Seven Sisters Country Park
E Dean Rd., Seaford, England
Named after the seven towering chalk cliffs that run its shores, this Sussex spot sits where the South Downs meets the English Channel. Roughly 700 acres (280 hectares), it also comprises grasslands full of grazing sheep and the meandering Cuckmere River. Also home to plenty of winged and four-legged creatures, too, Seven Sisters is Britain’s nature at its best.
The basics
Beyond simply marveling at the unique coastline—the bright white chalk shimmers, particularly in the sunlight—visitors to Seven Sisters can paddle the Cuckmere River, hike or bike the park’s network of trails, watch for migrating birds, picnic along the cliffs, and stargaze. Plenty of day trips from Brighton combine the cliffs with South Downs National Park and natural highlights such as the Belle Tout Lighthouse and Devil's Dyke.
Things to know before you go
Seven Sisters Country Park isn’t open 24/7—mind the hours so you’re not locked in (or out of) the parking lot.
The visitor center has parking and restrooms, and sits about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the shore.
Bring water and snacks—the beach is a fabulous spot for a picnic.
How to get there
Seven Sisters Country Park sits between Seaford and Eastbourne. If you’re driving in, there are two parking lots (pay and display) at the visitor center; both open from 7am. If you don’t have wheels, buses run to the park from Brighton, Seaford, and Eastbourne and even from further along the coast—this is a popular place that’s easily accessible via public transit.
When to get there
Seven Sisters Country Park is a year-round spot, though open hours are reduced in winter, with facilities and parking lots typically closing around 6PM. Summer is the most popular season thanks to warm weather; if you’d prefer smaller crowds to deal with, visit from March–May and September–November and simply pack a jacket.
Inside South Downs National Park
In 2010, South Downs National Park technically took ownership of Seven Sisters Country Park, though make no mistake: Seven Sisters is the feather in South Downs’ cap. South Downs’ best views are the Seven Sisters—walk the trails from the visitor center to the beach, where you can wander from West Dean to Beachy Head, or even along the South Downs Way National Trail, which winds for 100 miles (160km) along the area’s scenic cliffs and ridges.
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