The famous ‘Seven Sisters’ chalk cliffs in the South Downs, East Sussex, UK, on a beautiful afternoon

East Sussex – Chalk Cliffs, Downs, and Wealden Walking

Chalk headlands, rolling downs, and wooded countryside between the English Channel and the Weald

Clifftop coast, open chalk hills, and wooded ridges shape East Sussex, where walking routes cross the South Downs National Park and the High Weald National Landscape and follow the South Downs Way, linking places such as Eastbourne, Seaford, Lewes, Battle, Rye, and Hastings across headlands, river valleys, and low sandstone hills.

Much of the terrain is firm and moderately varied underfoot. Chalk paths, grassy ridgelines, woodland tracks, and field footpaths allow steady progress, with short climbs onto downland summits and gentler walking across farmland and valleys.

The landscape changes across the county. The coast is defined by white chalk cliffs and beaches around Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, while the central Downs form broad, open ridges with long views. To the north and east, the High Weald becomes more wooded and enclosed, with small fields, hedgerows, and quiet lanes.

Towns and villages are spaced along the coast and river corridors, creating practical start and finish points for both day walks and longer point-to-point routes.

Trails and Routes Through East Sussex

South Downs Way

A National Trail running along the chalk escarpment from Winchester to Eastbourne, passing through Lewes across the Downs.

1066 Country Walk

A long-distance route between Pevensey and Rye linking coastline, woodland, and historic inland villages.

Vanguard Way

Runs north–south between Croydon and Newhaven, crossing the Downs and the Weald through varied rural terrain.

Sussex Ouse Valley Way

Follows the River Ouse between Lewes and the inland countryside along level riverside paths and meadows.

Seven Sisters and Beachy Head paths

Clifftop walking along chalk headlands with continuous coastal views between Eastbourne, Birling Gap, and Seaford.

Walking Character

• White chalk cliffs and open headlands
• Rolling downland ridges
• Wooded Wealden countryside
• Riverside and farmland footpaths
• Historic towns and villages
• Moderate gradients with short climbs

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is East Sussex located?

East Sussex lies in South East England along the English Channel coast between Kent and West Sussex.

Are there protected landscapes here?

Yes. The county includes parts of the South Downs National Park and the High Weald National Landscape.

Are there long-distance routes here?

Yes. The South Downs Way, 1066 Country Walk, and Vanguard Way all cross the county.

Is the terrain steep?

Most routes involve moderate climbs on the chalk downs, with gentler walking across valleys and farmland.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring through autumn offers the best conditions, with dry chalk paths and clear coastal views.