Seaford: Bay, Coast and History

Seaford offers a coastal stay with beaches, walking paths and historic places.

Bay, Beach and Promenade

Seaford seafront curves around the bay, framed by Seaford Head and the cliffs to the east. At Splashpoint, there is an RSPB observation point for kittiwakes. Those using the promenade share it with cyclists: the Share with Care scheme there asks pedestrians and cyclists to be considerate of one another.

At Seaford Beach, you can swim in the sea, enjoy level walks and cycle. Beach huts are available to hire; there are also public toilets and free parking. Check the availability of these facilities before your visit. The Tide Mills at Seaford’s far western end reveal another side of the coast: the ruins of an old mill village are located there.

Walks and Nature

The Seaford Head Easy Access Trail is suitable for people with limited mobility, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users and pushchairs. From the route, you can see Cuckmere Haven, the coastguard cottages and the Seven Sisters. A walk along Seaford Head into Cuckmere Valley also offers views of the Seven Sisters cliffs and the river mouth. The King Charles III England Coast Path includes a section between Seaford Head and Beachy Head.

Another nature spot is the Ouse Estuary Nature Reserve between Newhaven and Seaford, which is accessible from Seaford on foot or by bike. A surfaced cycle and footpath leads to the bird hide. The path is suitable for electric buggies and wheelchairs; from the hide, you can look out over an area that is permanently wet. This makes it possible to combine coastal views and birdwatching with a visit to a distinctive wetland.

History and Culture

Martello Tower No. 74 is a Scheduled Monument. The well-preserved tower retains many of its original features, as well as a 19th-century gun barrel. Around 1810, it was added to the existing chain of 73 towers along the south coast to defend the coastline between the Rivers Ouse and Cuckmere. Seaford Museum is housed in the tower at the eastern end of Seaford seafront. Its collections include historic photographs, artefacts and documents relating to local history, as well as an 11th-century manuscript.

You can find art at the Crypt Gallery, where works by national, international and local artists and craftspeople are shown throughout the year. Check the specific exhibitions separately. Seaford Bonfire Night’s annual traditions include a torchlight procession, bonfire and a large fireworks display. These events were listed for 18 October 2025; check the programme for the relevant year if you are planning your trip around it.

More Activities for Your Stay

Seaford Head Golf Course is a hilly downland/links course on the cliffs of Seaford. It was designed and laid out in 1887. Golf adds another activity in the coastal area to the options available at the beach and on the walking paths.

Whether you’re focusing on a day at the beach, an accessible route, birdwatching or historic places, Seaford offers a range of ways to enjoy your stay.

Discover more destinations: Rodmell, Buxted, Earnley, Hurst Green, Icklesham, Vines Cross, Halland, Newhaven

For the main travel overview: East Sussex.