1. For the Homebody

Mason & Painter – Nestled on Columbia Road amongst the hustle and bustle of the flower market is Mason & Painter. Here you can find antique homewares with a shabby chic touch. The entire shop is thoughtfully curated and would be something special for someone special.

Oneironaut – You will smell Oneironaut on Brick Lane before you see it! This handmade candle and incense shop creates unique crave-able scents that anyone on your list would be happy to fill their home with. Bonus, the candles come in clay pots that can be reused for flowers or pants once you have used up the candle.

Labour and Wait – Well-designed products that people will actually use? Look no further than Labour and Wait. From hardware to clothing, they offer a top-notch selection of timeless goods.

2. For the Trendsetter

Aida – Part cafe, part independent concept store, make sure to visit Aida. They carry Scandinavian style menswear and womenswear, as well as homeware. Simple and unique, you can rest assured anything bought from Aida is quality. Many of the brands they carry are also eco conscious, including my favourite, the Girlfriend Collective.

Article – These guys pride themselves on stocking globally sourced streetwear and do a damn good job of it. Great stop for the fashion forward man in your life, seeing as they only stock menswear. Not a fashion forward man? Fret not. They also have a great homeware and unisex accessories selection.

Goodhood – Effortlessly cool. Like most places in Shoreditch, you may even question if you’re hip enough to be there. Jokes aside! You can always count on Goodhood to have a highly curated selection of minimalist menswear, womenswear and lifestyle luxuries.

3. For the Luxe Lounger

Okay, confession. I can’t be sure that any of these next three brands are located in East London. BUT, they are local to London and are worth considering as a gift for any loved on.

Desmond & Dempsey – Pyjamas that will make sleeping feel like a special occasion. I especially love the eclectic and unique prints their sets come in. You can read about how each print has been created on their website.

Drift Sleepwear – Another brand to brighten up bedtime is Drift Sleepwear. They create punchy men’s pyjamas and pride themselves on being sustainability focused.

Beija– Beautiful lingerie made for women of all shapes and sizes. Whether gifting it or getting it, Beija is sure to make the recipient feel spicy and special!

4. For the Hobbyist

Skandihus – Give the gift of a new skill with pottery classes at Skandihaus. They offer taster classes for those trying out pottery for the first time, as well as 6 or 12 week long courses for students looking to advance their skills and meet new people in the process.

Flashback Records– Since getting a record player 6 months ago, we have loved collecting vinyls from artists old and new. If there is a music lover in your life, vinyls feel extra thoughtful. Just make sure they have a record play to play them on! Flashback Records has three stores in London, the Islington location being our favourite. Their staff is always super helpful and their selection is incredible.

5. For the Little Ones

Luna & Curious – This shop aaalmost has me longing for a tiny human. Luna & Curious is the perfect stop for unique clothes, toys and books for the kids in your life. They also carry gorgeous homewares and accessories for the grown ups. How’s that for one-stop shopping?

Bob and Blossom – This shop makes their own line of pint-sized apparel ranging from super soft t-shirts and sweatshirts to tutus and capes. Check out Bob and Blossom, in addition to a number of other great shoppes on this list, while visiting the Columbia Road flower market.

6. For the Coffee Craver

Hackney Coffee Co – One my favourite cafes in London to hole up for the afternoon with my laptop, a big cup of coffee, and a pastry. Hackney Coffee Co make their own speciality coffee. The perfect gift for the caffeine addict on your list.  

Sabretooth Hoxton – Our local coffee shoppe, I visit Sabretooth Hoxton at least twice a week. Not only do they make a fantastic cup of coffee, they also stock a wonderful array of local goods ranging from coffee and speciality sweets to jams and sauces. 

7. For the Foodie

A Portuguese Love Affair – This deli, wine shop, and cafe is voted as having the best pastel de nata in the UK, which is one very good reason to visit. A Portuguese Love Affair is one of my favourite restaurants in London for a casual afternoon and absolutely can’t be missed. Another good reason to visit is their fantastic selection of wines, beautifully packaged tin fish, and hand-picked selection of wholesale goods. 

Little Duck the Picklery – A fermenting kitchen and wine bar in Dalston, this restaurant is a real gem. If you can treat someone to breakfast, lunch, or dinner around their communal kitchen counter, don’t think twice. If not, Little Duck make seasonal ferments, pickles, and drinks ready for takeaway. They also have a seriously good selection of natural wines. 

