FREE HIKE 26k | Fourteen Sisters Coastal Challenge

Take on one of England’s most spectacular coastal challenges, and then turn around and do it again.

⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:

• Distance: approx. 26 km (16 miles)
• Grading: MODERATE/STRENUOUS
• Ascent: 449 m | Descent: 447 m
• Max Elevation: 164 m
• Hiking Time: approx. 6 hours
• Total Time: approx. 7.5 hours
• Pace: moving speed 4–6 kph

This demanding out-and-back adventure doesn’t just conquer the Seven Sisters cliffs, it doubles them, transforming them into the legendary Fourteen Sisters. Think of it as meeting your in-laws; they seem friendly at first, but by the second round you know exactly what you’re in for. It’s the ultimate test of stamina, determination, and coastal spirit.

🥾 We begin in Eastbourne, climbing steadily toward the mighty Beachy Head, Britain’s highest chalk sea cliff, 162 metres of dramatic white rock staring down the English Channel. Below, the red-and-white Beachy Head Lighthouse stands proud against the restless sea, an iconic beacon for sailors and a perfect excuse for us to “stop for a photo” (and maybe a tiny breather) before the real rollercoaster begins.

From there, we drop to Birling Gap, a shingle bay framed by sheer chalk walls, the only real break in this cliff line and the last easy moment before we tackle the famous Sisters: Haven Brow, Short Brow, Rough Brow, Brass Point, Flat Hill, Bailey’s Hill, and finally Went Hill Brow. Each one demands a climb, each one rewards you with sweeping sea views… and each one will make you wonder if the next one might be the “last” (spoiler: it’s not).

↕️ The rhythm is relentless, up, down, up, down, like nature’s StairMaster but with better scenery and more seagulls. What you miss on the first pass, you’ll get on the return. The second time round, the hills feel taller, the air fresher, and your legs… well, they’ll have some opinions about it.

💪 Expect bracing sea air, wild open skies, and a small, determined group bonded by shared grit and a taste for big challenges. This isn’t a gentle Sunday stroll, it’s a seven-hour endurance push, with short breaks to refuel, regroup, and crack the occasional “whose idea was this?” joke. The aim is to keep a brisk pace, soak up the views, and maybe even still be able to walk the next day.

🏆 The Goal
Out and back without losing momentum. Double the Sisters, double the glory. And yes, your legs will remember their names, but so will your camera roll, your sense of achievement, and maybe even the drink afterwards.

🏖️ The Victory Lap
Once we return to Eastbourne, we’ll take a relaxing stroll along the beach to cool down before heading back toward the station. If time permits, and the group is keen, we might even sneak into a pub for a cheeky celebratory drink before boarding the train home, the perfect way to toast conquering the Fourteen Sisters.

🛑 IMPORTANT: THIS HIKE IS NOT SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS.

🚑🚕 EXIT POINTS:
If at any point during the hike you find you can’t continue, the main exit point is at Birling Gap, roughly halfway along the route. Buses from Birling Gap to Eastbourne (12/12A) typically run every 30 minutes, but check the timetable in advance.

🚆 TRAIN COSTS FROM LONDON:

• Standard Return: £29.20 from London Victoria to Eastbourne with a NetworkRailcard discount.

📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 1:

• 08:15 – Meet at London Victoria Station, main ticket office
• 08:30 – Leave the meeting point
• 08:46 – Train departs from London Victoria to Eastbourne
• 10:13 – Arrive at Eastbourne
• Check Nation Rail for exact train times on the day.

📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 2:

• 10:15 – Meet inside Eastbourne Station, next to the benches

🚶WALK STARTS:

• 10:30 - Eastbourne Station, next to the benches

🏁 WALK FINISHES:

• Approx 18:00 – Eastbourne Station (depending on group pace)

TRAINS - RETURN:

• 18:00 – Direct from Eastbourne to London Victoria (arrives 19:34)
• 19:00 – Direct from Eastbourne to London Victoria (arrives 20:34)

🥪 LUNCH

• Around the 13 km mark, bring packed lunch and snacks

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water (at least 2L)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers and waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Medication and basic first aid
• Daypack and optional walking poles
• Fully charged phone

📞CONTACT:

• Message the event host directly via Meetup with any questions.

⚠️ CLIFF SAFETY WARNING:

• The chalk cliffs along the Seven Sisters are unstable and can collapse without warning. For your safety, always stay well back from the edge. These cliffs are stunning but dangerous, please respect the terrain to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

⚠️OUTDOOR GROUP POLICY & DISCLAIMER
1. Purpose and Nature of the Group
We are a volunteer-led hiking community, not a business, guiding service, or first aid provider. All activities are peer-led and informal. You are responsible for your own safety, actions, and wellbeing.
2. Participation & Risk

• By attending, you accept that hiking involves risks such as:
• Personal injury, illness, or accidents
• Sudden weather changes
• Challenging terrain (mud, cliffs, rivers, etc.)
• Wildlife encounters
• Navigational challenges

You are expected to:

• Honestly assess your fitness and experience
• Prepare appropriately for the route and weather
• Bring your own supplies (water, food, first aid kit)
• Carry a charged phone and offline navigation tools
• Arrange personal accident insurance if desired.

Organisers may decline participation if safety is a concern.

3. Code of Conduct
3.1 Safety & Behaviour

• Follow all safety advice and local laws
• No smoking, vaping, or drug use during hikes
• No alcohol unless explicitly permitted
• No loud music or headphones in situations requiring awareness
• Communicate with the group if you become separated. Separation is strongly discouraged.

Unsafe or disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.
We’re committed to maintaining a friendly, respectful, and welcoming space for all. If you ever experience any interactions, inside or outside the group, that make you feel uncomfortable, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
3.2 Emergency Preparedness

• Bring suitable clothing for changing conditions
• Know local emergency contact numbers
• Understand that rescue may not be possible or guaranteed

3.3 Respect for Nature

• Leave No Trace. Take your rubbish home.
• Stay on marked paths to protect the environment
• Do not disturb wildlife or remove plants
• Respect landowners, close gates, and follow signs

3.4 Respect for Others

• Be considerate of fellow hikers and other trail users
• Offer help when appropriate, but know that rescue is not guaranteed
• Disruptive behaviour may result in permanent removal from the group

4. Participation Rules

• Adults aged 21 and over
• No children or pets on our hikes
• Read the event description and difficulty before attending
• Organisers may change or cancel events due to weather, safety, or availability

5. Communication & Navigation

• Bring a map, GPS, or offline navigation app
• Let the organiser know if you leave the group
• Share your emergency contact info with someone you trust before the hike

6. Photo and Media

• Photos may be shared in group chats or on social media.

If you do not wish to appear in photos, please inform the organiser before the event.

• Members must use a clear, real profile photo. Fake or AI-generated images are not allowed. Contact us if you need a privacy-friendly alternative.

7. Event Cancellations and Changes

• Events may be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice due to weather, safety concerns, or organiser availability.

Check for updates before travelling.

8. Behaviour & Consequences

• Members are expected to act respectfully and responsibly.
• Violations of these rules may result in removal from events or permanent exclusion from the group.

✅ Final Acknowledgement
By joining any activity, you confirm that you:

• Have read and understood the group rules and Outdoor Group Policy & Disclaimer.
• Accept full responsibility for your safety.
• Acknowledge that organisers and the group accept no liability.
• Agree to follow these guidelines so we can all enjoy the hikes together.