OVERVIEW

A stunning circular walk on the East Sussex coast, taking in the Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters along a section of the South Downs Way, with epic views of the ocean.

We will meet on the coast, at the Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters National Trust Car Park where we will start the walk, making our way inland to the picturesque village of East Dean. We’ll take a break here around halfway, where we can stop for a drink at the Tiger Inn. Heading back out to the coast, we’ll reach Belle Tout Lighthouse at Beachy Head for a collective breath of sea air. We’ll walk along the chalk cliffs before finishing back at the cafe where we started.

GATHER

After the walk, there will be an option to stay on to have lunch together at the Birling Gap National Trust Cafe at your own cost and discretion. Tables will be first-come-first-serve on the day.

DATE

Sunday, 18th May 2025

MEET POINT

Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters National Trust Car Park at 9.45am (please arrive earlier if you need to make time to park and use facilities. The car park at this venue tends to get extremely busy on weekends.)

WALK START

10am

FINISH POINT

Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters National Trust Car Park

WALK DURATION

2.5 - 3 hours (approx)

DISTANCE

6.47 km

TOTAL ASCENT

110 m

TERRAIN

Hiking paths with a steep-ish start, before undulating hills for the rest of the walk.

ROUTE MAP

View or download the full route profile here.

ACCESSIBILITY

Unfortunately this walk is not wheelchair friendly.

PARKING

Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters National Trust Car Park. Please visit the National Trust website for visitor information.

FACILITIES

Toilets are available at the start/finish point at the Birling Gap Cafe and at the halfway stop at Tiger Inn (customers only). Accessible toilets are available at both sites.

WALK LEADER

Katy Beechey - M2M Volunteer and Life Coach specialising in Clarity & Change

BRING

Good walking footwear (walking boots or outdoor trainers), warm layers, a waterproof, snacks to keep you going and a bottle of water.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• A guided walk led by a trained Together Outdoors Volunteer and Life Coach
• A safe, welcoming space to connect with others and share your story (without any pressure to do so), whilst being guided and supported by an experienced coach
• A group environment of both emotional safety and lighthearted fun!
• An opportunity to connect with beautiful natural surroundings
• A chance to boost your endorphins and connect mind & body with physical exercise

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

• Travel to the meeting point or individual travel organisation
• Food/drink during or after the walk
• Mental health crisis support (please seek urgent help via the NHS website if you are in need)
• Walking equipment (we can however recommend Kitsquad, who can support you with kit if you are on a low income)

FAQS

Are dogs welcome? 

• Yes, as long as they are well trained and kept on a lead.

Can I join if I’m not the fastest walker?

• Absolutely! Together Outdoors is about community, not competition. We always look out for each other and only move as fast as the slowest person. If the group is large, it may spread out naturally. Breaks will always be factored in to keep everyone moving as closely as a group as possible.

COST

Optional - by donation

We are committed to providing free events where possible to our community, as we believe financial barriers shouldn't stand in the way of participation. If you are in a position to make a donation, your contribution will help support someone else who is more in need.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, please email [email protected]