Seven Sisters Tour: Hidden Coastal Gems & South Downs
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Overview
The Seven Sisters Coastal Tour showcases the stunning beauty of the English coast, only a short drive from Brighton. This relaxed and flexible tour takes visitors to hidden spots along the coast that larger tours often miss. Travel in a luxury Mercedes mini-bus, with convenient pick-up from hotels or Airbnbs in Brighton. For travelers coming from London, pick-up is available from the Brighton train station.
Expect a day of exploration through local historic villages and breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters cliffs. An experienced guide will be on hand to answer questions and share insights. The tour is customizable, adapting to the group's interests along the way. Travelers will venture into the narrow roads of the South Downs villages, discovering places like Devil's Dyke, Seaford Beach, and the iconic Seven Sisters Cliffs viewpoint at Seaford Head. Other stops include the Belle Tout Lighthouse, the charming Tiger Inn in East Dean, a local beer brewery and cafe, and the unique perspective of the Seven Sisters Cliffs from sea level. The journey also includes visits to the Wilmington Yew Tree, Chyngton Barn (the Smallest Church in Sussex), Rathfinny Wine Estate, and the Long Man of Wilmington.
The tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi and light refreshments. Bottled water is provided, along with convenient drop-off and pick-up at your hotel or Airbnb within Brighton. Alcoholic beverages and lunch are not included.




Highlights
Luxury Transport: Travel comfortably in a Mercedes mini-bus with hotel pick-up.
Hidden Gems: Discover coastal spots that larger tours miss.
Expert Guide: Learn about the history and beauty of the Seven Sisters.
Customizable Tour: Tailor the route to suit your interests.
Sentiment Analysis
The Seven Sisters Coastal Tour is highly praised for its personalized experience, stunning views, and knowledgeable guide. While lunch isn't included and some desire more time at certain locations, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.

Customers say the tour guide is knowledgeable and friendly.
Visitors love the comfortable transportation and small group size.
Many reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and hidden gems.
Customers appreciate the flexibility and customization of the tour.
Some reviewers mentioned that lunch is not included.
A few customers wished for more time at certain stops.
The Journey
Devil's Dyke
Devil's Dyke, a dramatic 100-meter deep V-shaped valley, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Sussex countryside. Formed over 14,000 years ago by solifluction and river erosion during the last Ice Age, this natural wonder has captivated visitors for centuries. Explore the history of this area, once a popular Victorian attraction in the mid-1800s. Walk along the dyke's edge and imagine the ancient forces that shaped this striking landscape. Perfect for hiking and experiencing a truly unique natural formation.
Seaford Beach
Seaford Beach presents a classic example of coastal management, where the relentless movement of shingle demands constant human intervention. Witness the ongoing efforts to protect the town from erosion and flooding. Observe the heavy machinery at work, redistributing pebbles around structures like the Terminal Groyne to counteract longshore drift. A testament to the ongoing battle between nature and human endeavor, Seaford Beach showcases the challenges of preserving coastal communities.
Seven Sisters Cliffs Viewpoint at Seaford Head
Seaford Head Nature Reserve offers the best panoramic view of the iconic Seven Sisters Cliffs, rising majestically from the sea. Overlooking the undeveloped Cuckmere Estuary, this nature park teems with rare plant, bird, and insect species, offering a rich conservation experience. Enjoy peaceful walks with the breathtaking backdrop of the Coastguard Cottages, Seven Sisters Cliffs, and the serene Cuckmere River Valley. A must-see for nature lovers and photographers seeking unparalleled coastal scenery.
Belle Tout Lighthouse
The Belle Tout Lighthouse, perched dramatically on the cliffs, offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. Constructed in 1834, the lighthouse was meticulously positioned to warn sailors of the dangers lurking offshore, its light visible for 20 miles. Take the recommended 20-minute walk along the cliffs to Birling Gap and experience the same views that guided ships for generations. This historic landmark is a testament to the ingenuity and dedication of lighthouse keepers, providing a captivating window into the past.
Tiger Inn, East Dean
Step back in time at the Tiger Inn, a charming village pub in East Dean with a history stretching back to the 15th century. Reputedly a former haunt of smugglers, this historic inn exudes character and warmth. Enjoy a hearty country pub lunch or a quick drink amidst the rustic ambiance. This is a place to savor fine ales, wines, and food, while soaking in the atmosphere of a traditional English pub, steeped in tales of smugglers and local lore.
Local Beer Brewery and Cafe
Discover the local flavors of Sussex with a visit to a local beer brewery and cafe. Sample handcrafted beers brewed with locally sourced ingredients, and relax in a cozy setting. This is a great opportunity to experience the region's thriving brewing scene and enjoy a refreshing break during your exploration of the South Downs.
Seven Sisters Cliffs from Sea Level
Experience the awe-inspiring Seven Sisters Cliffs from a unique perspective by walking along the beach at their base. Capture stunning photographs of these majestic chalk cliffs towering above the sea. Stop at the visitors center for refreshments and information about the area's natural history. This immersive experience offers a profound appreciation for the scale and beauty of these iconic landmarks.
