From the natural beauty of Beachy Head to the towns of Bexhill and Brighton, there are many attractions and activities to see and do in the East Sussex county. Not to mention the South Downs, a range of chalk hills that cover a vast area of 620km2. Superb for walks, breathtaking views and even a spot of paragliding. Read on to find out more about this beautiful landscape and what makes this area a great little get away.
1) Beachy Head
During certain times of the year and day, depending on tides, you can walk out to to base of Beachy Head Lighthouse. It is quite a safe walk as long as you are switched on and only go as soon as low tide approaches. Here you can see a detailed plan of the route to the the lighthouse, taking approximately 1 hour or 2, with a distance of 2-3 miles.
This location is the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain at 162 metres above sea level. It is part of the South Downs Way National Trail, which stretches 100miles from Eastbourne to Winchester. Along this route is this spectacular view depicted below. Watch out for the 100mile annual race that takes place mid June.
We recommend this location if you want to see the sunset, for truly amazing views, and the pub that lies next to one of 2 car parks.
2) Birling Gap
One of the very few places you can reach the base of the Seven sisters cliff. Park up at the pay and display car park and head to the edge of the cliff just to the left when facing the cafe. Here you will find a metal staircase leading down the edge of the cliff, allowing you to walk along the bottom. this is one of the only spots that allows you to utilise the beach along this coastline. We made a packed lunch and settled down to enjoy the sunshine before heading off for a walk back along the top. It was beautiful and rather calm, a hidden gem. Far Quieter than many other beaches. Though- don't forget a towel or fold-able chair to take with you, sadly the pebbles aren't quite as comfy as sand.
Another thing not to forget is that there are no lifeguards present here. Note, water isn't the only danger at this location, the cliffs are made from chalk and limestone, thus prone to erosion far grater than other coastal areas therefore the eroding cliffs are dangerous to both those above and below. Signs present at the site suggest you stay at least 2 meters away if you fancy setting up a sunbathing spot.
On a calm waters day you'll find lots of paddle board enthusiasts, swimmers and kayakers.
You will also find amenities here such as an overflow car park, Birling Gap Cafe- open 11-4 and free toilets (sometimes an Icecream van too if you're lucky).
3) Belle tout lighthouse
Walk east along the coastal path from Birling Gap, or west for a longer walk from Beachy Head and you come across the Belle Tout Lighthouse. Built in 1832 it was moved back in 1999 to avoid it falling off the cliff after extensive erosion. Just over 20 years later it lies again only 20 metres from the cliff edge. This lighthouse is now a bed and breakfast that boasts 360 views of East Sussex. It is a perfect place to take in all that nature has to offer and a great pit stop for if you are walking several miles along the coastal path.
4) Brighton & Bexhill
The vibrant City of Brighton and Hove is full of thriving cafes, restaurants and shops. Walk along the seafront for food with a view. We would recommend Shelter Hall. It comprises of several food producers meaning there's a vast range of delicacies all under one roof. Prices are more on the expensive side but the food was beautiful. From the shore you will no doubtfully see the Brighton Pier, filled with donut stands and arcade games. When the hustle and bustle dies down the pier can be a wonderfully tranquil place. Oh and don't forget about The Lanes; nestled within main high streets, narrow lanes form the basis of independent eateries and shops galore.
If you're looking for a less busy town we would recommend Bexhill. With 2 miles of promenade you can enjoy a relaxing walk along the coast. Directly in the heart of the Promenade you will find The Colonnade, a cafe that serves everything from breakfast to bigger meals and also delicious vegan brownies. A short distance away are also free tennis courts and great fish & chips.
2 P's- Paddle boarding and Paragliding
Just inland of the East Sussex coastline lies the South Downs, as mentioned previously it stretches from Winchester through to Eastbourne. You can start a walk from many of the villages scattered below, e.g Firle and work your way up the hills to tremendous views. Or, you can opt to drive to the top of Firle Bostal Road. Many take advantage of this car park to take a stroll along the top looking out to see and across farmers fields. Towards Firle beaon to Bostal Hill (where lies another car park Bopeep bostal; BN26 6UH you may find several people park here, allowing a short distance walk to take part in recreational paragliding, soaring above you.
At Bexhill, Brighton and Eastbourne and dotted places between, you can take a dip or even bring your own paddle-board. Note: there isn't any to hire. There are many places to choose from, some quiet some busy and though my own findings-all are pebbled beaches. As mentioned previously, most areas here are not like the famous family holiday beach hot spots such as St Ives, Cornwall (another must see destination), where safety measures are in place and lifeguards are on standby. In some of these areas along the east coast there are no lifeguards nor flags marking if it safe to swim or not. to reduce the risk of danger we suggest you swim as the tide is coming in and do not go too far out if you are unfamiliar with tidal swells and sea swimming.
Socks and Sandals