Brilliant Birling Gap
The National Trust shop sells nets, should you forget your rockpooling equipment.
Birling Gap is a superb destination for a brilliant family day of fun! Head down to the shingle beach to explore the huge expanse of rockpools revealed at low-tide. Stop in at the Visitor Centre to learn about the chalk cliffs and how erosion has changed the shape of the coastline. Walk the beautiful coastal path to Belle Tout lighthouse, which was moved back from the cliff edge in 1999, following a major cliff fall.
Fossil hunting and rock pooling at low tide
National Trust Visitor Centre with child-friendly interactive displays
Lovely cliff-top walk to Belle Tout lighthouse
Stunning views from the coastal path
Cafe and souvenir shop
Birling Gap is a superb destination for a brilliant family day of fun! Head down to the shingle beach to explore the huge expanse of rockpools revealed at low-tide. Stop in at the Visitor Centre to learn about the chalk cliffs and how erosion has changed the shape of the coastline. Walk the beautiful coastal path to Belle Tout lighthouse, which was moved back from the cliff edge in 1999, following a major cliff fall.
Fossil hunting and rock pooling at low tide
National Trust Visitor Centre with child-friendly interactive displays
Lovely cliff-top walk to Belle Tout lighthouse
Stunning views from the coastal path
Cafe and souvenir shop
KEY INFO:
ADMISSION:
FREE!!
SUITABLE FOR:
LOCATION:
East Dean, near Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN20 0AB
PARKING:
Free for NT members (with card).
AMENITIES:
DISTANCE:
Belle Tout lighthouse is 0.8 miles from the car park. Beachy Head is 2.7 miles away.
OPEN:
Visitor Centre open daily. See website for seasonal timings
The beach at Birling Gap is accessed down a staircase of 50 steps from the car park.
The coastal path to Belle Tout lighthouse is accessed by steps leading up from the car park. Walking on open chalk grassland, there are stunning views the whole way. Be aware of the unfenced cliff edge. It is recommended that dogs are kept on a lead.
If you fancy a longer walk, then continue on the coastal path from Belle Tout lighthouse all the way to Beachy Head (see map). Either take a picnic to enjoy on the way or stop in at the Beachy Head Pub. There is usually an ice cream van in the main car park at Beachy Head too.
Toilets are located in the car parks at Birling Gap and Beachy Head.
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