8. For the Green Thumb

Grace & Thorn – This East London florist prides themselves on making no two floral arrangements the same and each one is more swoon-worthy than the last. Grace & Thorn also carry house plants, homewares, and seriously stunning hand-wrapped gift boxes. If I haven’t convinced you, a visit to their shop will. You’ll be struggling to leave empty handed. 

In Bloom & In Habit – Two shops are better than one? For In Bloom and In Habit this much is true. In Bloom is my go-to shop for beautiful vases and plant pots, while In Habit offers lovely stationary and home decor. The shops are located right next to each other on Columbia Road, so you’re sure to find something special without having to go too far. 

9. For the Tipple Tipper

Seven Seasons Bottle Shop – Who doesn’t need a drink or two after this dumpster fire of a year? Yes, 2020 I’m looking at you. If it is beer you fancy, be sure to check out Seven Season’s seriously impressive selection. They also sell ciders, wines and spirits if you’re looking for something of the less hoppy variety. 

Passione Vino – For my fellow winos out there, look no further than Passione Vino. This sassy wine shop proudly stocks small, independent, Italian wines. Perfect to grab something different and delicious for your next dinner party or something special for a wine-loving friend.

10. For the Book Worm

Artwords Bookshop – This independent book shop has two locations, one in Shoreditch and the other in London Fields. Artwords stock books and magazines on contemporary visual culture, all of which are beautiful and would be ideal for anyone’s coffee table. 

Word on the Water – Arguably saving the best for last, meet Word on the Water. A 100 year old Dutch barge with a vast selection of second hand and new books. If that doesn’t sound majestic enough, they also have a wood burning stove onboard and host acoustic music artists on their roof stage. If you’re looking for a particular book, you can request it through their website ahead of time. They also offer 6-month book subscriptions and pre-loved book boxes. 

Conclusion to Our East London Gift Guide

If there are any shops I missed, please comment below! We are so lucky to have countless incredible small businesses in East London and I look forward to continuing to discover more. If you’re looking for additional small businesses across London to check out, be sure to read my Guide to Supporting Local Businesses During & After Lockdown, which I put together with a handful of local London travel bloggers. 

No matter the holiday or occasion, I am confident there is something for everyone in our East London Gift Guide. Happy shopping!

The post Support Local: East London Gift Guide appeared first on trust me travel.

KAITLYN, Founder & Photographer at Trust Me Travel (The blog You’re on Now ♥)

@trustmetravel | www.trustme-travel.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

Atis, a local eatery near Old Street, continues cooking up a delicious assortment of seasonal salads and grain bowls. I love their mission of serving ‘powerful food’. Food that tastes good and does good – for the body, the soul, and the planet. Food you can feel good about eating, and a business you can feel good about supporting.

How can we support them during lockdown?

Atis has been brilliantly resilient during these turbulent times. They are open for lunch and dinner, Monday-Friday. You can order directly from their Old Street location with hands-free service, you can order from their website and collect from the shop, or you can order to your doorstep through Deliveroo. In addition to their standard menu, you can also stock up at their shop on milk (and their alternative counterparts), eggs, hand made granola, coffee, rice, quinoa and a number of other pantry favourites. 

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

Any of their curated seasonal bowls, which are always changing. They do a phenomenal job of working with local purveyors to showcase yummy seasonal produce. To wash it down, a kombucha is usually my go-to. 

What are you looking forward to enjoying there again after lockdown? 

After lockdown, I’m really looking forward to securing a window seat in their shop, grabbing a flat white and a salad bowl, and settling in for the afternoon.

@atisfoodldn | www.atisfood.com

ELKE FROTSCHER, architect, storyteller, travel photographer at @ELICE_F • ELKEFROTSCHER.COM

@elice_f | www.elkefrotscher.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

Wood St Coffee. As a freelance design consultant and photographer, coffee shops meant a lot to me before the lockdown. When not travelling on assignment, but editing and writing, I love the atmosphere, the white noise, the community of London’s independent coffee culture. Wood St Coffee roast their own beans, serve excellent healthy food and are amazing people keeping not only craftsmen and statist of the Blackhorse Workshops caffeinated, fed and connected.

How can we support them during lockdown?

They kept their space open to customers as long as possible, selling local produce and coffee beans until they had to close the café, but they’re still roasting now. They’ll deliver whole or ground beans to locals and ship to areas that are not within bicycle reach. 

