This hike takes us across the South Downs on a superb route, but it's tough and long and a brisk pace. It is a route we have devised ourselves and is a gem. You follow the hills, valleys and rivers of the South Downs on this hiking challenge which ends with gorgeous views of the Seven Sisters by the sea (please note, we do not hike the Seven Sisters). For much of the day you're high up on the South Downs hills and ridges, with far reaching views.
This is one of our longer day hikes from London and is only for experienced hikers. It's got quite a few long and steep hills.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Hiking high up on the South Downs ridges with some spectacular views
• Hike part of the famous South Downs Way
• Distant coastal views including the Seven Sisters cliffs
• Hike through dramatic Glacial “dry valleys”
• We will finish at Seaford on the beach
• A great physical challenge, for the fit and fast hikers who find Seven Sisters easy
HIKE DESCRIPTION
We start off in the historic town of Lewes which is a well preserved Sussex market town dating back to the 6th century. We're soon out on our rural trail that leads us into the rich tapestry of green landscapes, tranquility and breathtaking views of the area. Crossing the river Ouse and it’s beautiful valley, we make headway into the South Downs, going further into Britain’s newest National Park. Along our hike over several hills and ridges, we pass by the picturesque area of floodplains where the Cuckmere River pours into the English Channel, forming a beach estuary steeped in history.
Our trail rewards us with a good few reminders of how close to the sea we are here with gorgeous views of the Channel on a clear day and also the legendary Seven Sisters coastal cliffs. We finish in the coastal town of Seaford which is home to a Martello Tower from 1810 which formed part of a string of 103 towers to defend against French invasion in Napoleonic times.
MEETING POINT
Victoria station 8:15am, leave at 8:30am for the 8:54am train. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - MAP
Planned arrival back into London is 7:36pm (you are committed until then)
GUIDE - GRAHAM 07796 098487 (only for use during the hike) ABOUT US
FOOD - Bring a packed lunch and hike snacks, it's a long hike
DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY
Distance: 19 miles (30km)
Grading: Challenging
Ascent: 550m
Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours
COST & PAYMENT
£33 plus Eventbrite fee they charge including the guided hike and return train travel, click “Attend” to join.
Payments are refundable upto 7 days in advance, after that they are non refundable and non transferrable.
WHAT TO BRING
• Hiking clothes & footwear - ideally hiking boots. Hat & gloves if cold, waterproof jacket & trousers KIT LINK
• Water (2 litres)
• Lunch
• We arrange train tickets and logistics, so just turn up and have a great day 😁
SAFETY - Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider
Instagram 📸
Day hikes list 👣
Calendar - All trips 📖
Facebook page & Photos group
TERMS AND CONDITIONS - By signing up or attending you agree to these
