Seven Sisters Coast, Rathfinny Wine Estate & Longman Brewery

If you’re looking for a well-rounded day trip that combines stunning scenery, charming villages, and authentic local flavors, this Brighton-based tour might be your ticket. Offered by CANNONBALL TOURS BRIGHTON, it promises a cozy, informative experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, tastings, and relaxed exploration. While it’s ideal for those who love a bit of nature and a sip of wine, it’s also perfect for travelers who want a taste of Sussex’s quieter, more authentic side without the fuss of large groups.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the scenic views of the Seven Sisters cliffs are truly breathtaking — no photo filter needed. Second, the opportunity to visit Rathfinny Wine Estate and Long Man Brewery gives you a taste of Sussex’s burgeoning wine and craft beer scene, all included in a manageable half-day trip. One thing to keep in mind is that there’s no included lunch, so bringing snacks or planning a pub stop afterward might be wise. Overall, it suits those who appreciate natural beauty, good drinks, and a relaxed pace, especially if you prefer small groups and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Experience the striking scenery of the Seven Sisters cliffs and coastal vistas.
• Authentic Local Stops: Visit Rathfinny Wine Estate and Long Man Brewery for tastings and behind-the-scenes insights.
• Charming Villages: Explore Alfriston, a traditional English village with pubs and cafes.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a luxury Mercedes minibus with WiFi, climate control, and a small group size.
• Flexible Itinerary: Stop at key highlights like Devil’s Dyke, Seaford Head, and Wilmington, with some pass-by moments.
• Price & Value: At around $194, you get a mix of guided experiences, tastings, and scenic views—good value for the moderate length.

An Inside Look at the Tour Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Early Views:
The day kicks off at 9:30 am with pickup from your Brighton accommodation, which is a real plus if you’re staying nearby. The first stop isn’t a formal one but rather a pass-by of Devil’s Dyke, a remarkable 700-foot V-shaped valley that’s the largest in the UK. While you may only get a quick glimpse from the vehicle, the view from the road is enough to appreciate the scale of this geological feature.

Seaford Head Nature Reserve:
Next, you’ll arrive at Seaford Head for about 45 minutes. Here, you can walk around and take in panoramic views of the Seven Sisters cliffs. This spot, managed by the Sussex Wildlife Trust, offers some of the best scenery in the area. Expect a relaxed pause to breathe in the sea air, snap photos, and perhaps enjoy the natural surroundings. The admission here is free, making it an accessible highlight.

Rathfinny Wine Estate:
The real highlight for many on this tour is the visit to Rathfinny Wine Estate. It’s renowned for its vintage Sussex sparkling wines made through traditional methods. You can enjoy a wine tasting session, which is included in the tour, and learn about the process of making these wines from hand-harvested grapes. The estate emphasizes a terroir that’s reflected in every bottle, and our sources say visitors love the chance to sample high-quality, locally produced wines in a scenic setting. The estate allows about 40 minutes here, so take your time to savor the flavors and ask questions about the wine-making process.

Long Man Brewery:
Next is a visit to Long Man Brewery in the village of Litlington. This historic brewery, housed in a flint barn, produces award-winning beers. The visit includes a tasting of their brews, giving you a chance to appreciate local craftsmanship. The guide explains their story and brewing techniques, which adds depth to the experience. Expect about 40 minutes here, perfect for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Pass-by of The Long Man of Wilmington:
On the way to Alfriston, the tour passes by the Long Man of Wilmington, a hill figure carved into the hillside. While you won’t stop here, the sight of this ancient figure adds to the scenic and cultural richness of the trip.

Exploring Alfriston:
Finally, the tour arrives in Alfriston, a quintessential English village. You’ll have about an hour to wander its streets, visit pubs, cafes, and shops, or simply enjoy the charming atmosphere. Many reviews mention the value of this stop, with one traveler noting the “fantastic stop at a quaint Sussex village for a freshly baked pasti and a pint,” capturing the laid-back, authentic vibe.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, WiFi on board, bottled water, and light refreshments. The wine and beer tastings at Rathfinny and Long Man Brewery are included, adding significant value, especially for those who enjoy sampling local beverages. The tour also covers hotel or Airbnb pickup and drop-off within Brighton, which simplifies logistics, and the small group size (maximum 14) ensures a personalized experience.

However, lunch is not included, so if you’re a foodie or want a hearty meal, plan ahead. There are plenty of pub options in Alfriston if you want to extend your adventure into a more substantial meal afterward.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a luxury Mercedes minibus makes the experience comfortable, quiet, and smooth. WiFi availability is a bonus, allowing you to share photos or look up info during the day. The small group size keeps things intimate, which locals and travelers alike prefer for a more relaxed, engaging conversation with the guide.

The Guide and Reviews

Guests consistently praise the guides, with one reviewer calling Colin “super friendly” and another noting the “fun facts and anecdotes” shared during the tour. The personal touch and local knowledge enhance the experience, making the scenic stops more meaningful.

The reviews indicate that the tour is quite flexible and relaxed, suited for travelers who want a natural, unhurried pace. One traveler remarked, “Very casual intimate day,” highlighting the personalized feel. The overall rating of 4.5 stars reflects strong satisfaction, with comments about how the views, the wine, and the guide’s friendliness made the day memorable.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a solid pick for nature lovers who want to see the iconic Sussex coastline from multiple angles, and wine or beer enthusiasts eager to taste local productions. It’s also great for those who enjoy small-group travel with a relaxed vibe, avoiding the crowds that larger tours often attract. If you appreciate scenic drives, authentic villages, and guided insights into local specialties, this experience hits many of the right notes.

On the downside, it’s not ideal for someone looking for a full-day itinerary or a culinary-focused experience with included meals. Also, those expecting a long, in-depth history tour might find the focus more on scenery and tasting.

All in all, for around $194, you’re getting a well-curated half-day that combines spectacular views, cultural stops, and tasty samples—a nice way to enrich your Sussex visit.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation in a Mercedes minibus, with WiFi and small-group comfort.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 6 hours, starting at 9:30 am with pickup from Brighton and concluding with drop-off back at your accommodation.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and pub drinks are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food in Alfriston or bring snacks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refundable.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those comfortable with a relaxed, scenic day. Service animals are permitted.

What hours are the stops?
Each stop varies from 40 to 60 minutes, providing ample time for photos, tasting, and wandering.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, sharing fun facts and local insights to enrich the experience.

This tour offers a delightful mix of scenery, local flavors, and cultural charm—ideal for travelers seeking a taste of Sussex’s scenic and authentic side without the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re a keen photographer, a wine lover, or simply someone who appreciates a peaceful day out, this outing provides a genuine, memorable taste of Sussex.