Become a member
Join today and help protect nature, beauty and history – for everyone, for ever. Enjoy access to more than 500 places with National Trust membership.
Cuckmere Valley
Flower-rich chalk grassland with stunning views of the Cuckmere River
East Sussex, BN26 5TT
Opening times for 22 May 2025
Asset Opening time Countryside Dawn - Dusk MTWTFSS282930123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930311OpenPartially openClosedFree car parking at Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve, High and Over (also mobility parking) and the Golden Galleon in Exceat (customers only). Toilets and mobility toilet at Seven Sisters Car Park. Dogs are welcome, but must be kept on leads where signs indicate.
- By road
For Chyngton take the A259 which links Eastbourne to Seaford and passes through Exceat. For sat nav use BN25 4JQ.For Frog Firle Farm take the B2108 (Alfriston Road) between Seaford (A259) and Alfriston (A27). For sat nav use BN26 5TT
- On foot
The Cuckmere Valley lies on the Vanguard Way, a long-distance footpath that begins in Croydon and ends at Newhaven, and is also near the South Downs Way, which runs from Winchester to Eastbourne. A variety of other footpaths lead to the Cuckmere Valley from other directions. The valley is 3 miles from the centre of Seaford and the station. Alfriston is on the Cuckmere river 5 miles from the coast at Cuckmere Haven, 1 mile from the edge of Frog Firle and 2 miles from High and Over.
- By train
Seaford 3.5 miles (from High and Over), Berwick 4 miles
- By bus
The number 12, 12A and 12B buses run all year between Brighton and Eastbourne these stop at Exceat for access to Chyngton farm and the 12A stops at Milberg Road, Seaford for access to Frog Firle Farm. The Cuckmere Valley Ramblerbus number 47 stops at High and Over car park for access to Frog Firle Farm and Cradle Valley.
Planning your visit
Article
Visiting the South Downs with your dog
Find out about bringing your dog to the South Downs. Explore the beautiful landscape together, from cliff-tops and beaches to ancient downland.
Highlights
Cuckmere Valley
Cuckmere Valley is a haven for wildlife, from over-wintering wildfowl to colourful wild flowers and salt marsh plants. Admire stunning views of the iconic Seven Sisters stretching away into the distance.
Cradle Valley
Cradle Valley is a wonderful example of this species-rich chalk grassland, attracting rare and colourful butterflies and plants in summer.
High & Over
High and Over's dramatic river cliff has been carved out of the soft chalk by the river below. In 1836 a white horse was cut into the chalk on the steep scarp and it remains a popular natural attraction.
Chyngton Farm
Chyngton Farm was ploughed for food during World War II and artefacts, like anti-tank traps, pill boxes and bunkers, are still visible today.
Things to see and do
Article
Things to see and do at Cuckmere Valley
Discover what to see and do at Cuckmere Valley. Follow one of the walking routes along the river, look for signs of the past in the landscape and soak in the views.
Top trails
Trail
Hill and vale walk at Frog Firle Farm
Looping over Cradle and Hindover Hills, this walk takes in great views of secluded Sussex farmland, as well as a diversion to the quaint village of Litlington.
Trail
Seascapes and saltmarsh trail at Cuckmere Valley
Enjoy the sweeping views to the sea, over the South Downs and northwards towards the Weald on this scenic Cuckmere Valley walking trail.
Upcoming events
Sorry, there are no upcoming events at this place
About Cuckmere Valley
With fantastic views of the Seven Sisters, Cuckmere Valley is a haven for wildlife, from over-wintering wildfowl to colourful wild flowers.
Cradle Valley is a wonderful example of this species-rich chalk grassland, attracting rare and colourful butterflies and plants in summer.
High and Over's dramatic river cliff has been carved out of the soft chalk by the river below. In 1836 a white horse was cut into the chalk on the steep scarp and it remains a popular natural attraction.
Chyngton Farm was ploughed for food during World War II and artefacts, like anti-tank traps, pill boxes and bunkers, are still visible today.
Pass through Chyngton Farm to Cuckmere Haven and admire stunning views of the iconic Seven Sisters stretching away into the distance.
Our work
Project
Project
Changing Chalk partnership
The South Downs have been a place to live, work and play for thousands of years. Together we can make sure they will be enjoyed for thousands more. Learn how the projects of the Changing Chalk partnership, led by the National Trust, are restoring lost habitats, bringing histories to life, and providing new outdoor experiences across the eastern South Downs, and discover how you can get involved.