A Coastal Walk from Eastbourne That Feels Like a Breath of Fresh Air

 Some trips are born from the weather app.

 Last Friday, I saw a full day of sun and knew exactly what to do — I booked a morning train to Eastbourne, packed a few things into my expandable backpack, and headed for the white cliffs.

This wasn’t the typical Seven Sisters tourist route.

 Instead, I followed a gentler loop:

- 🚆 Victoria Station → Eastbourne (about 2 hours)

- 🚌 Bus 12A or 12X to East Dean (20 minutes)

- 🚶‍♀️ Walk from East Dean → Briling Gap, then along the cliffs

- 🚌 Return via Bus 13X back to Eastbourne (weekends only)

From the moment I stepped off the bus, the South Downs opened up in every direction — soft fields, quiet trails, and little farm cottages that looked like something out of a postcard. Sheep wandered across green hills. The air was fresh enough to taste.

The path led toward the sea, where the Seven Sisters cliffs dropped dramatically into that pale blue English Channel. I walked without hurrying. Took breaks. Sat on a bench. Let the wind do its thing.

I didn’t bring much. Just water, snacks, a camera, and layers — all comfortably fitted inside a lightweight expandable backpack that never felt bulky. Solo travel, for me, always means light gear and fewer decisions.

The walk back was even quieter.

 A slow descent into gold light and long shadows. By the time I got on the 13X bus back to Eastbourne, I felt full — not of things, but of space.

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This wasn’t a hike for records.

 It was a walk that reminded me of how soft freedom can feel — a good trail, good light, and no one asking where you’re going next.

👉 Click here for my extend backpack