Coombe Valley Wilderness Run.

Wide meadows, winding wetland trails, and a cool stream to splash in.

Tucked between Hastings and Bexhill, Coombe Valley is a hidden gem; open, unspoilt, and brimming with adventure.

Here, dogs can bound across wide meadow paths, race along grassy banks, and explore winding tracks that weave between wetland edges. The open skies give a sense of freedom, while the marshes and waterways attract a chorus of birds and other wildlife. The central stream is a highlight, perfect for a refreshing paddle mid-walk.

Part of the Combe Valley Countryside Park, this area covers 2.3 square miles (about 1,480 acres) of meadows, wetlands, and coastal edge. It’s a haven for birdlife, expect to spot ducks, geese, herons, egrets, and, in summer, dragonflies darting over the water. Raptors such as kestrels and buzzards can often be seen overhead.

This is a walk for dogs who love space, scents, and splashing; the perfect off-the-lead countryside escape.

Trail map for Coombe Valley Wilderness Run showing starting point, farm byway, meadow launch, main track to Hastings, stream stop, farm byway, reservoir edge ramble, and icons of trees, a barn, and a stream.

Adventure Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour

Distance: ~2.5–3 km

Terrain: Open meadows, grassy banks, wetland paths, and shallow stream crossings.

Dog Joy Factor: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

🏞 Hilltop Start

Begin at the cricket pitch in Crowhurst and follow a gentle trail that opens into wide, breezy fields. From here, there’s a sense of freedom straight away, with plenty of space for energetic dogs to stretch their legs before heading into wilder ground.

A rural landscape with a dirt path leading up a grassy hill, surrounded by green plants and bushes, with trees and houses in the background under a clear blue sky.

🔭 Reservoir Viewpoint

At the crest of the hill, stop to admire panoramic views across the reservoir and surrounding valley. It’s the perfect moment to pause, breathe, and take in the scale of this beautiful open space before the real exploring begins.

Scenic landscape with rolling green hills, a small body of water, and cultivated fields under a clear blue sky.

🚜 Farm Byway

The path dips into a quiet byway past the farm, where the air is full of country scents and the odd distant bleat of sheep. This section is a great warm-up, with easy ground leading towards the more adventurous terrain ahead.

A dirt path winds through a green, leafy landscape with trees and bushes on either side and rolling hills with trees in the background under a clear blue sky.

🌉 Bridge Crossing

A short bridge takes you over the main road and into the heart of Coombe Valley. Here, the landscape instantly changes; fields give way to wilder greenery, and the excitement builds as the path starts to weave through the valley floor.

A peaceful landscape of open fields, small lakes, and scattered trees under a blue sky.

🪵 Valley Trail

Following the main track towards Hastings, the route passes through a mix of open and shaded sections. Dogs will love darting in and out of the foliage, picking up the scents of wildlife that call the valley home.

A rural dirt path winding through grassy fields with trees and a blue sky overhead.

💦 Stream Stop

Midway through the walk, the valley stream offers an irresistible pit stop. Dogs can paddle, splash, or simply lap up fresh water while you take in the peaceful surroundings. On warmer days, it’s the ultimate cooldown spot

A small dog swimming in muddy water near the edge of a pond or river with muddy banks.

🪶 Waterside Path

The trail runs alongside the reservoir, with open views over calm water often dotted with waterfowl. It’s a stretch that invites a slower pace, perfect for watching birds and soaking up the serenity.

A body of water with shoreline plants and grassy hills in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

🌾 Fieldside Finish

The return leg winds past more open fields, giving dogs another chance for an energetic dash before reaching the start point. It’s a satisfying finish to a varied and adventure-packed circuit.

A rural dirt path running through tall grass alongside a plowed field under a blue sky with scattered clouds, bordered by green trees on the right.

What People Are Saying

Happy, healthy dog

"Since joining Ollie’s Adventure Walks, my dog is more relaxed and content at home. He gets the exercise and stimulation he needs, and I can see how much he enjoys exploring different places each week."

Proper, high-quality walks

"This isn’t just a quick stroll round the block – Ollie’s Adventure Walks are the real deal. My dog comes back happy and completely worn out after a proper off-lead run in beautiful countryside."

Safe & reliable

"I feel totally confident leaving my dog with Ollie’s Adventure Walks. They’re reliable, caring, and clearly put the dogs’ safety first. I know my boy is in great hands, whatever the weather."

Ollie’s walks