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

I have a grinder at home, so I use their whole beans and now have different kinds in my kitchen, for various brewing methods. They have put together online tutorials on how to make good coffee at home and share their recipes too now.

What are you looking forward to enjoying there again after lockdown? 

I’m looking forward to sitting in their plant filled but uncluttered space, working on my laptop and chatting with Gareth, the owner/roaster about community, coffee and life in general – while having a cup of coffee. My coffee making skills have improved since they closed their doors, but it’s just not the same!

@woodstcoffee | www.woodstcoffee.co.uk

EMPIRE TRAVELLER, Where to go and what to eat, Around the world with MONIA

@empiretraveller | www.empiretraveller.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

Stoney Street by 26 Grains, a small restaurant in Borough Market by the lovely Henrietta Inman.

What do you love most about them?

Their ability to create such delectable dishes from only a few ingredients. Their attention to quality produce and seasonality makes the simplicity of their food that much better. And the place is just full of joy.

How can we support them during lockdown?

Though they’re not operating a delivery system, we can support Stoney Street by following along on their Instagram for updates, volunteering opportunities, or recipes to make at home and share online. Tagging them in photos from past visits or the recipes you try at home, I’m sure, would make them really happy.

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

The Einkorn Soda Bread with butter & jam. Hands down, one of the best breads I’ve had in London.

What are you looking forward to enjoying there again after lockdown?

After lockdown, I’m looking forward to having breakfast there again; sitting by the window with warm soda bread, fresh coffee, and a new day in Borough Market unfolding before me.

@stoneystreet26 | www.26grains.com

MARK & PAUL, the curious & adventurous travel bloggers at ANYWHERE WE ROAM

@anywhereweroam | www.anywhereweroam.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

We love Honey & Co, a tiny diner serving Middle Eastern street food in Fitzrovia. Their intensively flavoured salads and vegetarian brunch sharing platters have us lining up for a stool by the window whenever we’re in London. While they’ve expanded now with an additional restaurant, they haven’t lost their independent vibe.

How can we support them during lockdown?

Easy. They’ve started doing pickup dinners where you can order a 2-course set menu which you collect from their Warren Street store. Tonight we’re having BBQ tahini eggplant with jewelled rice with creamy feta dip with olives. Meat eaters will be enjoying slow cooked lamb braised in tomatoes and red wine. It’s a great way to keep them going during lockdown and having a night off from cooking yourself.  

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

Their cookbook, Food From the Middle East, is full of heart-warming and inspiring recipes complete with beautiful photography.

What are you looking forward to enjoying there again after lockdown? 

After lockdown, we’re looking forward to squeezing into their tiny diner, ordering a coffee and devouring their feta cheesecake on kadaif pastry with thyme-scented honey.

@honeyandco | www.honeyandco.co.uk

CHELSEA, Exploring the Globe Efficiently and Authentically on THE PORTABLE WIFE

@theportablewife | www.theportablewife.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

John Sandoe Books. John Sandoe Books is delightfully cozy, with narrow wooden staircases and shelves that feel more like an old library than a commercial space. They also offer a bespoke subscription service, where a staff member will hand-pick books you might like based on your personal taste. Their bookshop is a shining example of how small businesses can stand out amidst a crowded commercial market.

How can we support them during lockdown?

Although the storefront is closed, their staff is available by phone, email, or post for mail orders. You can browse their current catalog and featured books on their website, or send in a request for a specific book. They’re also offering thematic book bundles during lockdown, including Classic Crime and 20th Century Novels.

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

Fantasy and historical fiction are my favorite genres, and I love buying travel guides before a big trip.

What are you looking forward to enjoying there again after lockdown? 

I miss the thrill of wandering through John Sandoe’s shelves and discovering new stories to love. Ebooks serve a purpose, but there’s nothing quite like the feeling of cracking open a physical book.

@johnsandoebooks | www.johnsandoe.com

ISABEL CHAI, content creator at BEL’S TRAILS

@bels_trails | www.belstrails.com

What is an adored London business of yours?

One of my all-time favourite bakeries in London is Crosstown Doughnuts.

What do you love most about them?

Their handcrafted doughnuts are always so beautifully made, and they taste just as good as they look. I love that they constantly experiment with flavours, not just with toppings and fillings, but also by adding interesting twists to their signature sourdough. 

How can we support them during lockdown?

