South Hill Barn Loop

Distance: 1.7 miles. One area of steep incline just beyond Hope Gap.

Duration: approx. I hour, including time to stop, take pictures, and enjoy the views.

This walk was the site of the Walk the Chalk art installations. Sadly these couldn't stay permanently, but take a look at the Walk the Chalk artwork page and try to imagine the spectacle as you travel along the Coast Path. The eyes on the map above mark the locations of the artworks. 

South Hill Barn  - the start and finish point for this walk - is also the site of the wonderful Brewsters Coffee wagon and a great place to stop for refreshments.

Starting at South Hill Barn car park (the uppermost eye on the map), head for the stile to the right of the barn, checking the gable end for any remaining signs of Chris Drury's painting of a giant mushroom spore, which is fading away over time.

As you enter the field, you'll catch your first sight of the incredible Seven Sisters. Walking across the field in the direction of the sea, you'll reach another stile which takes you onto the England Coast Path. From here, turn left and walk down to Hope Gap, where more magnificent views await. At low tide, you may see the rare chalk reef. At the time of writing, the steps down to the beach and reef are closed for repair. If you can access the beach, do take extra care and check the tide times - the beach can be cut off surprisingly quickly as the tide comes in. 

Follow the Coast Path up the short incline and continue east towards Cuckmere Haven. You will eventually reach the Coastguard Cottages and will be met with the sight of the Cuckmere meanders, as well as the famous view of the cliffs.

After drinking in the spectacle, head west up the track about half a mile to arrive back at South Hill Barn.

Getting There

South Hill Barn car park is often very busy, with overspilled cars parking on the narrow track from Chyngton Way, so we recommend using public transport, walking or cycling.

By bus: The Brighton & Hove number 12 Coaster buses from Brighton via Newhaven to Eastbourne stop on the A259 junction with Chyngton Lane. From here, walk south down Chyngton Lane (which is closed to traffic) and continue up the track to South Hill. The walk will take approximately 20 minutes.

By bike: Cycling is not permitted on the England Coast Path, but there is ample and secure cycle parking at South Hill Barn. Get Bikery, based in Lewes has a range of brilliant e-cargo bikes to hire.