Visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs from London | Day Trip Guide

Planning on visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs in the South Downs? Here is a guide to visiting the cliffs on a day trip from London.

Spoiler alert; if you love nature, epic views, and rolling hillsides, then the Seven Sisters Cliffs need to be at the top of your bucket list. No Joke.

Birling Gap Seven Sisters

The Seven Sisters Cliffs are a natural marvel on the shores of the English Channel. A calm oasis with much to explore, these cliffs make a great destination for a day trip from London.

This serene space is particularly perfect if youโ€™re looking to escape the city bustle and experience rural England.

After my recent visit to the South Downs and Seven Sisters, I wanted to give anyone looking to visit these stunning cliffs a rundown of what to expect.

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From how to go to Seven Sisters from London, the best viewpoints, and what to do, this guide has all the information youโ€™ll ever need. So youโ€™ll get to have a bump-free visit to the South Downs and Seven Sisters Cliffs from London.

Note: Planning a trip to the Big Smoke or looking for more information on this stunning city? Be sure to read my London travel tips.

What Youโ€™ll Need To Pack For This Day Trip

Best London to Seven Sisters Day Trip

If youโ€™re making the journey from London to the Seven Sisters, a tour is always a great option. That way, you donโ€™t have to deal with the stress of planning, and youโ€™ll get to learn about the attractions while experiencing them. Also, your guide might just know a few secret spots.

Beachy Head

Day Trip to Brighton and Seven Sisters | Best Seven Sisters Cliffs Day Tours from London

If youโ€™d prefer to relax and take in the incredible cliffs without planning or mapping, join this guided day trip of the Seven Sisters. I took this tour when I visited, and my guide Lawrence was terrific.

He lives in Brighton and has excellent knowledge of the stones that make up the chalk cliffs. He also discussed the actions that Seven Sisters Country Park is taking to re-introduce livestock into the valleys and help increase the UKโ€™s bee population.

He knows all the small villages in the area and where to find the best pubs, which came in handy. On this Seven Sisters tour from London, youโ€™ll learn about the areaโ€™s history while exploring the best of the national park and stopping at the most striking viewpoints.

Seven Sisters Cliffs Tour

We stopped at additional sights, such as the mysterious and ancient Longman of Wilmington, a huge Neolithic carving on the side of the Downs.

These are sights and things you would miss out on seeing if you visited on your own.

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Youโ€™ll be picked up in Brighton after a train trip from London (youโ€™ll initially be picked up at London Bridge Station). Youโ€™ll get to enjoy a comfortable journey in a luxury minivan with live commentary as you drive through the English countryside.

I think this tour is a great way to visit the Seven Sisters for non-walkers. It is particularly ideal for groups of friends that have a few days in London but would like to explore more than just the city. Or a solo traveller who doesnโ€™t know the area and is afraid they might get lost walking the Seven Sisters alone.

Trust me when I say one wrong trail could lead you to someplace totally different!

My favourite thing about this Seven Sisters tour is that you can do it with a group, which often allows you to appreciate your surroundings and experience even more.

If you donโ€™t have a full day to spend in the countryside, you can forgo the 10-hour trip and join a shorter one.

Seven Sisters Beach

Youโ€™ll stop at most of the same viewpoints in Seven Sisters Cliffs โ€“ thereโ€™ll simply be a little less time to spend at some of them.

What Are The Seven Sisters Cliffs?


The Seven Sisters are a range of chalk cliffs rising from the English Channel. They form part of the South Downs in East Sussex, situated between the towns of Seaford and Eastbourne in southern England. Youโ€™ll find these cliffs near London within the South Downs National Park.

Seven Sisters Cliffs View Points

How Did The Seven Sisters Cliffs Form?

The Seven Sisters were created when ancient rivers cut valleys into the chalk, creating seven peaks. Startlingly, the white chalk cliff faces contrast with the rolling green hills that they lead into. The white colour of the stone is due to the abundance of chalk that makes up much of the cliff face.

Seven Sisters cliffs views

The features came about in prehistoric times when the land was submerged, and seawater pushed the softer chalk to the surface. And, as the waters lowered, they exposed the cliffs visible today. Donโ€™t you love a day trip with a side of geology? No, only me then? OK.

