Last Updated on: 13th March 2023, 06:37 am
“Discovering the Beauty and Heritage of Sussex: A Zen Walk from Friston Forest to Cuckmere Haven”
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- CUCKMERE HAVEN, EAST SUSSEX, England/ English, FRISTON FOREST, Heritage, MEDITATION, MINDFULNESS, NATURE, OUTDOORS, SEVEN SISTERS, South Downs, Travel, United Kingdom, Walks, WELLBEING, Zen
“Discovering the Beauty
and Heritage of Sussex:
A Zen Walk from Friston Forest to Cuckmere Haven”
If you’re looking for a peaceful, rejuvenating escape
from the hustle and bustle of everyday life,
a zen walk through Sussex might just be what you need.
One of the most scenic walks in the area
is the path from Friston Forest to Cuckmere Haven,
which takes you through lush forests,
over rolling hills, and along a stunning coastline.
As you begin your walk in Friston Forest,
you’ll be surrounded by towering trees
and the peaceful sounds of nature.
Take a deep breath and allow yourself
to fully immerse in the beauty of your surroundings.
As you make your way out of the forest,
the trail opens up to reveal expansive views of the South Downs.
As you walk along the path,
you’ll encounter a number of historic landmarks and sites,
such as the Long Man of Wilmington,
a hill figure dating back to the Iron Age.
Take a moment to reflect on the rich history and culture of the area,
and appreciate the heritage that has been preserved for generations.
As you approach Cuckmere Haven,
the path takes you along the meandering river,
with breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters cliffs in the distance.
Take a seat on the pebbled beach
and meditate on the beauty and tranquility of the moment.
A zen walk through Sussex is not just a physical journey,
but a mental and spiritual one as well.
It’s a chance to connect with nature, history, and your inner self,
and find peace and harmony in the present moment.
When one is in the midst of nature,
without the distractions of modern conveniences,
even the sight of wildflowers in full bloom
can captivate the senses,
leading to reciting poems to them.
This intimate connection with nature
allows people to appreciate the seasons
and the expressions of life that they bring forth
at that particular moment.
It is essential to view things in the long term
and not judge based on a single season.
The stunning vistas of the Sussex countryside
are a favorite among urbanites,
as evidenced by the popularity of
BBC’s Escape to the Country and Countryfiles.
These rolling hills can be found
in the South Downs National Park
and offer a challenge to serious hikers,
who can complete the entire length
of the South Downs Way in just 20 days.
While this may seem like an arduous task,
many long-distance hikers find these walks
to be a form of escape
or even a way to reset their lives,
particularly after experiencing setbacks
such as the loss of a loved one,
job loss, divorce, or serious mental health issues.
These feats are not accomplished solely through determination,
but rather by a deeper motivation or purpose.
WEST DEAN VILLAGE:
A MEDIEVAL HAMLET IN SUSSEX
West Dean Village is a small and picturesque hamlet
located in the South Downs National Park,
in the county of Sussex, England.
The village is steeped in history
and is known for its medieval architecture,
beautiful gardens, and idyllic countryside setting.
The village is home to West Dean College,
a prestigious institution known for its courses in arts,
conservation, and creative writing.
The college is located in the magnificent West Dean House,
which is surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland.
The house was originally built in the 17th century,
and has been owned by the Edward James Foundation since 1964.
One of the main attractions of West Dean Village
is its stunning church, St. Andrew’s,
which dates back to the 11th century.
The church is built from local flint and features a Norman tower,
which is one of the oldest surviving parts of the building.
Inside, the church is decorated with beautiful stained-glass windows
and boasts a magnificent altar piece
by the Flemish artist, Peter Paul Rubens.
The village also has a number of other historic buildings,
including a medieval hall house and a 16th-century pub,
The Fox Goes Free.
The pub is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike,
and serves up traditional British pub fare and ales.
West Dean Village is also known
for its beautiful countryside setting,
with the South Downs National Park
providing the perfect backdrop for walks and hikes.
Visitors can explore the local trails
and enjoy views of the rolling hills and open countryside.
