Birling Gap and Seven Sisters

Heritage Site in Sussex Wealden

England

Birling Gap and Seven Sisters

Rockfall removal from beach, Birling Gap, East Sussex The accompanying photo, taken on 15/11/2023, is the fourth image in a sequence of photos that show the stages by which a substantial rockfall appeared and then disappeared from the beach at Birling Gap. Most of the erosion and removal of the rock occurred during the heavy sea of 14/11/2023 and by the next day almost all traces of the rockfall had vanished. The processes that led to the removal of the fallen rock, also operated on the western side of the viewing platform at Birling Gap, as rockfalls there also appeared and disappeared during the time period between 30/10/23 and 15/11/2023.
<a title="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7671616" href="https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/7671616">Link</a> — Rockfall removal from beach, Birling Gap, East Sussex Credit: Andrew Diack

Birling Gap and Seven Sisters is a breathtaking heritage site located in Sussex, England. It is renowned for its dramatic chalk cliffs, picturesque landscapes, and rich ecological diversity.

Situated within the South Downs National Park, Birling Gap and Seven Sisters boasts a stunning coastline that stretches for approximately seven miles. The iconic white cliffs, formed over millions of years, provide a captivating backdrop and offer spectacular views of the English Channel. Visitors are often left in awe of the sheer beauty and power of nature as they witness the constant erosion and shifting of the cliffs.

The site is named after the Seven Sisters, a series of striking chalk cliffs that stand side by side, resembling a row of majestic siblings. Each cliff is unique in shape and size, adding to the enchanting panorama. At the foot of these cliffs lies Birling Gap, a charming pebble beach where visitors can relax, explore rock pools, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the shore.

In addition to its stunning scenery, Birling Gap and Seven Sisters is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The area is a haven for birdwatchers, who can spot various seabirds nesting on the cliffs, including fulmars, kittiwakes, and gulls. The coastal grasslands are also teeming with wildflowers, providing a vibrant habitat for insects and butterflies.

Due to its outstanding natural beauty and ecological significance, Birling Gap and Seven Sisters has been designated as a heritage site. It attracts numerous visitors who come to appreciate its breathtaking landscapes, indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking and picnicking, or simply immerse themselves in the tranquility and splendor of this remarkable location.

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Birling Gap and Seven Sisters Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 50.752/0.182 or Grid Reference TV5496. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Rockfall removal from beach, Birling Gap, East Sussex

The accompanying photo, taken on 15/11/2023, is the fourth image in a sequence of photos that show the stages by which a substantial rockfall appeared and then disappeared from the beach at Birling Gap. Most of the erosion and removal of the rock occurred during the heavy sea of 14/11/2023 and by the next day almost all traces of the rockfall had vanished. The processes that led to the removal of the fallen rock, also operated on the western side of the viewing platform at Birling Gap, as rockfalls there also appeared and disappeared during the time period between 30/10/23 and 15/11/2023. Link

Andrew Diack

Cliffs above Cuckmere Haven

Looking down from the first of the Seven Sisters, above the mouth of the river Cuckmere

Noel Jenkins

Birling Gap

The doomed village of Birling Gap. A tourist honeypot.

Peter Home

Heading east off the Seven Sisters into Birling Gap

Alan Rolfe

Michel Dean monument

In the last dip on the Seven Sisters before Birling Gap. The monument is mark the gift of the land to the National Trust.

Alan Rolfe

On the Seven Sisters looking east

The old lighthouse of Belle Tout can be seen right on the distant cliff. This was moved some 16 metres or so back from the cliff edge in 1999 and may have to be moved again within the next 50 years.

Alan Rolfe

Cliff End, E side of Cuckmere Haven

Cuckmere Haven lies on the coast at the point where the South Downs meet the sea. Cliff End marks the western end of the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs.

Philip Talmage

East Dean village green

An impromptu game of cricket being played outside the Tiger Inn

David Gruar

Friston church

I quite like this lych-gate. The footpath to East Dean passes through it and the churchyard.

Toby Speight

Birling Gap

This image taken in 2001 shows how precarious the houses are. I wonder whether they are still there? Some of them are still there, up to the one painted cream but the other two have gone. TV5595 : Former Coastguard Cottages, Birling Gap, Sussex for how it looks now.

Christine Matthews

Birling Gap

Birling Gap hotel, beach and lifeboat, facing to the west.

Chris Plunkett

Eroding Chalk cliffs at Birling Gap

One of the most unusual accesses to a beach you'll find!

Keith Duff

The Seven Sisters - Foreshore at Low Tide

Below towering chalk-white cliffs is an eroded chalk foreshore pavement at low tide. The trapped seawater is milky white too. In the distance, the dip in the cliffline is Birling Gap.

Colin Smith