If you’re still struggling to book supermarket delivery slots, or simply want to limit your trips out for essentials, Crosstown’s here to help. They have recently teamed up with independent local brands to deliver curated food boxes in and around London. They’ve also set up an option to donate grocery or doughnut boxes to a number of London hospitals as a way to thank those who have been working tirelessly on the frontlines.  

What is your favourite item(s) to order from there?

Their vegan collective boxes have been a real treat during lockdown, but if we’re only on the subject of doughnuts, then it has to be their matcha tea ones. I’m a lover of all things matcha, so that’s a clear winner in my eyes! 

@crosstowndoughnuts | www.crosstowndoughnuts.com

Conclusion

As they say, this too shall pass. I hope you enjoy this guide to supporting local businesses in London and wherever you are in the world, are staying healthy and safe. 

The post London Travel Bloggers: Guide to Supporting Local Businesses During & After Lockdown appeared first on trust me travel.

Europe truly has something for everyone, and winter time is no exception. I have broken down our top European winter destinations into four categories: Best Winter Nature Escapes, Best Winter City Breaks, Best Christmas Vibes, and Best Skiing Destinations. Whatever you fancy for a trip this holiday season, we hope you can find some inspiration here.  Without further ado, our 11 Top Winter Destinations in Europe! 

Best Winter Nature Escapes in Europe

1. Slovenia 

Slovenia, by far one of our favorite winter destinations in Europe. We were positively blown away by our visit to Slovenia. From the unforgettable scenery of Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, to the funky and colorful streets of Ljubljana, Slovenia is a one stop shop. The best part? The country still feels somewhat undiscovered by tourists, especially during the winter months. Hurry in booking your trip. We have to imagine word will spread sooner rather than later. We’ve put together a complete guide to Lake Bled, Slovenia that’s definitely worth a read before you visit. 

2. Finland

Famously home to Santa Claus himself, you’ll be hard pressed to find a winter destinations list not suggesting a visit to Finland for the holidays. While we’re dying to experience the winter scenery and a reindeer ride through the forrest, at the top of our bucket list is catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Combine this with overnight stays in your own personal igloo? K, enough said.

Best Winter City Breaks in Europe

3. Copenhagen, Denmark

Maybe not the first destination that comes to mind, but 100% worth noting in best winter destinations in Europe. There is a Danish concept of ‘hygge‘, which represents a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment. One, the fact that the Danes have a specific word for this explains how important it is. Two, arguably no city does hygge better than Copenhagen. It’s the perfect place for a weekend winter getaway. Read our post on Things to See & Do in Copenhagen when you go, as well as Where to Eat & Drink. 

4. Italy

Perhaps another curve ball! Stay with me though. We visited Northern Italy during January last year, and it was a dream. Is Venice on your bucket list? We highly suggest going during the colder months. This time of year is off-peak, meaning less crowds and more picturesque canal views to yourself. Check out my post on 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Venice in Winter. I have a feeling you’ll be easily convinced. After Venice, carry on to Verona where hill-top views, castles, and unbelievable food will all blow your mind. I’ve put together a post on What to See & Do in Verona when you go. Have time to spare? Nearby Lago di Garda is a famous Italian summer destination, but the winter months also offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, eating, or just relaxing by the lake.

5. Belgium

The whimsical architecture featured across the cities of Belgium has me convinced they were designed for winter strolls. Add in warm Belgian chocolate, fluffy waffles, and a few creamy Belgian ales? We’re sold. Brussels is incredibly easy to reach via train from cities such as London and Amsterdam. Perfect for a weekend getaway. Ever seen the movie ‘In Bruges’? Not only is it a phenomenal film, but it showcases the charm and beauty of Bruges. A bit harder to reach, but for sure worth the effort!

Best Christmas Markets in Europe

6. Germany

Germany arguably does Christmas markets better than any country in the world. In our opinion, the top destination include Nuremberg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, both equally famous for their Christmas markets. Check out our post detailing a full guide to 24 Hours in Nuremberg and Discovering Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The great news? Both are fairly easy to see in the same trip. If you have three or more days to dedicate to your holiday, we highly suggest a road trip through southern Germany, taking a route called the Romantic Road. It’s easy to navigate with pit stops to wander in medieval towns, explore ancient castles, enjoy alpine scenery, and of course, get lost in the Christmas markets. Be sure to read our post on the Romantic Road in Germany for the ultimate guide and itinerary.

