Most of this walk is within the Hastings Country Park – 700 acres of clifftop, woodland and open grassland, an amazing variety within a small area and with spectacular views in all directions.

The walk begins from the Firehills area, so named because of the brilliant flame-yellow of the gorse which grows abundantly here. It then follows the clifftops to Hastings, traversing three deep 'clefts' which run down to the shore, Warren Glen, Fairlight Glen and Ecclesbourne Glen. (Please note that, because of unstable cliffs and rock falls, there is NO safe access to the shore in the course of this walk. There is ample beach facility however, when you reach Hastings).

Although it is not a long walk, it is fairly hilly and can be muddy after prolonged rain. Most of the steeper slopes have steps cut into them, making them easier to negotiate, but they are nevertheless, steep and uneven in places.

The cliff railway affords a good view of Hastings Old Town as you descend and lots to do when you arrive. Explore winding streets and alleyways, browse the local shops or buy fish, freshly caught, beside the tall wooden net sheds.

Return to your car can be made by public transport (see above), or on foot, mainly via road and track. This is an 'either / or' walk.   The linear walk from Fairlight to Hastings, returning by bus, is 4 miles. Walking the entire circuit is a distance of approximately 7 miles.

England - East Sussex - Coast

View a road map to the starting point of this walk.