For those looking to learn more
about the history and culture of West Dean Village,
there are a number of guided tours available.
These tours take visitors on a journey
through the village’s rich past,
exploring its architecture, art, and gardens.
Overall, West Dean Village
is a charming and peaceful retreat,
offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era.
Whether you’re interested in history, art,
or simply taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life,
West Dean Village is well worth a visit.
Great job!
Remember how we said it would all be worth it?
Now, standing atop the hill,
we are rewarded with breathtaking views
of the stunning Cuckmere Valley below.
This location is a popular resting point for hikers and walkers
who want to take a break and bask in the magnificent scenery.
On our itinerary,
this was supposed to be only one-third of our walk,
and we were meant to follow the road down, bearing right.
However, we couldn’t resist the allure of the Cuckmere Valley,
and we’ve decided to shorten the hike
and instead make our way towards the sea.
Plus, we’re quite famished at this point,
and our eyes are set on the charming pub located by the bridge.
Behold the captivating sight of Cuckmere Haven.
The gentle flow of the Cuckmere River
can almost be heard as it leisurely winds its way towards the Haven,
before eventually reaching its endpoint at The English Channel.
Located at the base of the hill,
you will find the Buzz Active Cuckmere watersports centre.
This facility, situated within the Seven Sisters County Park
at Exceat, Near Seaford, East Sussex BN25 4AD,
is a popular destination for enthusiasts
of stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking,
and other water sports activities that the river has to offer.
To get in touch with the site,
please call 01323 491289.
For all other inquiries,
please use 01323 417023 or email info@buzzactive.org.uk.
Visit their website at
https://www.buzzactive.org.uk/locations/buzz-cuckmere/ to learn more.
Additionally,
a car park located further up on the right-hand side
is reserved for the country pub we mentioned earlier,
and we can’t wait to check it out!
“I am curious about how the river developed its meandering path.
Could it be due to the lack of force to flow straight into the sea?
Are there any Ice Age hypotheses to explain this phenomenon?
Or maybe the river just wanted to leisurely explore
and appreciate the beauty of the Cuckmere Valley.”
“Getting to Cuckmere Haven by public transport is easy and convenient.
Hop on one of the buses that travel along the scenic coastal route,
and you’ll be dropped off right at the doorstep of this beautiful destination –
although you won’t find any doors here!
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey
as you make your way to the stunning Cuckmere Valley.”
“Cuckmere Haven is a popular destination
for tourists and walkers,
with its stunning views attracting visitors throughout the year.
The park is also accessible to disabled visitors,
with buggy and wheelchair users often seen enjoying the sights.
The park’s efforts to make itself more accessible
have undoubtedly contributed to its popularity
and the diverse range of people who visit.”
“Visitors to this destination are spoilt for choice
with the diverse range of activities and scenery on offer.
Whether you prefer to walk on underhill footpaths,
along the hillside, or at the summit, there is something for everyone.
This makes it an ideal outing for the entire family.
While exploring this stunning location,
you will also come across some of the local farmers’ land
that the park has accessed via Rights of Way,
where you can see sheep grazing.
We would like to express our gratitude to the locals
for their generosity,
which has made England an even more remarkable place to visit.”
CUCKMERE HAVEN AND SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
Located on the south coast of England,
Cuckmere Haven Beach
and Seven Sisters Country Park
are two stunning destinations that offer visitors an idyllic coastal experience.
With their shingle beaches,
crystal-clear waters,
iconic chalk cliffs, and breathtaking views,
these two locations are sure to leave a lasting impression.
One of the standout features of Cuckmere Haven Beach
is its natural beauty.
The beach is surrounded by stunning chalk cliffs
that have been shaped by centuries of coastal erosion.
These cliffs, combined with the gentle lapping of the waves,
create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect
for relaxation and reflection.
The nearby meandering river that runs into the sea
adds an extra dimension to the already stunning coastal landscape.
Visitors to Cuckmere Haven Beach
can enjoy a range of activities.
