Top 7 Services for Transport Links to and from the Seven Sisters Walk
The classic Seven Sisters walk runs between Seaford and Eastbourne on the Sussex coast, with access points at Seven Sisters Country Park (Exceat) and Birling Gap. These seven services make it easy to plan a linear hike, day trip, or multi-stop itinerary.
1) Southern Railway (East Coastway): Trains to Seaford and Eastbourne
- Why use it: The simplest way to start/finish a linear Seaford–Eastbourne hike. Seaford and Eastbourne are the closest railheads at either end of the walk.
- How it helps: Regular trains connect London (via Lewes), Brighton, and other South Coast towns with Seaford and Eastbourne.
- Useful links:
- Southern Railway route maps (includes Seaford branch and Eastbourne on the East Coastway): https://www.southernrailway.com/travel-information/plan-your-journey/route-maps
- National Rail journey planner: https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/
2) Brighton & Hove Buses “Coaster” 12/12A/12X: Along the coast via Seven Sisters Country Park
- Why use it: Frequent coast road buses stop at Seven Sisters Country Park (Exceat), Seaford, East Dean and Eastbourne—ideal for hop-on/hop-off sections or bail‑outs.
- Key stop for the walk: “Seven Sisters Country Park” (Exceat).
- Useful links:
- Coaster route overview and timetables: https://www.buses.co.uk/coaster
- Seven Sisters Country Park official page (getting here by bus 12/12A/12X): https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/location/seven-sisters-country-park/
3) Brighton & Hove Buses 13X: Scenic seasonal bus via Birling Gap and Beachy Head
- Why use it: On seasonal Sundays and public holidays, 13X serves Birling Gap and Beachy Head—perfect for accessing the eastern cliffs or shortening the route.
- Tip: Always check current operating dates before you go.
- Useful link: 13X timetable and route info: https://www.buses.co.uk/services/BH/13X
4) Cuckmere Buses (Community routes): Quiet‑valley links to Exceat, Alfriston and stations
- Why use it: Handy on selected days for linking Berwick Station, Alfriston, Litlington, Exceat (Seven Sisters Country Park), Seaford and Eastbourne—great for less crowded access.
- Tip: Services are community‑run with limited schedules—plan around the timetables.
- Useful link: Routes and timetables: https://www.cuckmerebuses.org.uk/
5) National Express Coaches: Budget links to Brighton/Eastbourne, then connect locally
- Why use it: Comfortable, direct coaches from London and major airports to Brighton or Eastbourne; switch to train or Coaster buses for the final leg.
- Good for: Early starts or late finishes when rail fares surge.
- Useful link: Eastbourne destination page (journey planner and tickets): https://www.nationalexpress.com/en/destinations/eastbourne
6) Seven Sisters Country Park (Exceat) Car Parks: Park at the heart of the route
- Why use it: Park right by the Cuckmere Valley at Exceat—the most convenient trailhead for loops or mid‑way starts.
- Extras: The Coaster bus stops at the park entrance, so you can park‑and‑bus to/from other trail sections.
- Useful link: Official site (parking and “How to get here”): https://www.southdowns.gov.uk/location/seven-sisters-country-park/
7) Birling Gap (National Trust) Car Park: Direct access to the eastern cliffs
- Why use it: Immediate access to the cliffs between Seven Sisters and Beachy Head; ideal if you’re focusing on the East Dean/Birling Gap section.
- Note: Parking charges apply; National Trust members typically park free—check the site for current details.
- Useful link: National Trust Birling Gap (parking and visiting info): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/birling-gap-and-the-seven-sisters
How to choose quickly
- For a full linear hike: Train to Seaford, hike to Eastbourne, train home (Southern Railway).
- For mid‑route access at Exceat: Take Coaster 12/12A/12X to Seven Sisters Country Park.
- For Birling Gap/Beachy Head focus: Use 13X (seasonal) or park at Birling Gap.
- For quieter approaches or Alfriston links: Check Cuckmere Buses.
- On a budget from London: Coach to Eastbourne, then local bus/train.