Wilmington Yew Tree
Visit the ancient yew tree in the churchyard of Wilmington, estimated to be 1600 years old. With a trunk girth of 23 feet, this venerable tree stands as a silent witness to centuries of history. Explore the charming Downland village of Saxon origin and the adjacent Wilmington Priory, founded around 1200. The yew tree is a powerful symbol of longevity and resilience, providing a connection to the deep roots of this historic landscape.
Chyngton Barn (Smallest Church in Sussex)
Discover the enchanting Chyngton Barn church, one of the smallest churches in England and the smallest in Sussex. Nestled in a peaceful rural setting, this charming church replaced a larger structure destroyed by fire and dates back to the 13th century. The churchyard offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. A serene and intimate place of worship, it is a hidden gem well worth the 15-20 minute walk from Alfriston.
Rathfinny Wine Estate
Indulge in a complimentary tasting at Rathfinny Wine Estate, dedicated to producing some of the world's finest English sparkling wines. Situated on a sun-drenched south-facing slope in the South Downs, the estate's unique climate, chalk soil, and aspect create the perfect conditions for growing premium grapes. Tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and savor the exquisite flavors of Sussex sparkling wine in the cellar door shop. This is a must for wine enthusiasts seeking a taste of English excellence.
The Long Man of Wilmington
Marvel at the enigmatic Long Man of Wilmington, a colossal figure etched into the steep slopes of Windover Hill. The origins and meaning of this ancient figure have baffled historians and archaeologists for centuries. Is it a prehistoric fertility symbol, a Roman warrior, or an 18th-century folly? Despite the mystery, the Long Man remains a captivating landmark and a powerful symbol of the region's rich and layered past. Discover the enduring allure of this extraordinary figure.
The Star Inn, Alfriston
Step inside The Star Inn in Alfriston, one of the most iconic buildings in the village. Originally built in the 14th century as a religious hostel, this historic inn transformed into a popular gathering place by the 18th century. Rumored to have been a base for smugglers, The Star Inn is steeped in local legend and intrigue. Experience the timeless charm of this historic landmark and imagine the tales of smugglers that once echoed within its walls.
St. Andrew's Church, Alfriston
Explore St. Andrew's Church in Alfriston, a magnificent example of 14th-century parish architecture. Often called the "Cathedral of the South Downs," this church was built all at once, creating a spacious and open feel with soaring arches. Unusually, the six bells are rung from the centre of the church – one of less than twenty in the country. Located near the Cuckmere River and the Old Clergy House, St Andrew’s stands as a testament to the skill of medieval craftsmen.
Ye Olde Smugglers Inn (Market Cross)
Delve into the murky past at Ye Olde Smugglers Inn, also known as the Market Cross, a historic inn said to have been a meeting place for smuggling gangs. With a labyrinthine layout featuring six staircases, twenty-one rooms, forty-eight doors, and numerous hiding places, this inn is steeped in intrigue. Experience the atmosphere of a bygone era and imagine the clandestine activities that once unfolded within its walls. A true gem for those seeking a taste of local history and folklore.
Sightseeing Around Alfriston Village
Take time to wander through the charming village of Alfriston, steeped in history and surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the South Downs. Explore the quaint streets lined with historic buildings, browse the local shops, and soak in the atmosphere of this quintessential English village. Alfriston offers a delightful escape from the everyday and a chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of rural Sussex.
Vintage Fashion Shopping
Indulge in a unique shopping experience by exploring the vintage fashion scene in the area. Discover one-of-a-kind treasures and stylish finds from bygone eras. Whether you're a seasoned vintage enthusiast or simply looking for something different, the local vintage shops offer a treasure trove of fashion history and individual style.
The Bookshop, Alfriston
Step into a world of literary delights at The Bookshop in Alfriston, a charming two-story shop featuring new books alongside vintage, antiquarian, and secondhand volumes. Set in a former builder's yard, the compound boasts a book-filled shepherd's hut and a bower overflowing with bargain paperbacks. A must-visit for book lovers, this unique bookshop offers a treasure trove of literary gems in a picturesque setting.
The George Inn, Alfriston
Experience the timeless charm of The George Inn in Alfriston, first licensed in 1397. With foundations dating back to 1250, this splendid flint stone and half-timbered building is rumored to have a network of smugglers' tunnels leading from its cellars. Relax in the bar with its impressive inglenook fireplace, oak floors, and Sussex hop bines. Enjoy good quality food in the large garden or on the heated terrace. A truly historic and atmospheric pub.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with onboard Wi-Fi, as well as bottled water and light refreshments. You'll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel or Airbnb within Brighton. Please note that alcoholic beverages and lunch are not included. Travelers coming from London will be picked up from the Brighton train station.
Hot Tip
Customers recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking and bringing a jacket, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable. Many suggest packing snacks to enjoy between stops and taking advantage of the onboard Wi-Fi to share photos with friends and family. Also, be sure to have your camera ready for the scenic views!