Cuckmere Haven
Cuckmere Haven is a shingle beach on England's south coast backed by tall chalk cliffs. The shore consists of small pebbles, and the river flows gently into the sea while the white Seven Sisters cliffs rise behind it.
Cuckmere Haven was a smuggling site in the 16th and 17th centuries where illegal goods moved along the coast. During World War II, the British military built defensive structures like pillboxes and anti-tank obstacles to prevent potential invasion.
The name Cuckmere Haven comes from the Cuckmere River that flows into the sea here. The area draws walkers who follow the winding paths along the meandering river and look up at the white chalk cliffs rising above.
Swimming is not recommended here as pollution and bacteria from nearby towns can be problematic. Wear sturdy shoes since the beach is made of rough stones, and note that there are no seating areas or facilities on the shore itself.
Old coastguard cottages perch on the cliff top and face danger from ongoing erosion that has claimed over 30 meters of land in recent decades. The wreck of the ship Polynesia becomes partly visible at low tide, serving as a reminder of maritime history.
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