Skip to content
Search
Donate
back to Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Exploring Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Woman walking her dog on the beach, with chalk cliffs behind, at Birling Gap, East USsex
Walking on wet sand at Birling Gap | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra

Birling Gap is a popular coastal hub, where the South Downs meet the sea. It’s part of the world-famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. From walking on 500 acres of ancient downland to spotting wildlife and exploring rock pools below towering cliffs of chalk, there is plenty to see and do whilst you soak up the spectacular, unspoilt views of the sea.

Exploring the beach 

After high tide, the sea leaves behinds traces of the plants and creatures that call it home, such as cuttlefish bones, shells and seaweed. Keep an eye out for unusual-looking pebbles among the flints for fossils of ancient sea creatures or plants. 

Walking on the South Downs 

Whether walking the dog, walking off lunch or walking the 100 miles of the South Downs Way, whatever your reasons for stepping out on the South Downs from Birling Gap, there’s a route for you to enjoy. Pull on your walking boots and take to the paths, keeping an eye out for the animals grazing around you.

Livestock

The different types of livestock on the downs are doing essential conservation work, eating the tougher grasses and encroaching scrub. This allows the more delicate habitats such as chalk grassland and heathland to thrive and survive. 

People and dogs on wet sand at the beach, with chalk cliffs behind, at Birling Gap, East Sussex
Walking on wet sand at the beach at Birling Gap, East Sussex | © National Trust Images/Arnhel de Serra
A sunny view across the blue sea with cottage roofs in the foreground and the white chalk cliffs of Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters in the distance

Discover more at Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Find out how to get to Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters, where to park, the things to see and do and more.

Plan your visit

You might also be interested in

Visitor carrying a tray of coffee and cake in the cafe at Llanerchaeron, Wales
Article
Article

Eating and shopping at Birling Gap 

Find out about eating and shopping at Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters. Stop for refreshments with a view and browse for local souvenirs in the cliff-top shop.

A close-up of a border collie dog standing on a rock at the Lake District
Article
Article

Visiting the South Downs with your dog 

Find out about bringing your dog to the South Downs. Explore the beautiful landscape together, from cliff-tops and beaches to ancient downland.

White chalk cliffs and the beach at Birling Gap, East Sussex
Article
Article

Shifting shores at Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters 

Read about the changing coastline at Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters and discover how the National Trust is planning for the future in this changing landscape.

Skimming stones on the beach at Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire
Article
Article

‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities to do at the beach 

Try out the ‘50 things to do before you’re 11¾’ activities children can enjoy by the sea, from paddling or swimming, to catching crabs and skimming stones.

Visitors kayaking on the sea past the Old Harry Rocks, Purbeck Countryside, Dorset
Article
Article

Staying safe while canoeing 

While canoeing and kayaking are great ways to experience nature and keep fit, they can be dangerous if you don't follow the guidelines. Learn how to stay safe with our advice and guidance.

Two visitors walk along the coastal path at the White Cliffs of Dover, with the man carrying a young child on their back. They're wrapped up in winter coats and the ocean can be seen behind them in the background.

Coast and beaches 

Discover the 780 miles of beautiful coastline in our care. Plan your next coastal adventure, whether you want to explore soft, sandy beaches or rugged, windswept cliffs.