The best walks and hikes around Hastings
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Hikes around Hastings explore a coastal town in East Sussex where the hills of the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty meet the English Channel. The landscape is characterized by sandstone cliffs, ancient woodlands, and coastal paths with sea views. Many routes are located within Hastings Country Park, a nature reserve that contains a mix of heathland, grassland, and steep wooded valleys known as gills.
Best hiking trails around Hastings
- The most popular hiking route is Hastings Country Park loop from the Old Town — High Weald, a 6.8 mile (11.0 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 15 minutes to complete. The route features ascents through the High Weald landscape with views over the Old Town.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Hastings Country Park – Alexandra Park Pond loop from St Leonards Warrior Square, a difficult 12.5 mile (20.1 km) path. This longer hike combines the coastal scenery of the country park with the wooded sections of Alexandra Park.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hastings Beach – Hastings Pier loop from West Marina, a 4.7 mile (7.6 km) trail leading along the seafront, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Hastings is defined by coastal paths, sandstone cliffs, and ancient gill woodlands. The network of trails offers options for different ability levels, from level seafront walks to more challenging routes with significant elevation changes.
- The routes in Hastings are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 280 reviews. More than 2,700 hikers have used komoot to explore Hastings's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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11.0km
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Embark on a moderate hiking adventure along the Hastings Country Park and Saxon Shore Way Loop, a route that spans 6.8 miles (11.0 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 1005 feet (306 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 3 hours and 13 minutes. As you traverse the trail, you will experience a dynamic landscape, moving from dramatic sandstone cliffs that offer expansive sea views to ancient, wooded glens. The path itself features undulating terrain, including steep sections and steps, particularly as you descend into and climb out of areas like Ecclesbourne Glen, providing a varied and engaging physical challenge.
Before you head out, be aware that the terrain within Hastings Country Park can be quite demanding in certain parts, with significant climbs and descents, so a good level of fitness is recommended. General parking is available near the starting point of the loop, making it convenient if you are driving. If you prefer public transport, options exist to connect you to Hastings Old Town, which is close to the trailhead. Always be prepared for changing coastal weather conditions, even though specific warnings about snow or road closures are not typically issued for this area.
This trail stands out for its unique blend of coastal scenery and rich natural habitats. The glens along the route are teeming with wildlife and burst with wildflowers during the spring, creating a distinctive 'jungle-style' woodland atmosphere. You will also be treated to memorable vistas, including a spectacular view of Hastings Old Town and its seafront from East Hill. The diverse ecosystems and geological features make this loop a notable exploration of the region's natural beauty and coastal heritage.
4.4
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214
hikers
11.1km
02:54
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(13)
67
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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hikers
5.20km
01:19
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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45
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Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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51
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24.5km
07:13
680m
680m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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83
hikers
13.0km
03:25
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
38
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
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50
hikers
6.05km
01:46
170m
170m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
72
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A winkle, mounted on an assembly of fishing equipment, rope, seaweed, pebbles, fish and other marine creatures, all standing on a shallow circular base. 2012.
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Surely everyone knows it and how decent the seafront can be for running and long walks… just wanted to share this highlight with you anyway.
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There is just a simply fabulous experience going on this trail near the reservoir— the road appears infinitely long across the forest. Just a lovely place to be and very quiet as well.
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Convenient bench located on the Saxon Shore Way with great coastal views.
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Always great to have the breeze on your nose and enjoy the view 🥰 I love England
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The East Hill Cliff Railway, or East Hill Lift, is a funicular railway in the town of Hastings in the UK. After similar systems in Broadstairs and Margate were closed, it is the steepest British railway with a gradient of up to 78%. Source: Wikipedia
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More Information
Historic splendour in the town centre
The town is most famous for the Battle of Hastings, which was fought on 14th October 1066 and marked the beginning of the Norman Conquest of England. The battle actually took place 7 miles (11 km) northwest of the town, though after his victory William the Conqueror chose Hastings as the site for his first castle.
Walks around Hastings’ quaint town centre usually involve a short hike up towards the ruins of the castle, which is open to the public during the warmer months, however you’ll need to buy a ticket to get up close. From here, it’s just a short walk to Alexandra Park, a long, linear Victorian park adorned by formal gardens, ponds, lakes and a nationally significant arboretum.
Where the High Weald meets the sea
Some of the best hiking routes around Hastings are found to the east, where the sandstone of the High Weald meets the sea, creating impressive cliffs. These cliffs have proved to be a treasure trove of fossils, with many dinosaur, pterosaur and plesiosaur remains discovered here.
