Join us for a spring walk in the South Downs National Park on Saturday 11 May 2019.
This circular walking starting and finishing at Eastbourne railway station will provide a great opportunity to get out in the local countryside and meet with other BMC members whilst enjoying a fine hill walk.
Start Point: Eastbourne railway station (TV 609 991)
Start Time: 10:30
End Point: Eastbourne railway station (TV 609 991)
End Time: 16:00 (approx.)
Distance: 18km (11 miles)
Total Ascent: 580m (1900 feet)
Meet at 10:30 for a circular walk to the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. Leaving Eastbourne railway station and heading westwards inland, the route undulates through the weathered and eroded chalk landscape synonymous with the South Downs. Continuing west after passing a small dew pond, Birling Gap provides the perfect location for the lunch stop. This idyllic coastal hamlet, very popular with holiday makers, is unfortunately feeling the full effects of coastal erosion with significant cliff falls occurring in the area in recent years. Views towards the chalk cliffs making up the Seven Sisters will be observed before backs will be turned and the track followed east passing the former lighthouse, now B&B, Belle Tout to reach this walk’s high point, the summit of Beachy Head at 162 metres above sea level. The cliff edge will then be followed accompanied by the sea on the return to Eastbourne.
Find out more about the South Downs National Park
Mixed terrain will be encountered along the route; mostly metaled paths will be used, however there are some sections along grass tracks which may be muddier underfoot. It is essential that a good pair of walking boots is worn with a decent sole to aid with stability on the muddy and slippery sections.
For further information about the walk, see the attached pre-event information sheet.
To assist with the planning of the walk, if you would like to attend please send an email to BMC London & SE Area volunteer hill walking rep Chris Stone: lsehillwalking@hotmail.com