Their unusual appearance has made them famous. Youโ€™ll see the mysterious-looking structures in various films, including Harry Potter and Atonement. 

The cliffs form part of the more magnificent chalk South Downs, which is sadly slowly being eroded by the ocean. In fact, the cliffs themselves drop a few inches every year.

Chalk by the ocean is such an unusual phenomenon. This is one of the only places in the world where you can find it. And this is why the Seven Sisters Cliffs are a magical place to visit.

Tip: Looking for more chalk cliffs near London? Have a look at my guide to the white cliffs of Dover.

Why Are the Cliffs Called Seven Sisters?


Are you wondering why itโ€™s called Seven Sisters cliffs? I know I was. The chalk cliffs are made up of seven distinct hilltops that sit side by side. So itโ€™s not hard to picture them as giant sisters of different ages, relaxing by the sea.

Seven Sisters cliffs all veiws

The actual origins of the name are unknown. Although, one story says that seven sisters had their houses nestled between each hill long ago.

Another account states that sailors once believed they looked like a group of seven nuns (called sisters), and the white chalk cliff faces were their wimples.

A different legend states that they are named after the original seven sisters, the Pleiades, the mythical daughters of the Titan Atlas.

There is, in fact, an 8th hill located in the Seven Sisters range, which is caused by erosion. But like most ugly sisters, it has not been recognised.

Personally, I prefer the third story; who doesnโ€™t want to be named after the daughters of a Greek god. Now you have an idea of why the Seven Sisters are called Seven Sisters.

Names of All the Seven Sisters Cliffs

The Names of All The Seven Sisters Cliffs


From West to East, the names of the seven sisters are:

  • Haven Brow
  • Short Brow
  • Rough Brow
  • Brass Point
  • Flat Hill
  • Baileyโ€™s Hill
  • Went Hill Brow

โ€˜Browโ€™ is an old term for a hill. So, I think we can agree that the old Brits were not as creative in naming the individual sisters as they were in naming the whole cliff face.

How to Get to Seven Sisters From London


If youโ€™re wondering how to get to the Seven Sisters cliffs from London, there are a few options available. You can rent a car and make the beachside trip on a scenic 2-hour drive from London. But, thanks to Englandโ€™s excellent public transport systems and fantastic day trip from London to Seven Sisters Cliffs deals, you donโ€™t have to

How to get to Seven Sisters Cliffs From London

Most peopleโ€™s favourite way of getting to Seven Sisters, UK from London is by train and then bus. If you choose the public transport route, you can take the train from London to Brighton, an hour away.

From there, you can take a bus, departing every 10-minutes, which will take you right to the Seven Sisters Country Park. While you can take the number 12 or 12a buses, I recommend the 12x โ€” Itโ€™s much faster!

From the bus stop, itโ€™s a 1.5 km walk through Seaford and the charming rural landscape before you reach the cliffs. Walking through this picturesque town is part of the experience, and youโ€™re sure to enjoy the quaint houses and little streets.

Seven Sisters cliffs views

We made the day trip with Beyond Brighton and took the train from London Bridge to Brighton. Then we went on a Brighton to Seven Sisters bus to the South Downs and Seven Sister Cliffs with a local guide

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WARNING โ€“ The cliffs are being naturally eroded, and there have been reports of cliff falls. This serves as a reminder that chalk cliffs are naturally unstable, and visitors should stay well away from the edge and the base of any cliffs.

Itโ€™s also extremely windy there, so if you are too close to the cliff edge, you might also lose your footing and fall. Donโ€™t risk your life getting too close to the edge of the cliff for a photo. Thatโ€™s just a dumb-ass way to die.

These are the various ways to how to go to Seven Sisters Cliffs from London.

Seven Sisters Cliffs Car Parking

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There are two pay and display car parks close to the Seven Sisters Country Park Visitor Centre โ€” the Forest Car Park and the Riverside Car Park. Closing times are displayed at the entrances.

To park at the Seven Sisters Country Park will cost:

  • Car: ยฃ3.00 for up to 2 hours and ยฃ4.00 for the day
  • Coach, minibus, and motorhome: ยฃ6.00 up to two hours and ยฃ12.00 for a full day
  • Motorbikes: Free

Read my guide to the Seven Sisters Cliffs car park for more details on the different types of vehicles that can park there and if you can book your parking for Seven Sisters in advance.


