From Birling Gap to Brighton

The final event of the upper-year orientation was a day trip to the surrounding areas. We piled into a coach (I can see these coaches becoming like a second home) and set off. We passed nearby Pevensey Castle, which was originally a Roman fort. Inside the old Roman walls are the ruins of a Norman castle. Hopefully I'll have a chance to go back and explore inside. 

We drove down a long stretch of coast line and the bus driver explained that the cliffs are eroding and losing about a metre each year. He also pointed out all the most popular spots for people to jump or drive off the cliffs into the ocean below. Very informative. We stopped at Birling Gap and, despite the endless drizzle, we had a pretty spectacular view down the side of the cliffs. 

Rocky beach at Birling Gap

We moved on to the small village of Alfriston. Wikipedia tells me that the "village today attracts many tourists, because it represents a perfect example of its kind." I guess that means the village is a perfect example of a village. Anyway, it's a really nice place with a few shops and restaurants and, of course, an enormous church. A few of us stopped for a traditional cream tea, which involves tea and a scone served with jam and cream. Absolutely delicious. 

One of Alfriston's many inns

Kirsten enjoying her cream tea at Badger's tea house

After Alfriston, we had a few hours to check out Brighton. The city is pretty old, but it turned into a hot spot in the 18th century when it was known for being a health resort featuring sea-bathing. Brighton is now renowned as a gay-friendly city with a large LGBT community. Also - and this is probably the most important thing about Brighton - it has a booming business conference industry. But seriously, it seems like a cool city, and definitely very eclectic. After getting myself a cell phone, I did some wandering around. Highlights: the mall, St. James Street, and the Brighton Pier arcade. 

Polish deli on St. James Street

One of Brighton's many eye-catching bars

Gray sky and fish & chips at the Brighton Pier

Later in the semester we have a Cultural Studies trip to Brighton and we might check out the Winter Pride week in March, so I'm sure I'll be seeing a lot more of the city.