Beachy Head Cliffs
Beachy Head Cliffs are chalk headland in East Sussex that rises steeply about 160 meters above the sea. The white cliffs extend for several miles and offer expansive views across the English Channel and along the coast to distant points like Dungeness and the Isle of Wight.
The cliffs formed millions of years ago when the area was covered by sea and later exposed through land uplift. Sailors have used them as a navigation landmark for centuries, and in 1690 the Battle of Beachy Head took place in nearby waters.
The name "Beachy Head" comes from French words meaning beautiful headland and has been recorded since the 1200s. The white cliffs have become a familiar landmark in stories and art about the English coast and its seafaring heritage.
Wear sturdy shoes as paths can be uneven and the area is often windy and chilly even on sunny days. Most walking trails are well-maintained with some sections wheelchair accessible, and nearby cafes and a pub offer refreshments with views of the cliffs.
The site has become known as one of the world's most common places for suicides, prompting local groups to patrol the area and place support service numbers along the trails. The dramatic cliffs have also featured in films like Harry Potter and James Bond productions.
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