The best MTB trails around Hastings

There are over 20 mountain bike trails around Hastings listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

Mountain biking around Hastings offers diverse terrain. You can expect coastal paths with sea views, routes through expansive nature reserves like Hastings Country Park, and ancient woodland glens. Trails traverse reedbeds, open pasture, and dedicated multi-use paths such as the Combe Valley Greenway. Some routes feature soft rock cliffs and varied landscapes, providing a dynamic environment for riding.

Yes, Hastings offers several easy mountain bike trails. The Combe Valley Greenway – Old Train Station loop from St Leonards Warrior Square is an easy 16.2-mile (26.1 km) route through the Combe Valley. Another option is the Combe Valley Greenway – Hastings Net Shops loop from Marline Wood, which is 23.2 km and also rated easy. The Hastings to Bexhill Coastal Path is also known as a fantastic route for beginners and families, offering traffic-free cycling with seaside views.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are more difficult options. The Eastbourne Pier – South Downs Way Crossroads loop from St Leonards Warrior Square is a difficult 77.3 km route with significant elevation gain. Additionally, nearby Friston Forest offers the Jeremy Cole mountain biking trail (Red route), a 9km cross-country trail with natural forest paths, singletrack sections, short descents, and climbs, suitable for more advanced riders.

Many trails offer scenic views and pass by notable landmarks. You can explore the historic surroundings of Rye on routes like the Landgate Arch, Rye – Ypres Tower (Rye Castle) loop from Ore. The Battle Abbey and Battlefield – Battle Abbey and Battlefield loop from St Leonards Warrior Square takes you through historical landscapes. Along the coast, you might pass by Hastings Pier, the East Hill Cliff Railway, and the historic Hastings Net Shops. Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve itself offers dramatic soft rock cliffs and panoramic coastal views.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Hastings are designed as loops. For example, the Combe Valley Greenway – Old Train Station loop from St Leonards Warrior Square and the Old Train Station – Chilley Farm Shop & Café loop from Hastings are both circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

While many outdoor areas in Hastings are dog-friendly, it's always best to check specific trail regulations. Multi-use paths like the Combe Valley Greenway are generally suitable for dogs on a lead. However, some nature reserves or private land may have restrictions, especially concerning wildlife protection. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow local signage.

The best time for mountain biking in Hastings is generally during the drier months, from spring to early autumn (April to October). This avoids the wettest conditions, which can make some trails muddy and challenging, especially those with natural forest paths. The coastal paths offer pleasant riding with sea breezes during warmer weather.

Generally, no specific permits are required for mountain biking on public bridleways and designated cycle paths in Hastings. However, it's important to note that while cycling was previously restricted in Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve, it is now permitted on designated routes. For areas like Friston Forest, official waymarked trails are open to the public, but always respect local signage and regulations, especially concerning unsanctioned trails.

Many trails in Hastings are accessible. Routes often start near towns like St Leonards Warrior Square or Ore, which have train stations. For example, the Combe Valley Greenway – Old Train Station loop from St Leonards Warrior Square begins near a train station. Parking is generally available in and around Hastings, though it's advisable to check specific starting points for dedicated parking facilities. The Combe Valley Greenway is designed to be largely traffic-free and accessible.

Yes, Hastings is a coastal town, and several mountain bike routes offer stunning sea views. The Hastings to Bexhill Coastal Path is a dedicated, traffic-free route that runs along the coast. Additionally, trails within Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve provide panoramic coastal vistas, and on a clear day, you might even see France.