Saint Leonard's Church Seaford

The flint tower of Saint Leonard's Church dominates Seaford's seafront, and it's impossible to miss once you spot it. This medieval parish church sits right on the cliffs, which means the setting alone - looking out across the Channel - justifies a quick visit while you're exploring the town.

Inside, it's a proper working church with a fair bit of history layered in. The church dates back to around the 12th century, and you can feel that age in the stonework and the heavy wooden beams. It's the sort of place where you'll find yourself spending longer than expected, picking out details - old monuments, the quality of the light through the windows, how the building seems to shoulder against the weather.

Walkers get the most from it, really. If you're doing the clifftop walks between Seaford and Newhaven, the church makes a natural stopping point. On a clear day, the views from the churchyard are excellent. It's free to pop in, and there's no charge to wander around outside. The real draw is the combination - ancient building, spectacular setting, and it breaks up a coastal walk nicely.

If you're staying at Three Ponds Holiday Park just down the road, it's absolutely worth the short drive or walk into Seaford proper. The church won't take hours, but paired with a wander through the town and a meal somewhere, it fills an afternoon well. Go midweek if you want it quieter.