It's Sussex Day today and the Seven Sisters National Park - undoubtedly one of the jewels in Sussex's crown - have unveiled their new £2m visitor centre.
Fully refurbished with what they say is a "bright, airy and interactive space," the visitor centre houses displays and activities relating to the wildlife, geology and history of the area.
The whole area has seen a makeover with new and accessible toilet facilities, including a changing places toilet.
Even the signage has been improved allowing visitors to find their way around much more easily.
Since taking over the park from East Sussex County Council last summer, the National Park Authority has completed the first phase of improvements with the renovation of holiday accommodation and facilities at nearby Foxholes, well underway.
Food and drink is now available from a locally-sourced and sustainable takeaway service at the site.
More facilities will continue to open throughout the year, including the newly refurbished Bike Hire, run by The Cuckmere Cycle Company.
Peter Cousin, Commercial Manager for Seven Sisters Country Park, said:
“After well over two years in the making, we’re so excited to be opening our new facilities.
“Seven Sisters is the perfect introduction to the South Downs National Park and we hope our facilities will inspire people and create a sense of wonderment for just how special this landscape is. This is a globally-important site where nature and people come together and we’re proud to have a visitor centre that does justice to the location.
“Whether it’s a first-time visit, or you’re a regular along this coastline, do come and have a look at the new facilities. We look forward to welcoming everyone!”
Trevor Beattie, Chief Executive of the South Downs National Park Authority, said:
“This is a big milestone for Britain’s youngest National Park and we’re excited for the future.
“We’ve made a long-term commitment to not only providing a world-class experience for visitors, but also being a nature recovery hub for the South East. Thanks to some of our innovative work, we’re already starting to see the first green shoots of nature recovery and it’s fantastic to see.
“This is a treasured site and so much more than just a great view, so we hope our new visitor offer inspires people to learn more about Seven Sisters and, ultimately, care for the site so it can be enjoyed by generations to come.”
About Seven Sisters:
Seven Sisters Country Park comprises 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, meandering river valley and open chalk grassland – often called “Europe’s rainforest in miniature” as a single square metre can include 40 wildflower species and over 20 different butterflies.
Up to a million people visit each year to enjoy its beauty and wildlife and the famous white cliffs have been used as the backdrop for many Hollywood movies, including Harry Potter, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and most recently, Summerland.
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