Beachy Head, Sussex
Despite being so close to the busy towns of south east England, Beachy Head can be a haven of peace and tranquility. The headland and the nearby Seven Sisters are part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There is plenty to do in the area, apart from just walking the cliff path to take in the views. The area is a haven for those who enjoy walking, bicycling, kiting, horse riding and even hang gliding. Birling Gap , just along the coast from the headland, has a restaurant and a popular beach. In the summer many ice cream vans park up there to help cool down the revellers.
There are two lighthouses at Beachy Head. The original was built on the next headland, to the west of Beachy Head. Called the Belle Tout, the lighthouse started operation in 1834 but its light could not be seen by shipping in low mist or fog. Because of this it was decided to build a second lighthouse, this time in the sea just below Beachy Head itself. This started work in October 1902. Coastal erosion forced the Belle Tout lighthouse to be relocated a further 50 feet inland in 1999. Boat trips to take visitors around the Beachy Head lighthouse are available. Those preferring the attractions of dry land may prefer the hospitality of the Beachy Head Pub .
Unfortunately Beachy Head has an association with suicides that dates back to the 1600s. With an estimated 20 suicides per year there is now a special telephone box there with a direct line to the Samaritans, as well as regular patrols by the Beachy Head Chaplaincy Team.
The headland area has good facilities for visitors. A car park adjoins Beachy Head with public toilets that include Radar Scheme toilets for the disabled
More British Natural features?
Other Sussex Naturals
The Weald
River Mole
Romney Marsh
South Downs
River Medway
Camber Sands
Sussex Downs
Ashdown Forest
Seven Sisters
River Arun
Devil’s Dyke
Birling Gap
Cissbury Ring
Harting Down
Ditchling Down
Black Down
River Adur
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