Despite being ranked one of the world's most beautiful hikes, the Seven Sisters Cliff Walk in East Sussex proved far more challenging than online reviews suggested, leaving one hiker with a painful knee injury. The trail was named ninth in a global list by SportsShoes.com using eye-tracking technology to measure 'eye-catching' scenery.
A reluctant hiker's birthday adventure
Parul Sharma, who describes herself as no hiker, agreed to the trek for her husband's birthday. The couple set out on a rare sunny day in an otherwise rainy week, but missed their train, arriving in Seaford an hour and a half late. The initial view of the famous chalk cliffs was stunning, but the first hill ascent left Sharma winded. She called an emergency meeting with her husband, who quickly agreed to shortcuts after seeing her red, panting face.
Despite having danced at an almost professional level for over a decade, Sharma struggled. Fit pensioners passed her as she took embarrassing pauses. The couple descended to Cuckmere Haven, where they faced the River Crossing — a highlight Sharma was determined to tackle. They removed shoes and socks, crossed the sharp, rocky river holding each other, and collapsed on the other side. Sharma called it the most memorable and fun part of the hike.
Lunch and the second leg
After a Sunday Roast and banoffee cheesecake at the Cuckmere Inn, the couple took a bus to Birling Gap for the second leg. Sharma again questioned her commitment as she huffed up a hill toward Belle Tout Lighthouse, which she found underwhelming. Another descent and climb later, they reached Beachy Head Lighthouse and clifftop, which Sharma described as drop-dead gorgeous. They enjoyed a final pint (Pimms for her) at The Beachy Head pub before heading to the bus stop.
Painful aftermath
On the walk to the bus, Sharma felt her right foot become taut and stiff, with shooting pain behind her kneecap. By the time they reached London, she had a full-blown limp, each step more painful than the last. She ended the story cursing her supposed pro-athlete fitness levels.
