Beachy Head: Hiking the Seven Sisters Trail

 

The Seven Sisters Trail is a breathtaking coastal path along the South Downs in England, known for its rolling chalk cliffs and stunning seascapes. One of the most famous and dramatic points along this trail is Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. Its stark beauty hides dark history, as Beachy Head has long been a place where people tragically take their own lives. The cliff's dark reputation as a site of suicides contrasts with the natural beauty that surrounds it, making it a place of both reflection and awe.

There’s something incredibly fulfilling about starting your day with such an adventure, especially in a place as stunning as the Seven Sisters Trail. It’s a journey of physical endurance, but also one of mental clarity, as you find yourself surrounded by nothing but the raw beauty of nature.

 

I began my hike early in the morning, starting from the charming town of Eastbourne. It was around 7:45AM, with the sun just fully rise over the calm sea. I had left home at 6:30 AM, eager to enjoy the trail before it became too crowded. There’s something incredibly peaceful about being one of the first on the trail, breathing in the crisp morning air and watching the world slowly come to life. Plus, there's the practical side—no trouble finding parking, and the sea is usually at its most serene in the early hours, with no wind disturbing the surface.

 

The trail itself is categorized as moderate. It’s a bit of a workout, as it involves plenty of up-and-down walking along the cliffs. Though the landscape may seem similar at first glance, a keen eye will notice the subtle changes in scenery. Each section of the trail offers something new—a different angle of the cliffs, varying colours in the sea, or unique wildlife along the way.

 

As I walked, I could see Eastbourne in the distance, its typical English seafront dotted with Victorian architecture. It was a beautiful sight to have in the background as I made my way towards Beachy Head.

 

Along the way, I stopped at a café near the famous Beachy Head stretch. It’s a convenient place for a quick restroom break, a coffee refill, or even a full English breakfast if you're feeling hungry. I properly fuelled up before my hike with a hearty bowl of porridge, topped with chia seeds and walnuts, so I felt totally energising despite early morning.

 I covered 6.5 miles one way and then retraced my steps back, totalling a solid 13-mile hike. By the time the trail started getting busy with other hikers, I was already on my way back to the car, ready to continue with my road trip….

The freedom of traveling #goWest

Much love,  Magda West