East Sussex

Towering over the English Channel just west of Eastbourne, Beachy Head is Britain's tallest chalk cliff, with its bright white walls dropping about 160 metres straight into the sea. This striking headland marks the eastern edge of the South Downs, where the rolling grasslands of the national park finally reach the coast. Down on the shore sits the red-and-white striped lighthouse from the early 1900s, while the older Belle Tout lighthouse stands nearby on the cliff top, having been famously moved back from the eroding edge in 1999.

People mostly visit for the scenery, which on a clear day extends all the way to the Seven Sisters. With its windy walks, wildflowers, and grazing sheep, the area feels wild and open, making it a hit with photographers and birdwatchers. With a pub and facilities near the car park, it's a convenient and unforgettable stop for anyone exploring the coast.

The Bluebell Railway is a true pioneer, being the first preserved standard gauge passenger line in the world when it opened in 1960. It runs for eleven miles through the Sussex countryside between Sheffield Park and East Grinstead, stopping at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote along the way. Each station has been carefully restored to reflect a different era, from the Victorian age to the 1950s, giving visitors a real taste of the golden age of steam.

The railway is famous for having some of the best vintage steam engines and carriages in the UK, many of which were saved from British Railways. Passengers ride in beautifully kept period coaches through woodlands and meadows that turn bright blue with bluebells every spring. This authentic charm has made it a go-to spot for films and shows like Downton Abbey. From dining trains and galas to museum exhibits and Santa specials, there is always something happening throughout the year.