Hastings Cliffs to Pett Beach

Hastings Cliffs to Pett Beach is a protected woodland area stretching along sandstone cliffs with coastal grasslands, ancient woodlands, and a shingle beach. The terrain reveals different geological layers and supports varied wildlife that you can observe while walking the trails.

The area became a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1974 to protect its rare plants and fossil remains. This designation arose because scientists recognized the unique geological and biological diversity found here.

The coastal paths through Fire Hills and Fairlight Cove let visitors experience how the land changes through natural forces. Walking here, you notice how the sea and weather constantly reshape the cliffs and beach, creating a landscape that feels alive and ever-changing.

Visitors can access walking trails from multiple starting points, with Hastings Country Park Center serving as a helpful base. On clear days, the views extend far across the coast, and the trails suit different ability levels.

At low tide on Cliff End beach, ancient tree stumps emerge from the sand that are about 5000 years old and come from a submerged forest. These finds show that the shoreline has shifted dramatically over time and landscapes have been buried beneath the sea.