7. Austria

Austria is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Vienna boasts an incredible Christmas market, full of charm and holiday cheer with the backdrop of the ornate city center. Vienna is also very accessible, so reasonably-priced flights and trains should be easy to find. Hallstatt, while not as easy to get to, is straight out of a postcard. Imagine a serene lake, reflecting colorful cottages and towering snow capped mountains. Yeah, we can’t wait to visit either.

8. England

As self-proclaimed Londoners, we would be remissed to not include the country we call home on this list. Yes, we may be a bit biased, but the English bloody love the holidays and show it in many ways. London is the most obvious of destinations. Head to Oxford Street to marvel at the lights and shop the high street, then tuck into the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland for a tipple and some nibbles. Looking for a classic English cottage to hide away for the weekend? We’re dying to escape to the Cotswolds to do just that.

Best Skiing Destinations in Europe

9. Slovakia

Perhaps not top of your list or even on your list at all, but we would argue it should be! Home to the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia is the place to visit for great skiing without the hefty price tag. Fun fact, Dave’s dad is from Slovakia and his family still lives there. This always gives us an excuse to visit, and we wish we did more often. Jasna is the main skiing region. Before planning a trip, check out a great post here by the Guardian.

10. France

Next to Austria and Switzerland, France offers some of the best skiing in Europe. We’re hoping to visit Chamonix this season, home to one of the oldest resorts in the region. Read Culture Trip’s guide for inspiration on other regions and destinations that are worth a visit.

11. Switzerland

Notoriously expensive, but worth every penny. Skiing on the Swiss Alps? That’s a bucket list item to cross off. Read this guide by the Telegraph for insight into the best ski regions in Switzerland, depending on what you’re looking for out of the trip.

Conclusion

One of my favorite parts about Europe is how vastly different each country is, yet how easy it is to move between them. I hope you get an opportunity to make it to one of our top winter destinations in Europe, or maybe even a couple. Be sure to let me know when you do!

The post 11 Top Winter Destinations in Europe appeared first on trust me travel.

We left plans for our end of summer bank holiday to the last minute. The weather forecast was calling for 25 degrees and sunshine. It was too perfect to not get out of the city and head for the sea. We began scouring the internet for places to go, when I stumbled upon an Airbnb Experience by Cornish Wave: a two-day getaway promising surf, sun and camping in Newquay, Cornwall. We were hooked, and 2 hours later, our holiday plans were booked. It was the perfect weekend getaway and exactly what we needed to recharge. Read on to learn more about the experience, as well as our favorite things to do in Newquay, Cornwall. 

Things To Do In Newquay

1. Go Surfing in Newquay

Newquay is probably most well-known for their surfing. When you arrive in town, this is immediately apparent from the streets lined with surf schools. Large groups of eager surfers begin to hold up traffic, as they clumsily carry surf boards twice their size to the beach.

Dave and I have surfed a few times, and we’ve recently become pretty hooked. Whether you’ve never stepped foot on a surf board, or shred massive swells in your sleep, Cornish Wave has you covered. They provide lessons for every level, or you can just rent a board and wetsuit and get on with it.

2. Visit Fistral Beach

Fistral Beach is hands down the best beach we have been to in England. For starters, it is all sand! A rare contrast to the typical rock beaches found along most of the English coast.

Surf until you can’t feel your arms, and then pass out atop the sandy hill at the entrance to the beach for a panoramic view of Newquay’s coast.

3. Try Coasteering in Cornwall

Ever heard of Coasteering? Neither had we, but what an incredible way to see the coast of Newquay! Suited up in wet suits, trainers, helmets and life vests, we jumped off of the cliffs and into the crystal clear sea below.  We swam all along the coast, winding through sea caves and traversing over the rocky bluffs. Around every corner we would exit the water, climb up another cliff, and jump back into the water to swim to the next spot. According to our guides at Cornish Wave, it is becoming a popular activity in Cornwall and Wales, and we are fully supportive!

4. Walk Along Towan Headland

If you’re not up for coasteering, we highly suggest walking along the Towan Headland. This is the area where we went coasteering. The views are special, and it’s an easy walk from town with plenty of walking paths and benches along the way. 

5. Have a Cream Tea

A Cornish classic, the pairing of a pot of tea and a scone topped with clotted cream is quite divine. Not a big tea person? Too hot for tea? Tons of the shops sell clotted cream flavored ice cream. Yep, sign us up for a scoop.