What to Expect From The Seven Sisters Cliffs

If youโ€™ve never been to Seven Sisters, expect gorgeous views, unique backdrops and salty ocean air.

Expect rolling fields and lovely pathways that crisscross the countryside. Expect to be so relaxed you wonโ€™t want to leave! I didnโ€™t want to. The place is absolutely gorgeous.

You wonโ€™t find restaurants or toilets along the cliffs, so expect that too. The best thing to do is to pack a lunchtime picnic and some snacks and enjoy it at your favourite viewpoint.

There is one toilet near the Belle Tout Lightroom, but thatโ€™s about it. Or you can just go in nature.

6 Best Viewpoints in Seven Sisters Cliffs Area


While not as famous as the Cliffs of Dover, the Seven Sisters are undoubtedly the most beautiful chalk cliffs in England near London.

There are plenty of places to enjoy the views from โ€“ but these viewpoints are the best. Pack a picnic and camera to enjoy at one of these spots and take plenty of photos.

Beachy Head

Beachy Head

Beachy Head is undoubtedly the most popular stop on the Seven Sisters walk. Beachy Head is Englandโ€™s highest chalk cliff, measuring 530 ft.

Immediately east of the Seven Sisters, this dramatic headland has beautiful views over the ocean and the Sisters. It has a darker side as a well-known suicide spot. But this is still one beautiful place to be.

If you approach the Seven Sisters from Eastbourne, youโ€™ll arrive here first. Otherwise, itโ€™ll be your last stop before you leave the cliffs behind.


Seaford Head Viewpoint

Seaford Head Seven Sisters

This is one of the classic views of the Seven Sisters. Coastguard cottages sit on the hillside, and the chalk cliffs glow in the background. You can even spend the night here, at Cuckmere Inn.

This was my favourite view as you get to see all seven cliffs beside each other. Itโ€™s something that you canโ€™t spot if you are looking down from Beachy Head.

Also, there were mainly locals walking around Birling Gap as not many visitors make it that far down to this Seven Sisters beach.

Birling Gap

Birling Gap Beach

Birling Gap is the lovely pebble beach below the cliffs. Stroll along the coast and look up at the towering white cliff face.

An enclosed beach with a dramatic backdrop, itโ€™s the perfect place to take a dip and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Youโ€™ll also find a nudist beach here, where you can go skinny dipping with the locals if thatโ€™s your kind of thing.

Hike Devils Dyke

Hike Devils Dyke

Turn from the cliffs to the green pastures of eery Devils Dyke. This deep valley is iconic. After all the white of the cliffs, itโ€™s a lovely change and well worth a short walk.

Footpaths take you through wooded valleys and green hills. The longest and widest valley in the country, itโ€™s classic pastoral England at its best!

If youโ€™re visiting England, this is an excellent opportunity to see this side of the modern country. And if youโ€™re from here, it feels like stepping back into the past. The โ€˜Devils Dykeโ€™ is the largest dry valley in the UK.

While visiting Devils Dyke, I saw many locals walking their dogs there and running through the valley, indicating that itโ€™s a local favourite.

South Downs Way

This long footpath has several incredible viewpoints of the Seven Sisters. Stroll along and enjoy the green pastures with the cliffs in the distance.

This area is particularly stunning if youโ€™re visiting from London in spring when much of the pastures are in bloom and the delightful aromas match the perfect views.

Hike Devils Dyke view

Belle Tout Lighthouse

A famous British landmark, this is the best shot you can get of the Seven Sisters England cliffs โ€“ with the lighthouse standing before them.

Itโ€™s featured in several films and has been watching over the cliffs and the ocean beyond since 1834.

Bel Tout means โ€˜everything beautiful,โ€™ and thatโ€™s certainly what you see from here.

The whole 14-metre-high lighthouse was moved to avoid coastal erosion in 1999. These days, you can even stay in the lighthouse, now a unique bed and breakfast. The lighthouse is right on Beachy Head.

So, be sure to include it when you stop at this viewpoint and get a photo or two with the famous lighthouse in the background. If you like this youโ€™ll also like my day trip to the white cliffs of Dover from London guide.

