Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Important notice -

In line with government guidance, our countryside space is open for local visitors to access for walks. Police regularly patrol the area to ensure compliance with legislation. Our cafe is serving only takeaway drinks, snacks and cakes.

A popular coastal hub, where the South Downs meet the sea

More about this place

Blackcap bostal white against the dusk on the South Downs

How to enjoy your local countryside 

Welcome to fresh air and open space. Our countryside spaces are currently open for people who live locally to exercise outside. This is in line with government guidance to: 'exercise with your household (or support bubble) or one other person, this should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area.' Local means 'stay in the village, town, or part of the city where you live'. We ask all visitors to follow guidance on social distancing to keep everyone safe.

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Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Things to see and do

Sunset at Birling Gap

Visiting Birling Gap - what you need to know 

If you are planning on visiting Birling Gap here are some things you need to know before you set off from home to help make your visit as enjoyable as possible.

Three people walk along the top of the magnificent Seven Sisters cliffs with distant views behind of sea , horizon, Birling Gap coastguard cottages and Belle tout lighthouse

Wonderful walking at Birling Gap 

Step out and enjoy big skies and coastal landscapes throughout the year. A perfect spot to enjoy big skies, seascapes, changing colours and quiet walks.

Dog walking on a lead

Walking your dog at Birling Gap 

The South Downs are a great place to walk your dog, so there's always somewhere near to you where you can enjoy this rich countryside throughout the year.

Crashing waves can increase the chance of cliff falls

Staying safe when visiting Birling Gap 

When visiting the coast stay away from the cliff edge and think about your safety and the safety of others. It isn’t safe to sit or stand close to the edge of the cliffs as they may be unstable or undercut in places.

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Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Eating

Woman holding takeaway hot drink

Refreshments at Birling Gap 

Our cafe at Birling Gap is serving a range of takeaway hot and cold drinks and pre-packed snacks. We've introduced new safety measures including closing seating areas, screens at till and collections points, and one way routes. We'll also only be accepting card payments. It is a legal requirement for face masks to be worn inside the cafe. We look forward to welcoming you back and know that you'll support us to make this a safe experience for everyone.

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Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Wildlife

Goldfinches on burdock

Winter wildlife at Birling Gap 

It may seem quiet but there is wildlife to be found during the winter at Birling Gap

Fulmar over the sea

Wonderful wildlife at Birling Gap 

It is the combination of a constantly changing landscape and unique geology that creates such an amazing diversity of habitats and wildlife at Birling Gap. Find out more about the wildlife of this incredible place.

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Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Our work

View through the Devils Dyke valley towards Saddlescombe Farm

The Changing Chalk partnership 

A partnership of 10 organisations has received initial National Lottery support for the Changing Chalk project. Made possible by National Lottery players, the partnership will work with local communities and landowners to connect people with nature and address challenges facing the Sussex Downs to protect this fragile chalk grassland landscape for future generations.

Panoramic view at sunset in August from Devil's Dyke, South Downs, West Sussex

South Downs sites we look after  

Discover the incredible diversity of countryside sites across the South Downs, from chalk grassland to river valleys, beech hangars and chalk cliffs.

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Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

History

A view of the coast guard complex at Birling Gap

History at Birling Gap 

Birling Gap and the surrounding area are a landscape and people rich in history. From prehistoric times right through to the 21st Century the area has always attracted settlement and community living.

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