One of our favorite restaurants we visited while in Newquay was the Harbour Rest Cafe. Lovely sandwiches, scones and tea, in addition to great service and top-notch English seaside cottage vibes. 

6. Eat a Cornish Pasty

Cornwall is famous for pasties. Pronounced with a hard “a” like nasty, although they are the farthest thing from nasty. Similar to a hot pocket, but way better, they are traditionally filled with potatoes and beef. For our veggie lovers, they also have cheese and onion options.

We grabbed pasties for the road from a little street stand called South Quay Kitchen. Beware: after eating one of these bad boys, a nap will be necessary..

7. Explore the Newquay Surf Shops

Every other shop on Newquay’s high street is a surf shop. Our favorite was the MMW Store. Really well-curated, with a combo of homewares and men’s and women’s apparel. They’ll have you wanting to redesign your entire flat, and as a bonus you can enjoy an ice cold drink at their front porch tiki bar.

8. Drive the Cornish Backroads 

Hands down one of my favorite parts about visiting Cornwall is driving the backroads. Narrow, winding, and often only one-way, these aren’t for the faint hearted. But boy are they beautiful. Lush walls of wildflowers and arching trees will have you feeling like you are tunneling through a fairytale. Crank the windows down and music all the way up.

9. Sample Newquay Cafes

Amongst the surf shops are some of the best cafes we’ve been to in a while. Head to Fore Street Cafe Bar for an amazing smoothie bowl, overflowing with fresh fruit. They also have tons of seating, so you can nestle in and enjoy a coffee while you’re at it. Across the road is Pavillion, famous for their pastries and breads. A good on the go option. Lastly, check out Box & Barber Coffeehouse. Cool-kid coffee vibes and brunch options that nearly all come with half an avocado. We aren’t complaining. 

10. Camp in the Cornish Countryside on an Adventure Weekend with Cornish Wave

After spending the day in the sun and sand, why not retire to a dairy farm campground in the Cornish countryside? Jey and the team at Cornish Wave have outdone themselves again. With any of their Adventure Weekends, you can spend the night on their campground.

Nestled in the woods, they’ve set up the perfect oasis to disconnect and relax. Prepare dinner on the barbecue, cozy up around the campfire with a nice big glass of red wine, and retire to your airbed in a white canvas bell tent. Kitted out with an activity area including axe throwing, jenga, and tight-roping, this place ticked all the boxes. 

With Cornish Wave’s adventure weekends, you can choose your activities from surfing and coasteering, yoga, or just camping. Either way, you can’t go wrong! Book your weekend here, and be sure to let us know if and when you do!

The post Things To Do In Newquay – A Weekend in Cornwall appeared first on trust me travel.

Since moving to London we are always looking for great day trips in and around England. The Seven Sisters Hike is one of our favorites so far.

Seven stark white chalk cliffs covered in thick green grass, these ladies are like nothing we have seen before. Absolutely worth the trip, check out our tips for the hike below.

How to Get There: London to Seaford or Eastbourne

Great news! It is fairly easy to get to the Seven Sisters from London by train. Best route is from Victoria Station to Seaford, which will make the journey approximately 1.5 hours. You can then take the train back to Victoria Station from Eastbourne or Seaford, pending how long you want to make the hike. We love using Trainline to compare prices and purchase tickets.

Bonus: Our favorite route has you change trains in Brighton. Make a weekend out of it and enjoy the beach town of Brighton for a day on the way there or back!

Warning! Pay attention to your return train options. Last train back to London is around midnight. Don’t ask us how, but we ended up missing this train and had to cab all the way back to London. Not pretty…

Seaford to Eastbourne Walking Route

When arriving in Seaford, follow the crowds towards the beach. Take in the quaint seaside scenes while you’re there, but also make a stop at the public toilets. Next opportunity will be approximately 2 hours from now.

Walking along the promenade, you won’t be able to miss the cliffs. Standing proud against the coastline, follow the clearly marked path into Seaford Head Nature Reserve. The amazing views start here with a sweeping panoramic of grass and sea. Crazy enough, this isn’t even the hike itself yet. Continue on and soon the peaks of the Seven Sisters cliffs will appear in the distance.

Eventually the cliff side will begin to decline into Cuckmere Haven. The Cuckmere River now stands between you and the Seven Sisters. This we were not prepared for! To get around the river you have two options.