Belle Tout Lighthouse

Things to Do in Seven Sisters UK

Wondering what to do in Seven Sisters? Rather than commercialising the area to make money from the attraction, the landscape here is left untouched, peaceful, and beautiful. And thereโ€™s more Seven Sisters things to do here than simply taking in the stunning views โ€” though thatโ€™s enough to satisfy most who come here.

You can explore the area as it has been for hundreds of years and take in the natural beauty of Englandโ€™s coastline. Hereโ€™s how to visit Seven Sisters Cliffs.

Hike South Downs Way

One of Englandโ€™s 16 National Trails, South Downs Way, is a gorgeous 160 Km long trail. You can stroll along the cliff paths and further inland on the series of trails that lie entirely in the National Park.

Hike South Downs Way

People have been using these trails for thousands of years now and donโ€™t plan on stopping anytime soon.

With a striking landscape and the local wildlife to spot and enjoy on the route, thereโ€™s so much to see.

You donโ€™t need to hike the whole thing since itโ€™s very long, and youโ€™ll loop the same rough area a good deal of times. But an hour or two spent on the trails is terrific. Youโ€™ll be at one with nature.

The Seven Sisters Cliffs walk takes you through the charming countryside between the white Seven Sisters chalk cliffs and the historic city of Winchester.

You can find gorgeous little villages and classic British pubs, along with the wildlife and the stunning views.

Go Paddleboarding


Before visiting Seven Sisters, I didnโ€™t know that you could go paddle boarding there. The Seven Sisters Country Park is a brilliant place to take to the river on a stand-up paddleboard.

The water is calm for much of the year, and the views from the water are breathtaking.

Things to do in Seven Sisters Cliffs

The area also has some lovely lakes and the River Cuckmere, where first-timers and children will find it easier to stand up and paddle.

Both options lie within the National Park and are a fantastic way to spend an hour or two of your day trip. You can also rent kayaks if youโ€™d prefer to take in the sights in a more stationary, seated position.

For both kayaking and paddleboarding, you can choose to rent for an hour or two or take a quick course and guided tour. It all depends on what youโ€™re looking for out of the experience!

Relax on the Beach

On a sunny day, the Seven Sisters beach, which lies below and to the side of the cliffs, is the perfect place to relax and get a little sun.

Of course, youโ€™ll want to spend most of your beach day trip exploring. But a little time putting your feet up never hurts! Especially not with this view.

I am not going to lie; after reaching the cliffs and seeing views like this (even with their crazy breeze), all I wanted to do was just sit down, relax, and look out onto the sea.

Do the Seven Sisters Cliffs walk

You can approach the Seven Sisters Cliffs walk in a variety of ways. If youโ€™re just visiting for the view, stroll along one or two of the sisters.

Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the dramatic cliffs, take photos and breathe in the fresh sea air.

Seven Sisters Hiking Trails

Perhaps even better than the South Downs Way route, the Seven Sisters Walk keeps you close to the iconic cliffs.

You can also tackle the trail from the other side, starting in Eastbourne. But heading east along the path is considered the more scenic and beautiful way to approach the cliffs.

While walking along the cliffs, be sure to keep a five-metre distance between you and the precipice. Chalk is brittle, and itโ€™s been known to break off. So, youโ€™ll want to keep a safe space while still sticking close to the coast.

I did think about doing the walk alone. But after doing my research, keeping in mind that I get lost easily even with a GPS and canโ€™t read a map to save my life, I decided to take the smart route. I knew this wasnโ€™t going to be like travelling alone in London.

I chose to do a guided tour of Seven Sisters Cliffs, and I donโ€™t regret it. Best decision ever! So if you are not the best with directions or doing it alone and want to stay safe, I highly recommend going with a guide to Seven Sisters.

Is the Seven Sisters UK Walk Worth It?


This is a very worthwhile walk. The views are gorgeous, while the trail is relatively easy and not too strenuous.

The weather is often mild, and youโ€™ll pass cows and sheep peacefully at pasture. So, if youโ€™re looking to experience idyllic, rural England โ€”  cottages, villages and all โ€” this is the best way to do it.

Of course, the walk is not for everyone. It does take half the day (if you choose to do the full walk), and there is a decent amount of uphill walking. There is also minimal shade, so hot days can be difficult.

