What's happened?
Walk the Chalk delved into the joys of being in nature and the invigorating experience of walking on the coast, drinking in the exceptional green and blue spaces we’re so lucky to have on our doorstep.
A series of free, bookable guided walks entertained and informed visitors about the unique flora & fauna, chalk, geology, history, biodiversity and folklore of the area. Wandering performers allowed us a ghostly glimpse into the past, and a series of specially commissioned, site specific artworks sat along the path, interpreting and reflecting on the landscape, the natural world and our place within it.
Walk the Chalk brought the area alive to people who would normally struggle to access the Coast Path, using electric vehicles and all terrain mobility scooters that enabled them to experience the beauty and majesty of this very special place.
Much of Walk the Chalk’s activity takes place on a Site of Special Scientific Interest, making this a uniquely sensitive and fascinating location. It’s also part of the South Downs National Park, the Sussex Heritage Coast and a Marine Conservation Area. What better place to celebrate our new national Coast Path, incredible local heritage and truly iconic landscape?
Where did it happen?
The focus of Celebration Week was at South Hill Barn and the surrounding area. Our Accessible Art guided walks left every 30 minutes from South Hill Barn in the company of knowledgeable tour guide and traversed Hope Gap and the Coastguard Cottages before heading back up to the Barn.
A series of six large, innovative art installations surprised walkers along the route, working in sympathy with the landscape and provoking discussion and wonder. The Barn itself hosted a full programme of exhibitions, music, performance, debate and sound installations.
The Barn also hosted the fantastic Living Coast Undersea Experience throughout the five days. This immersive virtual reality experience enabled visitors to dive into Seaford Bay (without getting wet!) and discover the astonishing and unique marine wildlife of the area in three dimensions.
A range of delicious local food and drinks stalls were situated at South Hill Barn, a large fire-bowl kept everyone warm and temporary toilets were available to visitors.
Many dogs were welcome (on a lead!)
More intrepid walkers could start and end a walk at the wonderful Seven Sisters Visitor Centre at Exceat.
This route followed the England Coast Path along the West of the Cuckmere estuary, taking in the breath-taking meanders of the river and stunning coastal views, eventually joining the Accessible Art walk around Seaford Head and Hope Gap.
The Seven Sisters Visitor Centre, Pump Barn and Country Park also hosted unique Walk the Chalk events. The ‘We Hear You Now’ team offering guided walks, spoken word performances and workshops, while the Pump Barn hosted an incredible chalk installation by Katy Beinart, which visitors could visit, interact with and add to throughout Celebration Week.
A highlight of the work was a walk in the landscape at dusk on the final evening, accompanied by music and ending back in the barn with a reading by Alinah Azadeh.
The Visitor Centre has excellent facilities, including a café, shop and toilets.
Throughout Celebration Week, a further circular walk set off and returned to the View Golf Club at Seaford Head, where visitors made their own journey over the cliffs to met up with the Accessible Art route around Seaford Head and Hope Gap.
A unique feature of this walk was a suite of site specific poetry written by local poet Peter Martin triggered by QR codes.
The View has great facilities and was the perfect place to return to for refreshment and reflection on your Walk the Chalk experience.
Art and creativity
We commissioned six incredible artists who worked with local schools and community groups to create beautiful site specific installations for the main walking route of the Celebration Week.
A number of other artists and creatives also took part in the project, with special events, activities and art across the two sites and the local area.
Attendance & Tickets
Tickets for all events at South Hill Barn or Seven Sisters Country Park during our Celebration Week were sold out.
Over 15000 people attended Walk the Chalk during our celebration week.
All walks and events were free.
Cliff Safety
Cliff erosion in the area is severe and dramatic, so all walks were guided and stewarded, with routes specially marked and contained by rope and posts. We strongly advised all visitors to remain with their walking group, within the roped area and at least 10 metres from the cliff edge at all times.
The beach at Hope Gap was not accessible during Walk the Chalk as essential cliff stabilisation work needs to be carried out by Seaford Town Council.
Seaford Town
Seaford itself was buzzing with activity throughout Celebration Week. Attendees took the opportunity to explore the busy High Street with its wealth of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Visitors from further afield found plenty of welcoming accommodation in Seaford and the surrounding area.