Our top 5 dog walks in and around Hastings

Hastings and St Leonards are spoiled for choice when it comes to dog walks. From dramatic cliff-top paths to peaceful woodlands and wide, breezy meadows, there’s something here for every adventurous hound, and their human companions.

If you’re looking for walks that combine exercise with breathtaking scenery, here are five of the best. But beyond the joy of freedom, off-lead woodland adventures can play a big role in boosting a dog’s confidence and overall wellbeing.

Fairlight Coastal Path

1. Fairlight Glen & Coastal Cliffs

Few places beat Fairlight Glen for drama. Starting near Hastings Country Park, this walk takes you along cliff-top trails with sweeping sea views that stretch from Beachy Head to Dungeness on a clear day. Dogs love weaving between gorse and grassland, while the descent into the wooded glens feels like stepping into a rainforest, cool, shady, and alive with birdsong and cascading waterfalls. It’s a varied, energetic adventure with a big wow-factor.

Best for: Dogs who enjoy a mix of woodland trails, open runs and sea air.

2. Alexandra Park, Hastings

Right in the heart of town, Alexandra Park is a Victorian gem with miles of leafy paths, ponds, and open lawns. The lower park is great for a relaxed stroll, while the upper park rewards you with quieter woodland trails all the way up to the Great Roar (or is it Little Roar?!) waterfall. It’s ideal if you want a scenic walk without heading too far out of Hastings.

Best for: Easy access, sociable dogs, and shorter walks with lots of sniffs.

3. St Leonards Seafront & Promenade

Sometimes nothing beats a brisk seafront walk. The long stretch between St Leonards and Hastings Pier offers salty air, sea views, and plenty of space for energetic dogs to stretch their legs. Out of season, dogs can enjoy the beach itself, with opportunities for a splash in the shallows.

Best for: Year-round sea views, flat walks, and dogs who like beach play.

4. Combe Valley Countryside Park

Nestled between Hastings, Bexhill and Crowhurst, Combe Valley is an open landscape of meadows, wetlands, and wide skies. Dogs love racing along grassy tracks, paddling in the streams, and nosing through reed beds alive with birdlife. The views over the reservoir and across open fields create a sense of freedom that feels a world away from town. Keep an eye out for cyclists and horse riders on certain sections.

Best for: Off-lead exploring, variety, and dogs that love water.

5. West Hill & Hastings Old Town Views

For a shorter but equally scenic adventure, head up to West Hill. The climb is worth it for panoramic views over Hastings Old Town rooftops, the fishing beach, and out to sea. The green itself is perfect for a quick runaround, usually plenty of other dogs to play with and a reedy pond half way up the slope to cool off in, while the surrounding paths connect you back into the historic streets below.

Best for: Quick, high-reward walks with plenty of history on the doorstep.