The Seven Sisters Hike Is Getting The TikTok Treatment
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1 month ago
Is this the UK's most scenic walk?
First came the #hotgirlwalk, which saw TikTokers donning their best athleisure and heading out for a four-mile stroll while listening to an inspirational podcast. But now people are taking things one step further (literally) with a decidedly lengthier trending walk. Everyone is flocking to Seaford to have a go at the Seven Sisters hike, a coastal walk which has gone viral lately thanks to its dramatic views and easy access from London. Keen to give it a whirl? Here’s everything you need to know.
Seven Sisters Hike: Route, Difficulty & Tips
What Is The Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk?
The Seven Sisters hike is a walking route which runs from Seaford in Sussex to Eastbourne. One of the UK’s most popular day hikes, it involves walking across the Seven Sisters, a series of white sea cliffs on the English Channel coast – one of the most striking landscapes in southern England.
@greenfusilli the perfect hiking day at seven sisters cliffs 🐑 (only 1.5hrs from london!!) #sevensisterscliffs #southdownsnationalpark #daytripfromlondon #ukhiking #londondaytripideas ♬ Sweet Disposition FeelingBlew – Feelingblew
What Is The Route?
The full route is 21.2 km. Get the train to Seaford (if you’re coming from London, there are direct trains from Victoria), and head to the seafront to begin the hike. You’ll travel through Cuckmere Haven (where the river meets the English Channel) and along to the famous coastal hamlet of Birling Gap, before arriving at Belle Tout Lighthouse – which featured in the James Bond film, The Living Daylights. From here you’ll walk to Beachy Head Cliffs, Britain’s highest chalk sea cliff which boasts impressive views over the water, before a steep downhill walk to the seaside town of Eastbourne.
Is The Seven Sisters Walk Difficult?
The Seven Sisters walk is technically straightforward, however the distance and rolling ascents and descents bring a moderate challenge. The total elevation is 513 metres – there are a fair few hills which will get your heart rate up, but these are relatively short and a lot of the trail is flat.
How Long Does It Take?
The full route usually takes between five to seven hours. You can, however, make it shorter by just doing parts of the walk, such as Seaford to Birling Gap, or Birling Gap to Eastbourne.
Food & Drink
If you want to stop for lunch on the way, there are a few options:
- The Cuckmere Inn, Seaford
- Saltmarsh Rooms & Cafe, Seaford
- Birling Gap Cafe
- The Beachy Head, Eastbourne
Top Tips
- Always check the weather beforehand – on a very windy or rainy day the walk may not be safe.
- Get an early start to make the most of the daylight hours.
- Even if the weather looks alright, be prepared. Be sure to wear sun cream, particularly on sunny days, as you are very exposed to the elements up in the cliffs. Bring layers and a raincoat too, as it can be cold and windy at higher points in the trail.
- Wear hiking trainers or boots if you have them, but if not a pair of sturdy trail shoes or trainers will be fine.
- Ensure you are fuelled for the hike with lots of snacks (think energy bars, sandwiches and nuts) and plenty of water.
The Summer Essentials Guide
What does summer 2024 hold for you? Perhaps you’re jetting off on a sojourn to the south of France? Maybe you have a chic weekend in Lisbon on the cards? Or are you planning to stay on UK soil, soaking up the best of our seaside towns and peaceful pockets of countryside? Whatever trip you’re getting excited about right now, we’ve got you covered with our ultimate summer holiday essentials guide, created in partnership with Harvey Nichols. This includes ideas for what to pack based on your trip of choice, from stylish outfits and accessories to makeup and skincare to wine and snacks.
Summer Essentials Guide 2024
European Beach Holiday
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Long lunches by the sea, rosé-fuelled afternoons, sunset cocktails – what’s not to love about a sun-drenched week in a European beach town? Whether you’re sunning it up in Ibiza, Mallorca, Santorini or Sardinia, stay glamorous but cool in these summer looks, and don’t forget to keep your skin and hair suitably protected from the UV rays. Oh, and an extra bottle of Whispering Angel will never go amiss.
British Staycation
When the weather plays ball, there’s nothing like a trip to one of Britain’s most picturesque beach villages – from Cornwall’s dazzling riviera to the up-and-coming Margate. Or you could stick inland, soaking up the delights of the UK countryside with long walks and picnics. And if it rains, there are always endless cosy pubs to take refuge in.
City Break
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If you’ve only got a few days to spare, a city break can be the best way to make the most of your time. Hop on the Eurostar to Amsterdam to explore its buzzing culture scene and lively bars, or spend a long weekend eating your way around the charming tapas bars of Madrid. So what to pack? Think fashion-forward comfort so you can stroll the city with ease.
Wellness Retreat
Life can be exhausting, and sometimes all you need from a trip is some serious time out. That’s where wellness retreats come in, offering relaxation in spades – think yoga, sound baths, spa treatments and nourishing food, all amid the most tranquil of settings. The focus here is on me-time: load up your suitcase with luxurious skincare, healthy tea and comfy clothes for the ultimate relaxation break.
Road Trip
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There’s no better way to explore a region than by embarking on a road trip around its best spots. Whether you’re taking on Scotland’s famed North Coast 500, an epic adventure around America, or a cruise around the scenic Amalfi Coast, this packing list will ensure you drive in style (and stave off any mid-motorway hunger pangs).