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Hiking near Eastbourne/South Downs Way

Posted by (Minneapolis/St. Paul) on

Can someone offer any insight into the general terrain along the South Downs Way near Eastbourne? I'll (38 at the time) be traveling to England next May with my 70-year-old mother and plan to spend three nights in Eastbourne. We did the coastal walk from Whitby towards Robin Hoods Bay a few years ago and loved it, so would like to do something similar on this trip. She's in good shape for her age-swims and bikes regularly, and even her doctor at a recent well-visit said "You don't act 70!"

However, I still want to be mindful of her comfort; flat paths, and even uphill are fine, as long as there isn't much in the way of rocks to scramble up and down. (We were up on the North Shore of Lake Superior recently and there were some rocky outcrops and gorge climbing that she wasn't comfortable with-I can't imagine the terrain along the cliffs in this region is too similar, but I want to avoid any potential frustration so I'm doing my research ahead of time!). She's leaning towards checking her suitcase so she can pack her trekking poles, which will certainly offer an additional layer of support.

Thanks!

Posted by
2723 posts

If you do a google image search for South Downs Way near Eastbourne, it will give an idea of what the walking is like. Partiularly around Beachy Head, the walking is very easy over short rolling grassland . There shouldn't be many rocks to scramble up and down.

Try contacting Eastbourne Tourist Information Office and ask them for more dertailed advice.

Posted by
558 posts

I have done this walk- once you get up onto the cliffs (which can be quite a steep walk) it's flat and grassy, like the Cleveland Way between Whitby and Robin Hood's Bay (we also did that walk last year- such a beautiful landscape!). There wasn't any scrambling. Beachy Head is a great place for a walk, just be mindful not to get too close to the edge! I'm sure you will both have a wonderful time.

Posted by
429 posts

I very much enjoyed my hiking holiday on The SDW. It will be similar to The Cleveland Way you experienced. The only real concern you may have is if you experience a lot of rain, it may make things less than ideal and trek poles would really come in handy. I based myself in Eastbourne and was pleased with the many pubs and restaurants to choose from. From Eastbourne, I went on a my all day hike, passing Beachy Head, Cuckmere Haven, Birling Gap, then turned inland and walked through the Friston Forest while getting a nice view and photos of the Litlington White Horse. Quick lunch and a couple of ales at the Longman Brewey complex and The Plaugh and Harrow Pub in Polegate. Then, another mile or two to my destination: The George Inn in Alfriston. I cannot recommend The George Inn enough (built in the 1300’s). Alfriston was a cute town in and by itself. From there, I took a bus from right in town to Seaford, then the train back to Eastbourne. In all, it was about 13 miles of great hiking, but you could shorten (or lengthen) it to fit your fitness level or desires. The coast is spectacular but don’t ignore the charming countryside just a couple miles inland from the cliffs.

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