2 days in the South Downs: a weekend itinerary
White chalk cliffs, a historic village and a hilltop town, all close to Brighton.
- Independent UK guide
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- Updated October 2026
The South Downs are rolling chalk hills along the south coast, ending at the white cliffs of the Seven Sisters. This plan uses Brighton or Alfriston as a base, with a big coastal walk on day one and a historic town or hilltop on day two.
Cliff edges are crumbling, so keep back from them.
Day 1: Seven Sisters and Alfriston
- Morning: Walk from Seven Sisters Country Park along the cliffs towards Birling Gap, about five or six miles with some steep ups and downs.
- Lunch: Eat at the cafe at Birling Gap or a pub in the village.
- Afternoon: Visit Alfriston, with its Clergy House, the first National Trust property.
- Evening: Have dinner at a pub in Alfriston.
Day 2: Lewes or Devil's Dyke
- Morning: Visit Lewes, a historic hilltop town with a castle and independent shops.
- Lunch: Eat in Lewes, a town of pubs and cafes.
- Afternoon: Walk at Devil's Dyke or Ditchling Beacon for hill views.
- Heading home: Return to Brighton for trains to London.
Where to stay
Alfriston is the prettiest base, Brighton offers more choice, and Lewes is a good alternative with a railway station.
Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.
Getting there and around
- From London: About 1 hour to 1.5 hours by train to Lewes or Arundel.
- From Brighton: About 20 to 30 minutes by car.
- From Winchester: About 1 hour by car.
Trains serve Brighton and Lewes, and buses run to the Seven Sisters, but a car helps for the villages.
If it rains
If it rains, spend more time in Lewes, with its museums and pubs, and visit Alfriston's cosy inns.
Packing list for South Downs
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the Seven Sisters walk hard?
It is up and down along the cliffs, so moderate, but well marked.
Can I do the South Downs without a car?
Mostly. Trains and buses link Brighton, Lewes and the Seven Sisters.
Is it safe near the cliffs?
Cliffs are unstable and edges can collapse, so keep well back and never climb on them.
Keep planning
Rolling chalk hills, white cliffs and country pubs
Seven Sisters cliff walkSeven Sisters Country Park, East SussexThe Seven Sisters are a row of white chalk cliffs on the Sussex coast, between Seaford and Eastbourne.
New Forest ponies walkLyndhurst and Brockenhurst, HampshireThe New Forest is one of the few places in England where ponies, cattle, pigs and deer roam freely on open heath and ancient woodland, under a system of rights known as commoning.
Brighton Palace Pier and seafrontBrighton, East SussexBrighton Palace Pier opened in 1899 and is one of the most famous seaside piers in Britain, with arcades, rides and food stalls.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and travel details change, so check before you go. Report an error or share a tip.