The Hastings Country Park Local Nature Reserve is Hastings’ largest greenspace and gives access to the panoramic clifftop paths. Within its 853 acres (345 ha) is a lovely blend of ancient gill woodland, lowland meadow, sustainable farmland and clifftop grassland. There’s a wealth of flora and fauna to discover here, with rare liverworts, mosses and lichens in the gills and cliff-dwelling peregrines and fulmars to look out for in the skies above the sea.
Natural beauty in the surrounding countryside
More nature-rich hikes around Hastings can be found to the west of the town. There are two more seaside towns to get acquainted with in St Leonards and Bexhill-on-Sea, while there are plenty of natural sights to discover in the intervening Combe Valley. Home to two Sites of Special Scientific Interest and a remarkable array of wildlife, Combe Valley Country Park’s network of paths allow you to explore wetlands, coast and tree-lined former railways.
To the north of St Leonards is Church Wood & Robsack Wood Local Nature Reserve. This region of ancient woodland is spellbinding in spring, when purple orchids, wood spurge and goldilocks buttercup create a colourful cornucopia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there many circular walks available around Hastings?
Yes, Hastings offers numerous circular walks, especially within Hastings Country Park. These loops save you from having to retrace your steps. A great example is the Coastguard Lookout Tower – Hastings Country Park loop from Clive Vale, which provides a varied experience through the park's heathland and woodland.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Most trails in and around Hastings are dog-friendly, but it's best to keep your dog on a lead, especially in Hastings Country Park. This is because the park uses conservation grazing with cattle and ponies to manage the landscape. Also, be mindful of the steep, unfenced cliff edges.
What are some good family-friendly or easy walks in the area?
For an easy and accessible walk, the Hastings Beach – Hastings Pier loop from West Marina is a fantastic choice. It's a relatively flat 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route along the seafront. For a different experience, the paths within Alexandra Park offer a gentle stroll among its impressive collection of trees.
How can I get to the hiking trails using public transport?
Hastings is well-served by trains and buses. The main railway station provides easy access to the town centre and seafront walks. To reach Hastings Country Park, you can take the East Hill Lift, the UK's steepest funicular railway, which takes you from the Old Town directly to the park's entrance, offering great views on the way up.
What are the parking options for hiking in Hastings?
There are several car parks in Hastings, particularly along the seafront, which are convenient for coastal walks. For trails in Hastings Country Park, there are dedicated pay-and-display car parks, such as the one located near the visitor centre at the top of the East Hill.
What is the terrain like on the Hastings to Rye coastal walk?
The section of the Saxon Shore Way from Hastings to Rye is a challenging but rewarding hike. The initial part through Hastings Country Park involves a series of steep climbs and descents through wooded glens and along clifftops. After the park, the terrain becomes flatter as it crosses the Pett Levels towards Rye.
Are there any challenging, long-distance hikes available?
Yes, for experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Hastings Country Park – Alexandra Park Pond loop from St Leonards Warrior Square is a difficult 12.5-mile (20.1 km) route. It combines the steep climbs of the country park with the extensive grounds of Alexandra Park, involving significant elevation gain.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the trails?
The scenery is incredibly diverse. You'll find dramatic sandstone cliffs with panoramic views across the English Channel, especially from Firehills. The trails also lead through ancient gill woodlands, like Fairlight Glen, which are steep, sheltered valleys with a unique microclimate. The landscape is a mix of open heathland, grassland, and wooded areas.
Are there any pubs or cafes along the walking routes?
While there are no pubs directly on the wilder trails within the country park, many routes start or finish in the Old Town or near the seafront, where you'll find a wide selection of traditional pubs, cafes, and restaurants. The The Royal Victoria Hotel – Goat Ledge Café loop from West St Leonards is a pleasant walk that passes several popular seafront eateries.
What do other hikers say about the trails around Hastings?
The hiking routes around Hastings are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal views, the variety of the landscape from clifftops to ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained paths through Hastings Country Park.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from around Hastings?
There is a wide selection of trails, with over 130 routes mapped on komoot around Hastings. These range from 74 easy walks suitable for all abilities to over 50 moderate hikes and more than 10 difficult trails for those seeking a challenge.
Are there any safety considerations for hiking in this area?
Yes, the sandstone cliffs in Hastings Country Park are unstable and prone to rockfalls, so it's important to stay on the marked paths and away from the cliff edges. Some of the paths, especially in the gill woodlands, can be steep and slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is essential.
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