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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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“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.

 

 

 

A PEACEFUL WALK IN FRISTON FOREST
WILDFLOWERS IN FRISTON FOREST

    

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.

    

WILDFLOWERS ALONG THE FOOTPATH IN FRISTON FOREST
BEAUTIFUL ROLLING HILLS OF THE SOUTH DOWNS

    

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.

     

   

BEAUTIFUL ROLLING HILLS OF THE SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE AS SEEN FROM FRISTON FOREST
BEAUTIFUL ROLLING HILLS OF THE SUSSEX COUNTRYSIDE AS SEEN FROM FRISTON FOREST
FORESTRY COMMISSION
FRISTON FOREST
NO UNAUTHORISED VEHICLES

 

 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.

   

 

 

THE PARISH CHURCH OF ALL SAINTS WEST DEAN
FOUNDED 12TH CENTURY
ALSO SEEN: COMMONWEALTH WAR GRAVES
  
VICARAGE

 

WEST DEAN VILLAGE IN SUSSEX, ENGLAND
ONE LAST BIG CLIMB BEFORE WE ARE GREETED BY THE EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE CUCKMERE VALLEY

  

ONE LAST BIG CLIMB BEFORE WE ARE GREETED BY THE EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE CUCKMERE VALLEY
ONE LAST BIG CLIMB BEFORE WE ARE GREETED BY THE EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE CUCKMERE VALLEY
ONE LAST BIG CLIMB BEFORE WE ARE GREETED BY THE EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE CUCKMERE VALLEY

   

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.

 

 

EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE LOVELY CUCKMERE VALLEY
EXPANSIVE VIEWS OF THE LOVELY CUCKMERE VALLEY

   

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.

 

 

CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER

   

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!

 

 

 

CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER

   

“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.”

 

 

CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER

   

“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 VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE RIVER
LAZY DAYS BY THE CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE VALLEY AND CUCKMERE RIVER
CUCKMERE RIVER IN CUCKMERE HAVEN
CUCKMERE RIVER IN CUCKMERE HAVEN
CUCKMERE RIVER IN CUCKMERE HAVEN
A RELAXING WALK IN 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.”

 

 

ROLLING HILLS OF THE CUCKMERE VALLEY

   

“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?

     

CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE STUNNING CHALK CLIFFS OF THE SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK.

 

CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE CUCKMERE RIVER HEADING OUT TO SEA.

   

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.

 

 

CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH

   

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.

   

 

CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE ICONIC CHALK CLIFFS OF SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK

   

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.

    

 

CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE ICONIC CHALK CLIFFS OF SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
CUCKMERE RIVER MEETING UP WITH THE SEA AT CUCKMERE HAVEN
CUCKMERE RIVER MEETING UP WITH THE SEA AT CUCKMERE HAVEN
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
SHINGLES (SMALL ROUNDED PEBBLES) AT CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
SHINGLES (SMALL ROUNDED PEBBLES) CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH SHINGLE

 

 

CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND SOME LIGHTLEIGHT TREKKING POLES.

   

CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE ICONIC CHALK CLIFFS OF SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
        
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AND THE ICONIC CHALK CLIFFS OF SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
 
CUCKMERE HAVEN AND THE SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
CUCKMERE HAVEN AND THE SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
A VIEW FROM THE HILLTOP AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
 
A VIEW FROM THE HILLTOP AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH AS SEEN FROM THE HILLTOP AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
  
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
PLEASE BE WARNED THAT THE CHALK CLIFFS ARE VERY UNSTABLE
AND THE MATERIALS UNDERFOOT ARE VERY LOOSE.
DANGER OF FALLING!
  
CUCKMERE HAVEN AS SEEN FROM SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK HILLTOP
   
CUCKMERE HAVEN AS SEEN FROM SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK HILLTOP
  
HILLTOP VIEW AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
   
CUCKMERE HAVEN AS SEEN FROM THE HILLTOP AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
     
The wind has grown cold,
signaling that it’s time for us to make our way down the hill
and head to the pub.
      
  
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH WITH A VIEW OF THE SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
  
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH WITH A VIEW OF THE SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
  
CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
  
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE HAVEN BEACH
  
A LOVELY WALK IN CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
LOVELY WALK IN CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
LOVELY WALK IN CUCKMERE VALLEY
  
GENTLE HERD OF SHEEP GRAZING THE FIELD
 
LOVELY WALK IN CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE RIVER AND CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK CAR PARK
  
MR. WHIPPY ICE CREAM VAN
 
 
A259 EAST DEAN ROAD
 
A259 EAST DEAN ROAD
TRADITIONAL BUILDINGS HERE ARE MADE OF COMBINATION BRICKS AND SHINGLES (SMALL ROUNDED PEBBLES)
WHICH ARE LOCALLY SOURCED.
 
SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
A259 EAST DEAN ROAD
 
CUCKMERE RIVER
 
CUCKMERE RIVER AND SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK CAR PARK
 
CUCKMERE RIVER
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
 
CUCKMERE RIVER AT SEVEN SISTERS COUNTRY PARK
 
CUCKMERE INN
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE RIVER
    
CUCKMERE RIVER
 
 
 
    
Ha, at long last, the pub!
    
    
 
CUCKMERE INN
 
   
    
     
TRANSCRIPT:
    
    
 

 WELCOME TO CUCKMERE VALLEY

      
 

A NATURAL HAVEN?

 
With Sussex’s only undeveloped river haven
the Cuckmere Valley has an untouched feel, 
but human influence over thousands of years 
has shaped the valley we see today. 
           
   
 

MAN AND THE CUCKMERE
      

 
Medieval farmers contained the river with banks 
and dug ditches to drain the floodplain to improve agriculture. 
 
Sections of the meandering river were straightened 
into fast corridors to aid navigation and trade
The most impressive is the half mile cut 
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
    
   

 
Seen as a likely invasion point, 
the valley was fortified with pill boxes and tank traps
The Valley also acted as a decoy for Newhaven’s port, 
using lights at night to confuse the pilots of enemy aircraft. 
    
       
 

WILDLIFE
   
 

From the vegetated shingle at the rivers mouth 
to the chalk grassland of Cradle Valley
the wildlife of the Cuckmere Valley 
is a diverse mix of coast and countryside
     
 
Specialised shingle plants like 
Sea-kale and Yellow Horned-poppy 
have adapted to these harsh conditions. 
     
 
The exposed mudflats are a natural larder 
providing food for waders such as 
Redshank and Oystercatchers 
and the remnants of salt marsh are vegetated by plants 
such as Sea-purslane, Glasswort 
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/

    
     
   

 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
 
CUCKMERE VALLEY
  
        
This is the pathway leading from the pub,
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!
        
    
A GLASS OF COFFEE, A PINT OF LAGER, AND SOME DELICIOUS PUB GRUB
 
     

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!

  
 
COSY ENGLISH INTERIORS AT CUCKMERE INN
 
A259 EAST DEAN ROAD AS SEEN FROM CUCKMERE INN
 
 
A VIEW OF CUCKMERE VALLEY AS SEEN FROM CUCKMERE INN
 
A VIEW OF CUCKMERE VALLEY AS SEEN FROM CUCKMERE INN
 
A VIEW OF CUCKMERE VALLEY AS SEEN FROM CUCKMERE INN
     

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! 

 

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