Option 1 – Depending on the tides, the river can be shallow enough to wade through to the other side. This was not an option for us at the time, the water would have been waste high. Sooo, option 2 it is.

Option 2 – Follow the Cuckmere River inland to make your way around and back to the coast. While much more timely, the views are picturesque and v English. Walking through pastures of sheep along the river, you’ll reach the Cuckmere Inn halfway. Highly suggest stopping here for a pitcher of Pimm’s and some chips on the picnic tables before carrying on down the other side of the river.

Either way, you’ll eventually make it to the other side. Congrats! The first sister (first cliff peak) now stands before you. You’ll see a few trail options up the cliff. Trails closer to the coast are MUCH more steep and made of crumbling slippery chalk. I would suggest not being a hero and taking the Park Trail, which winds up the cliff at a reasonable incline.

From here, take it all in. Up and down you’ll go from one sister to the next. Views from each, more beautiful than the next. The seventh and final cliff will end at Birling Gap. This is another great spot to stop with a beach, restaurants to refuel, toilets and the like. You can end the hike here. There are buses from the Birling Gap car park back into Seaford and Eastbourne. You can also call a cab from this point. 

We decided to continue on up the next cliff towards the Belle Tout Lighthouse to rest and watch the sunset. This was our best decision of the day. We watched in amazement at the unblocked views of the horizon. The sun dipping into the ocean, turning the stark white cliffs warm hues of orange and pink as tiny humans played in the water below us. Hands down one of the best sunsets I’ve seen in England to date. 

We had every intention of continuing our hike into Eastbourne, but time was not on our side as we quickly ran out of daylight and admittedly were totally knackered from the day’s hike. Ultimately we called Eastbourne Taxi for a lift back to Seaford where we grabbed dinner before making the journey home to London.

The walk in and through Eastbourne looks amazing, so if you have it in you, definitely carry on. We found the blog post here by Lines of Escape to be really helpful! 

Seven Sisters Hike Difficulty & Duration?

Is it a hike? Is it a walk? Honestly, we had trouble deciding when writing this post. As you can see from the pictures, there are a number of steep inclines, which are sure to get the booty burning and have lead us to classify the sisters as a hike. 

We saw people of all ages on the cliffs, so definitely a great option for varying endurance levels. It’s good to mention that this “hike” is long though! For sure a marathon, not a sprint. Highly suggest leaving at least 7 hours for the hike itself. This will give you plenty of time to stop for photographs and a bite to eat while leisurely taking in all the sights!

Seven Sisters Hike Tips & What We Might Have Done Differently

• Pack plenty of snacks and your bottle of water. While there are a number of stops along the way, they are few and far between. Bonus points if you pack wine for the sunset!
• If you make it back to Seaford for dinner, check out Gino’s Restaurant. Does anything hit the spot better than a big bowl of pasta at the end of a long hike? Service is warm and welcoming, plus they are conveniently located next to the train station.
• Got time to spare? Make a weekend out of it. The Belle Tout Lighthouse actually doubles as a bed and breakfast. We’re dying to stay there for the views alone. 

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London is a sprawling city with a little bit of everything. Art lovers and foodies would be spoilt for choice, sightseers could spend days admiring history and architecture, and party goers can bask in the welcoming pub culture.

Below is a hand-picked guide of our favorite things in each London neighborhood. Be warned – there is no way to fit all of this into one trip, so try not to over-do it.

Angel/Islington

A midday walk or run along Regent’s Canal will make you feel like you stumbled on London’s best kept secret. If the weather is decent, you’ll see loads of people perched by the canal, sharing laughs, snacks, and a bottle of wine, joking about moving into one of the canalside riverboats. As the sun sets, we recommend heading over to Angel Comedy Club. These guys do stand-up every night of the week, it’s run by local comics, and it’s completely free. What’s not to like?

Brunchin’: Towpath Cafe, Apera & Co

Munchin’: Afghan Kitchen, Ottolenghi

Boozin’: Rosemary Branch, Earl of Essex (outside patio is ace)

City of London

Somewhat confusing, the City of London (or the Square Mile) is the financial district in the centre of London. Ancient alleyways nestle between modern corporate skyscrapers, which makes for noticeable juxtaposition (word of the day).