The shingle beach is perfect for sunbathing and picnics,
while the clear waters are ideal for swimming and paddling.
The beach is also home to a range of marine life,
making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
And if you’re feeling adventurous,
you can even take a kayak or
stand-up paddleboard out onto the water.
Just a short walk from Cuckmere Haven Beach
is Seven Sisters Country Park,
a breathtakingly beautiful destination
that offers some of the best views in England.
The park is home to a series of iconic chalk cliffs
that stretch for miles along the coast.
From the clifftops, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the sea,
the surrounding countryside,
and even as far as the coast of France on a clear day.
In addition to its stunning views,
Seven Sisters Country Park
is also home to a range of flora and fauna.
The park is home to a diverse range of plant life,
including wildflowers and grasses,
and is a popular spot for birdwatchers.
The park also offers a range of walking and hiking trails,
with options for all fitness levels.
In conclusion,
Cuckmere Haven Beach and Seven Sisters Country Park
are two destinations that are sure to captivate visitors
with their natural beauty, diverse range of activities,
and stunning views.
Whether you’re a sunbather, swimmer, hiker, or nature enthusiast,
these two destinations have something for everyone.
So why not pack a picnic and head down
to these stunning locations for a day of relaxation and exploration?
The delta at Cuckmere Haven
offers a serene shallow pool
that is suitable for both children and adults who are young at heart.
The pools are filled by the gentle ebb and flow of the tide,
creating a one-of-a-kind play area for kids,
always under the watchful eyes of responsible adults.
The charming white cottages on the horizon
are reminiscent of the idyllic Sussex countryside
portrayed in romantic paintings.
If you browse through online or physical art galleries,
you’re sure to come across many paintings
featuring this picturesque scene.
The magnificent chalk cliffs
visible from the beach are an iconic feature
that make for a picture-perfect holiday scene.
However, these cliffs have also been the site
of tragic accidents and suicides.
It’s crucial for visitors to exercise caution
and avoid risky behavior,
such as taking photos near the cliff edge.
Park management has put up several warning signs
advising against walking too close to the edge.
The chalk composition of the cliffs
makes them unstable underfoot,
and even causes erosion several feet inland.
signaling that it’s time for us to make our way down the hill
and head to the pub.
WELCOME TO CUCKMERE VALLEY
A NATURAL HAVEN?
the Cuckmere Valley has an untouched feel,
has shaped the valley we see today.
MAN AND THE CUCKMERE
and dug ditches to drain the floodplain to improve agriculture.
into fast corridors to aid navigation and trade.
from Exceat to the sea, completed in 1846,
19, 500 cubic xxxx of material were dug out by hand,
enough to fill 6 1/2 Olympic swimming pools.
THE CUCKMERE AT WAR
the valley was fortified with pill boxes and tank traps.
The Valley also acted as a decoy for Newhaven’s port,
WILDLIFE
to the chalk grassland of Cradle Valley,
the wildlife of the Cuckmere Valley
Sea-kale and Yellow Horned-poppy
providing food for waders such as
and the remnants of salt marsh are vegetated by plants
and the purple flowering Common Sea-lavender
and mauve Sea Aster all adapted to periodic inundation by salt water.
Credits:
National Trust
https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/
located on the opposite bank of the Cuckmere River.
However, we won’t be exploring it any further
since it’s time for a refreshing pint of lager
and some delicious pub food – delightful!
Vintage or country pubs
have a certain charm that cannot be replicated by restaurants.
They exude a cosy English countryside vibe,
and we hope Vintage Inns will continue to maintain their traditional designs.
Patrons don’t just come to these pubs for the food;
they come for the ambiance as well.
If you compromise the quality of the food,
you risk losing not only the atmosphere but also your customers.
Cheers!
In my opinion, this pub boasts the most stunning views in Sussex –
but that’s just me, haha!
Although we had a satisfying meal,
it’s time to trek back through Friston Forest
towards the next village where we left our car.
The journey entails a two-hour walk through the woods,
so we wouldn’t want to encounter any werewolves along the way,
now would we?
Haha, anyway, until next time…bye!