Life on the edge - Discover the hidden secrets of Birling Gap
Join us on this free, guided, 45 minute tour to discover the history and future of Birling Gap, as it succumbs to the insatiable appetite of the sea.
- Booking not needed
- Free event
Starting from the garden we walk back in time to discover more about the Birling Gap Hotel and how it has changed over the last century. The walk then proceeds to the viewing platform where we discuss the Seven Sisters, coastal erosion and learn more about how the National Trust acquired the land. We then move on to the cottages, lean into your imagination as we hear the stories of the Coastguard and smuggling. From here we head to the entrance, pausing at the foot of Lookout Hill. The round tour takes us back to the garden via the foundations of the old bungalow and golf course - Please note the tours will run every weekend but are dependent on the weather. If in doubt do call in advance to confirm it is taking place on the day.
Times
The basics
- Suitability
Suitable for children aged 12+ accompanied by an adult.
- Meeting point
Meet in the garden behind the café next to the tour sign.
- What to bring and wear
This local tour is predominately around the perimeter of the building and boundary of the car park and is on uneven ground, bring suitable footwear and clothing for the location.
- Accessibility
The tour takes place around the building and perimeter on uneven paths and shingle. Suitable for buggies and all terrain wheelchairs.
- Other
Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Upcoming events
Plant Fair
From silver ragwort to wild mint, chilli's to runner beans, there will be something for everyone at our first Birling Gap plant sale.
Squire, Parson and Shepherd - People of the Downs
Our second guided walk takes us on a journey through people’s lives on the Downs.
RAF Friston – Spitfires and Spies (D-Day Commemoration)
Join us on this guided walk to learn about the history of RAF Friston and how it grew from an emergency airstrip into a front-line fighter station during WW2. We commemorate 80 years since D-Day.
Coastguards, Smuggling and Shipwrecks
"Brandy for the parson, baccy for the clerk”. Join us for this guided walk and hear about tales of smuggling at Crowlink and about the history of the Coastguard station.