The Undercliff Walk in Brighton is one of the city’s most unique and scenic coastal paths, offering a rare combination of dramatic chalk cliffs, the invigorating sea breeze, and a safe, flat route perfect for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Stretching for approximately 4.5 kilometres (around 2.7 miles) from Brighton Marina to Saltdean, this path lies at the very base of towering white chalk cliffs, giving it an intimate yet awe-inspiring atmosphere. Unlike a cliff-top trail that offers panoramic views from above, the Undercliff Walk immerses you directly in the environment—waves crash against the seawall just metres away, seabirds wheel overhead, and the cliff face itself looms majestically beside you. It’s a walk where you can experience the raw power of the English Channel and the geological splendour of the Sussex coast, all while being just a short distance from Brighton’s vibrant city centre.
A Path Built from Necessity and Preservation
The Undercliff Walk is not only a recreational route but also a functional sea defence structure. Originally constructed in the late 1930s, it was designed to protect the base of the fragile chalk cliffs from relentless coastal erosion caused by wind, rain, and tidal forces. The cliffs between Brighton and Saltdean are formed from soft chalk, which is particularly vulnerable to erosion, and without protective measures, the retreat of the coastline could have been severe. The seawall and promenade were engineered to absorb and deflect the energy of incoming waves, safeguarding both the cliffs and the land above.
While the engineering work had a clear practical purpose, it also created a public space unlike anything else in the region. Once complete, the Undercliff Walk became a popular leisure destination, especially during the post-war years when seaside holidays and day trips were booming. Today, it remains an essential part of Brighton’s seafront infrastructure and a beloved attraction for both locals and visitors.
The Route – From Marina to Saltdean
Most people begin their walk at Brighton Marina, where the path starts beside the bustling harbour filled with yachts, fishing boats, and restaurants. From here, the route heads east, hugging the base of the cliffs for its entire length. One of the most distinctive features of the Undercliff Walk is its feeling of separation from the city above. Once you’re on the path, you are cocooned between the sheer cliff face on one side and the open sea on the other, with the sounds of traffic replaced by the rhythmic wash of waves.
Along the way, you pass a series of small staircases and ramps that lead up to the cliff-top, where grassy spaces and residential areas offer alternative views. The path is popular with cyclists, so walkers need to stay aware of bikes gliding past, but there’s generally enough room for everyone.
About halfway along the walk lies Rottingdean, a charming historic village that makes for an ideal rest stop. Here, visitors can take a short detour inland to explore narrow streets, traditional pubs, independent shops, and the lovely village green. From Rottingdean, the Undercliff Walk continues east towards Saltdean, where the famous Saltdean Lido—an Art Deco swimming pool—sits just a short stroll from the route’s end.
Spectacular Cliffs and Coastal Wildlife
The chalk cliffs that flank the Undercliff Walk are part of the same geological formation that gives rise to the famous Seven Sisters cliffs further east. They are composed of fine-grained white chalk interspersed with flint, creating a striking contrast between the smooth white surfaces and the darker, glassy flint nodules. Over the years, weathering has created fascinating patterns, fissures, and overhangs, making the cliffs themselves an attraction.
These cliffs also support a surprising array of wildlife. During spring and summer, seabirds such as kittiwakes, fulmars, and gulls nest in crevices high above. On sunny days, you might see kestrels hovering in the updrafts, scanning for prey in the grasslands above the cliff. At low tide, the rocky shoreline reveals seaweed-covered pools teeming with crabs, small fish, and anemones, making it a great spot for rockpooling if you venture carefully onto the beach sections.
Changing Moods of the Walk
One of the great joys of the Undercliff Walk is how dramatically it changes with the weather and seasons. On a bright summer’s day, the sea sparkles in shades of turquoise and deep blue, and the chalk cliffs shine brilliantly in the sunlight. Families, joggers, and cyclists share the path, while anglers cast lines from the seawall into the channel below.
In autumn and winter, the walk takes on a completely different character. The waves can crash with tremendous force against the seawall, sending sprays of saltwater over the path. The sky often shifts quickly from sun to storm clouds, creating a dramatic backdrop. During such times, sections of the walk may be closed for safety, as high tides and rough seas can make it dangerous.
This variability means that no two visits are the same, and regular walkers often remark on how the changing light and sea conditions give the path a unique personality each day.
Health and Leisure Benefits
The Undercliff Walk is ideal for people seeking both gentle exercise and fresh sea air. The flat, paved surface makes it accessible for all fitness levels, including families with pushchairs and wheelchair users in many sections. For runners, it offers an uninterrupted stretch without road crossings, and for cyclists, it’s a scenic alternative to city riding.
Beyond its physical benefits, the walk offers a form of mental refreshment that comes from being close to nature. The sound of waves, the salty tang of the air, and the uninterrupted horizon have a calming effect, making it a favourite route for those looking to de-stress.
Points of Interest Along the Way
- Brighton Marina – The starting point for many, offering restaurants, shops, and boat tours.
- Rottingdean – A picturesque village with a rich history, once home to author Rudyard Kipling.
- Sea Defence Engineering – The design of the seawall itself is fascinating for those interested in coastal engineering.
- Saltdean Lido – An iconic Art Deco landmark that has been restored and is open for public swimming in summer.
Practical Tips for Visitors
- Check the Tides and Weather – In stormy conditions, waves can crash over the path, making it slippery or impassable.
- Bring Layers – Even on warm days, the wind along the coast can be brisk.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – While the path is flat, you’ll likely want to continue exploring villages or beaches along the way.
- Mind the Cyclists – The path is shared, so stay to one side to allow others to pass safely.
A Coastal Treasure
The Undercliff Walk is more than just a route from Brighton Marina to Saltdean—it’s an immersive coastal experience that brings you face-to-face with the elemental forces shaping the Sussex shoreline. Whether you’re a local enjoying a daily jog, a tourist seeking a peaceful stroll, or a photographer chasing dramatic seascapes, the Undercliff Walk offers something truly special.
It embodies Brighton’s blend of natural beauty, history, and accessibility, allowing anyone to step away from the busy city and into a world where the horizon stretches endlessly, waves roll in from the Channel, and the chalk cliffs rise like ancient guardians beside you. Once you’ve experienced it, the Undercliff Walk has a way of drawing you back again and again, each time offering a new mood, a new light, and a fresh breath of sea air.
