Image shared for Seven Sisters Birling Gap and Friston Forest Circular
Coastal Circular

Seven Sisters Birling Gap and Friston Forest Circular

East Sussex

Distance
7.9 mi
Est. time
3h 40m
Difficulty
Medium
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PaulWalkmates Route by PaulWalkmates

About this walk

The Seven Sisters Birling Gap and Friston Forest Circular is a beautiful 12.7 km (7.9 miles) circular walk near Eastbourne, East Sussex, which takes around three and a half hours to complete at a moderate pace. The route is popular among hikers, campers, and mountain bikers alike, especially between March and October, so expect some company on your journey.

The trail begins dramatically, tracing the iconic chalk cliffs known as the Seven Sisters, which rise majestically above the English Channel. This first section is particularly breathtaking, offering spectacular views along the undulating cliff edges. Be prepared, though: this stretch can be demanding, with repeated ascents and descents, and paths can get slippery during wet conditions. Good footwear with strong grip is essential.

After Birling Gap, where there’s a convenient National Trust car park, cafe, and toilets, the trail gently transitions inland through charming fields, rural farmland, and delightful Sussex hamlets. Eventually, you'll enter Friston Forest, where tranquil woodland paths lead you beneath the trees, providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere as you near the end of the route.

With its superb blend of dramatic coastal cliffs, picturesque countryside, and calming forests, this circular walk truly showcases the diverse beauty of East Sussex. It’s perfect whether you're looking for adventure, scenic photography, or simply a rewarding day spent in nature. Dogs are also welcome, provided they remain on a lead.

Walk details

County
East Sussex
Main location
Birling Gap
Nearby towns
Birling Gap , East Dean , Westdean , Exceat , Friston
Walk type
Circular
Category
Coastal
Distance
7.9 mi (12.7 km)
Est. time
3h 40m
Explorer
Yes, off the beaten track

Route map

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Along the route

16 places
Drinking Water
Essentials · 0.0 mi along
Toilets
Essentials · 0.0 mi along
Went Hill
Cliff · 0.4 mi along
Bailey’s Hill
Cliff · 0.7 mi along
Flat Hill
Cliff · 1.0 mi along
Flagstaff
Cliff · 1.1 mi along
Brass Point
Information · 1.5 mi along
Rough Brow
Cliff · 1.8 mi along
Short Brow
Cliff · 1.9 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 3.7 mi along
Viewpoint
Navigation · 3.8 mi along
Tiger Inn
Pub · 6.7 mi along
Went Hill
Peak · 7.3 mi along
Parking
Essentials · 7.9 mi along
Cafe
Food and drink · 7.9 mi along
Drinking Water
Essentials · 7.9 mi along

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Can I walk this route on my own?

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How do I confirm plans with the group?

Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.