Still, I canโ€™t imagine ever regretting this walk.

I have written a more detailed guide of the Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk, if you are more interested in doing the Seven Sisters hike.

Visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs | Frequently Asked Questions

Below are a few frequently asked questions on visiting the Seven Sisters Cliffs near London.

Where to Stay Near Seven Sisters?

One of the best places to stay near the Seven Sisters is at Tiger Inn. This bed and breakfast features charming, traditional decor and is less than 30 minutesโ€™ walk from the cliffs, Belle Tout lighthouse, and Beachy Head.

What is the Best Time to Visit Seven Sisters Cliffs?

Spring and summer is the best time to visit the chalk cliffs. But Iโ€™ve written a detailed Seven Sisters weather guide on what to expect for every season when visiting these cliffs.

How Tall are The Seven Sisters Cliffs?

The Seven Sisters Cliffs Reach over 492 feet at its highest points, and are 656 feet above sea level.

How Difficult is the Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk?

The Seven Sisters walk is relatively easy to moderate. There are a few Seven Sisters hills that may challenge your calves and knees if youโ€™re not a regular hiker. But itโ€™s an overall moderate hike that you can enjoy at your own pace and distance.

Is Visiting Seven Sisters Cliffs Safe?

It is possible to safely visit the Seven Sisters Cliffs by staying at least five metres from the edge and sticking to designated paths. The chalk cliffs are dangerously brittle and constantly eroding. But, if you avoid the edge, you should be safe.

Can You Drive to Seven Sisters Cliff?

Yes, you can rent or drive your own car to Seven Sisters Cliffs, where youโ€™ll find parking spots at the entrance of the park. You can also park nearby at the โ€‹โ€‹Forest Car Park and The Riverside Car Park close to the Seven Sisters visitor centre.

How long is The Seven Sisters Cliff Walk?

The entire route, from Seaford to Eastbourne, takes between 6 and 7 hours and stretches for about 13 miles. Youโ€™ll spend most of the day on it, enjoying spectacular views of the dramatic landscape for the whole hike.

But there are many shorter routes that stretch for about 3-4 miles if youโ€™re short on time.

Visit Seven Sisters Cliffs From London Conclusion

A tour of the Seven Sisters Cliffs is the perfect peaceful break from the vibrant city of London. The white chalk cliffs make for some stunning photographs, and the peaceful atmosphere is incredible.

While it takes some time to get here, the whole trip is lovely, and I will definitely be revisiting Seven Sisters Cliffs soon.

South Downs Walk

There are few places in the world where you can see white chalk cliffs towering above the water, gorgeous ocean views, and rolling green pastures all in one place.

Thatโ€™s what makes a day trip to Seven Sisters from London so unique. I hope these tips help you plan your trip to Seven Sisters. If youโ€™re looking for more scenic coastal adventures, be sure to check out my guides to the top activities in Margate and Botany Bay in Kent.

Expect rolling fields and lovely pathways that crisscross the countryside. Expect to be so relaxed you wonโ€™t want to leave! I didnโ€™t. The place is absolutely gorgeous.

You wonโ€™t find restaurants or toilets along the cliffs, so expect that too. The best thing to do is to pack a lunchtime picnic and some snacks and enjoy it at your favourite viewpoint. 

There is one toilet near the Belle Tout Lightroom, but thatโ€™s about it. Or you can just go in nature.



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4 Comments

    1. Hi Meenal,

      No there is no uphill walking in the tour, here are some small hills but you can still get great from of the cliffs from the bases. How you enjoy the tour!

  1. Hi Donna -Kay,
    I really enjoy you travel website it gives me inspiration especially for travel within the UK. I am considering doing the one day guided tour – is it good value for money and is it a good idea to bring a packed lunch.
    Thank you

    1. Hi K,

      Glad you found my blog informative and is encouraging you to explore the UK. Yes, I encouraging doing the tour if you haven’t visited the area before, plus the guided day tour is lead by a knowledge guide who knows the area and will show you things that you would miss if you explore by yourself. The tour does stop at a family run farm which has a restaurant that sales sandwich tea, natural juices and pies but I would carry my own snack and water to have in-between stops. I hope this helps ????.

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