Hike to Beachy Head
East Dean, United Kingdom
Details
Distance
5 miles
Elevation Gain
100 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Lewis Hackett
The tall, sheer white cliffs of the Seven Sisters are amongst the most iconic landscapes in the South of England. Traverse the Seven Sisters coastline via South Downs Way to reach Beachy Head which is a staggering 530 feet high. Will you dare to look over the edge?
There are various ways to access Beachy Head (the highest point) along the Seven Sisters. I recommend starting your hike at the Birling Gap National Trust Car Park but Beachy Head can be accessed at various points along Beachy Head Rd. From the Birling Gap National Trust Car Park (and Café) take a few minutes to walk south over to the staircase that provides access to the rocky beach and tide pools (at low tide). This staircase will also provide you with a marvelous view of the coastline looking both southeast and southwest. You may also notice a few terraced houses dangerously close to the edge when looking east. Many of these houses have been removed due to coastal erosion. Getting back to the hike, head north towards Beachy Head Rd. At the end of the car park you will notice a pathway to your right and a red phone box. Head east along this coastal pathway called South Downs Way. There are usually horses and ponies along this trail as well as excellent views of East Dean and the rolling hills (called the downs). Beware of cliff edges as they are unstable, very high, and there are little to no fences. After walking along this trail for about 1.5 miles you will reach Belle Tout Lighthouse. Continue heading east for about another 0.5 miles. You should start to see Beachy Head Lighthouse at the bottom of the cliffs (out to sea) on your right (this can only be accessed by boat). This general area is referred to as Beachy Head! However, you should also notice a large cliff extending further out which is the highest point along the coast (pictured). You may also notice numerous memorials on the edge as this (unfortunately) is Britain's most notorious suicide spot. If you wish, you can continue along this path for another 3 to 4 miles until you reach Eastbourne. There are excellent views of the town including the Eastbourne Pier from the coastal pathway.
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Hike to Beachy Head Reviews
If you want something easy to do then this is a good hike
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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