This area is best explored during the day, and we highly recommend getting started with an early breakfast at the Sky Pod Bar, in the Walkie Talkie Building. Next, walk 15mins to admire and climb St. Paul’s Cathedral. After 528 steps to the top, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best vantage points of London. If you still have some juice left, walk another 15-20mins for more spectacular views – this time of the famous Tower Bridge and the Tower of London.

Shoreditch/Bethnal Green

Think quirky bars and markets, overpriced flat whites, and buzzing nightlife. Shoreditch epitomizes the “used to be dodgy, but now I’m hipster/edgy/expensive” trend. Nevertheless, you’re bound to have a fun time and meet some interesting people here. Head to Brick Lane Market for vintage clothing shops, food stalls and graffiti backdrops to the sounds of v impressive street performers. On Sunday, check out the Columbia Road Flower Market – even if you aren’t feeling floral, it’s a great place for a coffee/pint and some people watching.

Brunchin’: Rochelle Canteen, Fabrique, Curious Yellow Kafe

Munchin’: A Portuguese Love Affair, Chez Elle’s

Boozin’ (speakeasy edition): The Nightjar, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town

Southbank/Westminster

Royal and elegant, this area oozes class. And tourists… Have a lazy walk along the River Thames and check out the London Eye, Palace of Westminster, and Westminster Abbey. Then, a gorgeous 15min walk through St. James’s Park and you’ll arrive at Buckingham Palace, where you can see the changing of the guards (dates/times here). If it’s a nice day, carry on past Buckingham Palace and you’ll reach Hyde Park, one of the most peaceful and attractive parks in town.

Boozin’: After a long day, rest your feet at the cozy and rustic atmosphere in Gordon’s Wine Bar. If you’re lucky, you can snag a spot in the cave.

Hackney/Haggerston

Artsy and edgy, Hackney has some of the most interesting markets and diverse eateries. Broadway Market might be our favorite market in town. You can find pretty much anything you’re in the mood for, and then walk it over and  London Fields.

Munchin’: At Broadway Market, find the Ghanaian Food Truck (not sure the name, but it is delightful). In Hackney, My Neighbors the Dumplings is tasty dumpling house with a basement Sake Bar and Hanging Garden

Boozin’: CRATE Brewery, Netil360 (great rooftop views of London), The Dolphin

Borough/Bermondsey

Borough Market makes everyone’s list, but we recommend going on a weekday to avoid the crowds. In terms of sights, the market is conveniently just a 5min walk to the Shard, the tallest and most recognizable feature of the London skyline. It is also a 15min walk to the modern/contemporary art exhibitions at the Tate Modern. The top floor boasts a fantastic (and free) viewing deck with views across the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and as far as Canary Wharf and Wembley Stadium.

On the weekend, be sure to hit the Maltby Street Market with an empty stomach. It’s smaller, but the food and vibes are amazing. Plus, it’s walking distance to some of the best local breweries in London. Be sure to grab a scotch egg!

Munchin’ at Borough: Cheesy Potatoes at Kappacasein Dairy, Fresh Mexican at Tacos El Pastor

Boozin’ near Maltby: Partizan Brewing, Anspach & Hobday, Fourpure Brewing Co.

Soho/Fitzrovia

My mind was blown when I found out New York’s SoHo stood for South of Houston, but we’re yet to figure out the background of London’s Soho. Carnaby street literally lights up at night, and the alleys are filled with both designers and indie shops. This area is also proximate to the British Museum and the West End Theatre District. So get curious at one of the world’s largest collections of ancient artifacts, and then hit the town for dinner and a show (if you’re into that kind of thing).

Treat yourself to a night cap at The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House), a swanky speakeasy disguised as an optometrist. Every time, we’ve order the same thing: the “less than perfect” Manhattan and extra dirty martini.

Munchin’: Bone Daddies, Polpo

Boozin’: The Blind Pig (above Social Eating House)

Notting Hill

Quaint townhomes and cafes, cobblestone streets, and the famous Portobello Road Market mean we couldn’t leave Notting Hill off of the list. Its cinematic prevalence has made Notting Hill very touristy, but don’t let that deter you from having a cheeky stroll through this idyllic neighborhood. Between the pastel townhomes and the rose latte at Farm Girl, this place is an instagram haven.

Munchin’: Walmer Castle (great Sunday roast)

Brunchin’: Farm Girl, Egg Break

Sadly, this wraps up our neighborhood guide of things to eat, see, and do in London. It should leave you feeling hungry and curious, but let us know if we missed any of your favorite spots!

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