Hastings Circular coastal Walk
Historic old town alleys, funicular heights, and coastal glens
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles) | Estimated Duration: 4 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Starting Point: Hastings Station | Finishing Point: Hastings Station
📥 Download Free GPX Trail File (Garmin, Apple Watch, Strava, OS Maps)
Route Overview
This coastal circular walk starts in Hastings. After passing through the historic Old Town with its traditional net shops, you climb the East Hill (using the historic funicular railway if preferred) into Hastings Country Park. Here, the trail follows high sandstone cliffs, descending into lush green glens like Ecclesbourne Glen, before returning along the seafront.
Travel & Getting There from London Victoria
By Train: Take the direct Southern train from London Victoria to Hastings, or fast Southeastern from Charing Cross. (Station: Hastings Station (Southeastern / Southern), duration: 1h 30m (Southern from London Victoria or Southeastern from Charing X)).
By Bus: Take direct National Express 023 coach from Victoria Coach Station directly to Hastings seafront. (3h 00m - 3h 30m from London Victoria)
By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Rock-a-Nore Car Park, Hastings Old Town (TN34 3DW). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 55m - 2h 30m from London Victoria (68.2 miles via A21 South East directly into Hastings). From London Victoria, head southeast via A20 onto A21, follow A21 dual carriageway past Tonbridge and Robertsbridge directly to Hastings Old Town seafront.
Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs
Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Hastings Circular coastal Walk trail:
- ☕ The Stag Inn: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
- ☕ Judges Bakery: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I travel to Hastings Circular coastal Walk from London?
Take the direct Southern train from London Victoria to Hastings, or fast Southeastern from Charing Cross. (Station: Hastings Station (Southeastern / Southern), duration: 1h 30m (Southern from London Victoria or Southeastern from Charing X)).
Where is the closest car park for Hastings Circular coastal Walk?
Nearest car park is Rock-a-Nore Car Park, Hastings Old Town (TN34 3DW). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 55m - 2h 30m from London Victoria (68.2 miles via A21 South East directly into Hastings). From London Victoria, head southeast via A20 onto A21, follow A21 dual carriageway past Tonbridge and Robertsbridge directly to Hastings Old Town seafront.
How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?
Hastings Circular coastal Walk covers 14 km (8.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 4 hours, graded as Moderate. Starts at Hastings Station and finishes at Hastings Station.
More Recommended UK Walks
Hampstead Heath – The Hampstead Circular Hike • Richmond Park & Thames Path • Regent's Canal Towpath • Epping Forest Oak Trail