Seven Sisters Cliffs Loop

The Seven Sisters loop is the most photographed run on the South Downs for good reason: rolling chalk cliffs, the meander of the Cuckmere, and big open sky the whole way.

The route

Start at Seaford seafront and climb up onto Seaford Head — the first big view back over the town and across to the cliffs. Drop down to Cuckmere Haven, cross the valley, then take on the Seven Sisters themselves: seven (well, eight) chalk humps that will test your legs.

At Birling Gap you can stop for water and a café before turning inland through Friston Forest and following the Cuckmere valley back to Seaford.

Practical notes

• Terrain: grass and chalk paths, no technical sections, but the repeated cliff climbs add up.
• Exposure: almost no shade and very exposed in wind — check the forecast.
• Water: Birling Gap (roughly halfway) is the only reliable refill.
• Safety: stay well back from the cliff edge — the chalk erodes constantly.

Make a weekend of it

Pair this with a race from the events calendar or stay nearby — see accommodation options at Seaford and Eastbourne.