Visiting Birling Gap safely

How to enjoy your day safely

The Seven Sisters chalk cliffs are constantly changing. This creates the iconic coastline that you see today. Cliff falls and landslides are therefore part of this landscape and can happen at any time and without warning.Our white cliffs are beautiful but also very fragile. They may appear safe to stand on, but chalk is a soft rock that can be become unstable through heavy rain, frost, sun or undercut by wind and wave action. The sea comes in and out twice a day and often reaches the base of the cliffs. Make sure you can always safely exit the beach keeping platform steps in sight. Use the Tide Times to see when the sea will be at its highest to help plan your visit.

• Stay at least 5m back from the cliff edge at all times
• Stay at least 5m back from the base of the cliffs at all times
• Check the tide times which shows you when the sea will be at its highest and always keep the beach steps in sight

Other things to consider when planning your day

The beach has no lifeguard provision so do consider sea state, wind direction and strength, cliff fragility, underwater currents and obstructions that cannot be seen when planning activities on the beach

When exploring the sandy beach or rock pooling, always wear suitable footwear. Small fish called weavers lay under the sand with spines pointing up that can cause a nasty sting to unsuspecting feet

Accessing help and support

There is support available if you are feeling vulnerable or simply need to talk. The Samaritans have a 24 hour free helpline on 116 123. Alternatively visit the NHS website for more help and support options. If it is an emergency please call 999. There is a phone box in the car park next to the Coastguard Station.