The Seven Sisters Hike Is Getting The TikTok Treatment

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.

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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

1. Always check the weather beforehand – on a very windy or rainy day the walk may not be safe.
2. Get an early start to make the most of the daylight hours.
3. 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. 
4. Wear hiking trainers or boots if you have them, but if not a pair of sturdy trail shoes or trainers will be fine.
5. Ensure you are fuelled for the hike with lots of snacks (think energy bars, sandwiches and nuts) and plenty of water.