The view from the beginning of the hike
Want to go on the prettiest hike of your life? Just a 2 hour train ride from central London, is the Seven Sisters Cliffs. They are one of the most beautiful natural coastlines in England. I got off the train in East Sussex at the Seaford station. Despite the usual UK weather, we really lucked out with a wonderful day of sun. The trail is actually only open on days of good weather because the cliffs can reach up to 300 feet and it is very dangerous if mud is involved.
Looking back at this picture makes me proud of myself considering how high I hiked (with no gates) near the edge
The cliffs are made of bright white chalk, the same geological formation as the famous White Cliffs of Dover. However, the Seven Sisters are often considered more natural and unspoiled because there is very little construction on top of them. The name comes from the seven distinct chalk cliff peaks that rise and fall along the coast. Walking the cliffs means going up and down these rolling hills, which creates dramatic views over the English Channel. Because of their pristine look, the cliffs are often used in movies and TV shows as a stand-in for other coastlines, including scenes meant to represent the Dover cliffs. The grasslands on top of the cliffs support wildflowers, seabirds, butterflies, and grazing sheep, making the area important for biodiversity.
As a girl slightly afraid of heights, I had to calm my nerves at times. Watching people go right up against the edge and even going so far as to sit on the edge, was making me panic. This hike was a great way to go out of my comfort zone and that is exactly what study abroad is about! So moral of the story is if you are ever in London and find yourself wanting a coastal get away, head on down to East Sussex.
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