One of the world’s most beautiful hiking routes is just 90 minutes from London

The walk has been named one of the world’s most beautiful hiking trails in a new eye-tracking study, offering breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable white chalk cliff scenery

New research has revealed one of the world’s most stunning hikes is right here in Britain, providing unparalleled coastal views as the ultimate reward.

Aninvestigation has identified the most picturesque hiking routes worldwide, as running footwear retailer SportsShoes.com employed technology to track the eye movements of volunteers viewing some of the planet’s most renowned walks.

Their findings enabled them to allocate each location an ‘eye-catching’ rating, establishing which were the most visually mesmerising. Britain’s own Seven Sisters Cliff Walk, situated on the English coastline in East Sussex, secured a place on the list.

It’s hardly surprising to locals or those who’ve tackled the path that it would be regarded as a top 10 trek, as its tranquil beaches and azure waters are framed by the most strikingly white cliff summits.

In fact, the Seven Sisters are so magnificent they’ve featured in some of the most celebrated British cinema productions, including Atonement and Harry Potter. The distinctive cliffs encompass a challenging route which can require anywhere from four to seven hours, and it appears visitors believe it’s worth every moment.

The hike

Most walkers opt to start the demanding hike in Seaford and finish in Eastbourne so they can witness the famous views of the Seven Sisters as they reach the summit. Throughout the 12-mile journey, ramblers can anticipate tackling seven inclines, some of which are more steep than others.

The optimal vantage point along this route for photographing all seven cliffs together is at Hope Gap, though for the finest panoramas from above, you’ll want to continue until reaching the renowned Belle Tout and Beachy Head lighthouses.

Fortunately for walkers, there’s a charming pit stop en route where you can pause and savour a range of refreshments at the Bearling Gap Cafe. Here there’s a handy National Trust centre which also offers toilet facilities so you’re not left without amenities for the whole trek.

Having tackled the walk themselves, one visitor posted on Tripadvisor: “The cliffs are breathtaking from a distance, and the view from the edge, facing the open sea, is unforgettable. Heading down to the pebble beach gives you a completely different, striking perspective.”

Based on the complete findings, claiming first place as the ultimate ramble with the most ‘eye-catching’ vistas is France’s Calanques de Marseille. Situated within the Calanques National Park, tucked between Marseille and Cassis, the path is truly spectacular, featuring white limestone cliffs plunging into turquoise inlets and various trails to select from depending on schedule and capability.