Seaford, England

I kind of want to keep this seaside town a secret. Not many tourists go here as they tend to stay to the west in Brighton or to the east in Eastbourne. In fact the city of Seaford, located in East Sussex, only has a couple of places to stay…part of what makes this area of the southern coast so appealing! Because I was staying with relatives I didn’t have to worry about finding a place and even at the end of August the beach area was fairly quiet.

There is a quaint cafe situated along the promenade that sells pastries and drinks, as well as beach huts that are either owned by locals or rented out to tourists.

The Martello Tower situated along the seafront was built between 1806 and 1810 and was used as a defensive tower during the Napoleonic War. It now houses the Seaford Museum.

At one end of the seafront you will find Seaford Head, chalk cliffs that rise dramatically from the shore.

Farther east of the Seaford seafront you will find the imposing Seven Sisters. A larger group of chalk cliffs located between Seaford and Eastbourne. These cliffs have maintained their white colouring over the years because of the constant erosion that happens naturally.

View of part of the Seven Sisters from hill above Seaford.

The town of Seaford is located within the South Downs, an area known for its rolling hills, short grasslands, and dry valleys. There are numerous hikes in this area, either over the hills or along the coast.

Birling Gap, located just 6 miles east of Seaford, is the site of a National Trust park. Here you will find the start of many of the coastal walks, as well as a cafe and visitor centre. It is definitely worth the drive and you can stop along the way to enjoy different viewpoints.

Birling Gap was the site of a former lighthouse built in the early 1800’s. In the late 1800’s eight cottages were built here for the coastguard.

The Seven Sisters from Birling Gap looking back toward Seaford.

Unfortunately, because of the constant erosion, some of the cottages fell into the sea and now all that remains are these three perched close to the cliff-side.

I enjoyed my time in Seaford. Both the seafront and the surrounding area have a lot to offer the visitor. So if you find yourself near this lovely coastal town, stop and discover it for yourself. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.