Birling Gap Beach

Birling Gap beach in East Sussex sits at the base of the dramatic Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. It’s accessed via the A259 and is on the number 12X bus route from Brighton. The beach is made up of pebbles with small patches of sand at low tide. When the tide’s out the beach is perfect for rock pooling. Children can collect a beach scavenger hunt pack at the visitor centre or search for fossils in the rock pools. At high tide, the beach is quite narrow.

A National Trust cafe at the top of the cliff serves refreshments, snacks and ice creams. There’s also a visitor centre and gift shop. Nearby are toilets and a National Trust car park which is free to members or payable for non-members. The beach is accessed via a metal 50-step staircase. 

The cliffs are unstable and chalk often breaks away from the cliffs so it can be dangerous. It’s advisable to stay well away from the base of the cliffs or from the edge at the cliff top. Despite this, the scenery at Birling Gap is absolutely stunning. There’s a bigger beach a little way along the coast at Cuckmere Haven which is more suitable for children. Dogs are allowed all year round on Birling Gap Beach.

Guest Post with thanks to The Travelbunny – why not check out her post Seven Sisters Country Park to find out what else to do in the area?

Further Information Birling Gap Beach

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe where you can purchase food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

The beach is made up of pebbles with small patches of sand at low tide. When the tide’s out the beach is perfect for rock pooling.

Is there parking?

There is parking with a charge for non-members of the National Trust.

Dog friendly?

Dogs are welcome all year round.