South Downs & Seven Sisters Day Trip from Brighton

Summary

White cliffs, Sussex farms and ancient legends on a Brighton day trip

You’ll start your day trip from Brighton meeting locals over coffee at Middle Farm, hear Sussex legends at Devil’s Dyke, see ancient chalk figures near Wilmington, and walk above those bright white Seven Sisters cliffs. Expect laughter, sea air, and small moments you’ll remember long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting by the minibus when I showed up (a bit out of breath, I’ll admit — I’d underestimated Brighton’s morning hills). He handed me a bottle of water and asked if I’d ever heard the story behind Devil’s Dyke. I hadn’t. So he grinned and launched into this wild Sussex legend about the devil digging out the valley in one night. Standing up there later, wind whipping my jacket, you could almost believe it — the green hills just drop away like someone took a giant scoop out of them. There was this faint smell of wet grass and sheep somewhere nearby; I kept thinking how different it felt from the city only half an hour away.

The next stop was Middle Farm. It’s not fancy or staged — just a real working place with muddy boots by the door and locals chatting over tea. We got coffee in these big old mugs (complimentary, which felt generous) and wandered through barns stacked with cider barrels. The woman at the counter let us try a sip that tasted like apples and woodsmoke; I tried to buy a slice of cake but fumbled with my coins (note: bring cash). Li laughed and said even locals get confused with all the old coins still floating around.

I didn’t expect to feel much at the Long Man of Wilmington — it’s just a chalk figure on a hill, right? But standing there in the drizzle, looking up at this mysterious shape carved centuries ago… it hit different. No one really knows who made it or why. A couple from London argued quietly about whether it was pagan or Roman; their little dog barked at nothing. Sometimes places just feel older than you can explain.

The last stretch along Beachy Head to the Seven Sisters was quieter. The cliffs are so white they almost hurt your eyes if the sun comes out (it did for about five minutes). We walked along the headland while Li pointed out where ships had wrecked below — apparently that lighthouse has its own ghost stories too. There was this salty tang in the air and gulls wheeling overhead, and for a moment nobody said anything at all. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck on a crowded train back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore South Downs and Seven Sisters

• View South Downs from Devil’s Dyke
• Visit traditional Sussex Farm shop and tea rooms
• See ancient chalk hill carving
• Enjoy views from Belle Tout Lighthouse
• Walk around Seven Sisters Cliffs headland

Top questions

How long is the South Downs & Seven Sisters day trip from Brighton?

The full-day tour typically lasts around 8 hours including all stops.

Is pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points in Brighton are included.

What is included in the South Downs & Seven Sisters tour?

The tour includes bottled water, national park fees, transport by minivan, live commentary from your driver/guide, complimentary coffee at Middle Farm, and all listed stops.

Do I need cash for food or drinks during the tour?

Yes, it's recommended to bring cash in Sterling for purchases at some stops like Middle Farm.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No lunch is included but you can buy food at Middle Farm or other stops along the way.

Are children allowed on this day trip?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the tour.

What should I wear for this South Downs & Seven Sisters trip?

Dress appropriately for variable weather conditions as the tour operates rain or shine; comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

How many people are on each minibus tour?

The group size is small—up to 16 passengers per luxury Mercedes minibus.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from Brighton meeting points, national park entry fees covered, bottled water throughout your journey, complimentary coffee at Middle Farm, live stories from your local driver-guide aboard an air-conditioned minivan—and plenty of time to wander each stop before heading back to town together.