New coastal path opens in South Downs National Park and Sussex
June 7, 2022
Stunning sea views, blissful rural scenery and vibrant coastal towns are some of the delights of a new section of the England Coast Path.
The first complete section in Sussex opened last month, giving walkers new opportunities to connect with nature and all the wellbeing benefits of a coastal ramble with all of that fresh sea air.
The 33-mile (53km) route goes from Shoreham-by-Sea to Eastbourne and takes in the iconic chalk cliffs of the National Park.
Trevor Beattie, Chief Executive of the National Park Authority, said: “This is wonderful news and a fantastic opportunity for walkers to get out and explore.
“The path goes over Seaford head, crosses the Cuckmere at Exceat Bridge and then follows the South Downs Way through Seven Sisters, providing another easy-to-follow walking route into the Country Park.
“This route will form a key part of the 2,700-mile-long England Coast Path, which will become the longest walking route in the world.”
Jim Seymour, Area Manager for Natural England, said: “At a time when the benefits of connecting with nature are clearer than ever, it’s fabulous that we are opening up this 33-mile-long section of footpath across the South Downs and along the east and west Sussex coast.
“I have personally felt the value of walking a section of this route recently with my family.”
Look out for a host of wildlife along the route including migratory and nesting birds such as lesser whitethroat and fulmars, wildflowers including birds’ foot trefoil and thrift, and plenty of butterflies and insects.
This new stretch of trail is also a vital link in the South East section of the England Coast Path.
Once complete, the whole of the South East Coast Path will run from Shoreham-by Sea to the London Borough of Bexley.
For more information visit the England Coastal Path information page here.
