Fairlight Coastal Cliffs and Woods

Coastal breezes, rolling hills, and wooded escapades near the sea.

Starting from the heart of Fairlight, this stunning circular walk blends dramatic cliff-top panoramas with lush woodland trails.

The route takes you from sweeping open pastures down into the wild beauty of Fairlight Glen, where steep-sided woods hide trickling streams and the scent of damp earth hangs in the air. There’s a glorious mix of terrain: uphill trots, downhill gallops, shady forest strolls, and cliff-top paths where sea breezes ruffle fur and hair alike.

Expect rabbit trails, the flash of a pheasant’s tail, and plenty of fresh coastal air. Dogs will have endless opportunities to explore, sniff, and splash, while you enjoy some of the best coastal views in East Sussex.

Adventure Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour

Distance: ~2.5–3 km

Terrain: Open pastures, hill climbs, woodland trails, optional beach path

Dog Joy Factor: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Map of Coombe Valley Wilderness Run with starting point, trees, meadow launch, farm byway, main track to Hastings, stream stop, and farm further along the trail.

Cliff-Top Departure

From Fairlight’s Bale House, set out towards the cliff walk. The path soon opens to wide coastal views, with rolling farmland meeting the sparkling blue horizon. On clear days you can see across to Beachy Head in one direction and Dungeness in the other.

A scenic view of green hills and fields overlooking the ocean with a cloudy sky above.

Descent to the Valley

Follow the upper cliff path before taking the far track down into the valley. The trail dips towards the sound of the sea, framed by wind-sculpted gorse and open sky. It’s a gentle downhill stretch that builds anticipation for the wilder terrain ahead.

A narrow dirt path winding through lush green bushes and trees with an ocean view in the background.

Woodland Rim & Rainforest Feel

At the valley floor, a set of wooden steps leads you up into the rim of Fairlight Glen. Here, a unique micro-climate creates a lush, almost rainforest-like environment: ferns, mossy rocks, and dense green canopy keep the air cool and fresh, even on the hottest days.

A forest trail with wooden steps descending through dense green foliage and trees.

Deep Glen Adventure & Clifftop Climb

Winding along the top edge of the glen, the path gives glimpses of the dramatic drop below. The route then swings down into the valley once more before starting a steady climb through shaded woodland. The gradual ascent opens out onto the cliff-top path again, where the sea stretches endlessly before you.

A dirt trail with a wooden bench and a marker post under a large tree, surrounded by green shrubbery and foliage.

Fields with a View

Leaving the pond, the trail runs across open farmland with sweeping sea views to the right. This is a great stretch for off-lead running, with long sightlines and salty air.

Scenic landscape of green fields and grassy edges with a distant view of cliffs, trees, and a cloudy sky over the ocean.

Hidden Stream Path

Dropping gently into the upper reaches of Fairlight Wood, follow a narrow, winding trail that runs alongside a seasonal stream. In winter, the water sings over stones; in summer, it’s a shaded corridor alive with birdsong.

A narrow, rocky trail through a lush green forest with tall trees, ferns, and dense foliage.

Pond Pit Stop

Near the top, a quiet pond offers the perfect dog-friendly rest spot; ideal for cooling paws or a quick drink. In spring and summer, dragonflies skim the surface while swallows dart above.

A grassy field with patches of water, bushes, and a cloudy sky.

Log Path & Quarry Finale

A long, straight log-lined track takes you through open field edges back towards the village. The final flourish is the old sand quarry. Its weathered rock faces make a striking end to the walk before emerging at the Bale House once more.

A dirt trail winding through green bushes and grass, leading to a large rocky hill with shrubs and trees, under a partly cloudy blue sky.

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

  • A tree growing on a rocky hillside with exposed roots and a dirt trail in a dense forest with green foliage.

    Fairlight Coastal Cliffs and Woods.

    Coastal breezes, rolling hills, and wooded escapades near the sea.

    Walk the trail
  • Rolling green hills with scattered cows grazing, large trees, and a cloudy sky, typical of a rural countryside landscape.

    Coombe Valley Wilderness Run.

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

    Walk the trail
  • A dog running outdoors on a cloudy day, with its tongue hanging out and mouth open.

    Battle Woods Explorer Trail.

    History, trees, and nose-to-the-ground scent trails in 1066 country.

    Walk the trail
  • Small brown dog wearing a harness standing on dirt near a riverbank with overhanging tree branches and calm water in the background.

    Brede High Wood Adventure Loop.

    A vast, varied woodland with hidden water views and endless trails to explore.

    Walk the trail
  • A dirt path winding through a dense forest with tall trees and abundant green foliage.

    Footland Wood Adventure.

    Wide open choices, shady woodland trails, and open-field freedom runs.

    Walk the trail