The best traffic-free bike rides around Hastings

There are over 35 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Hastings, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

Yes, Hastings offers several easy, flat, and traffic-free routes perfect for beginners and families. A notable option is the coastal cycle route linking Hastings to Bexhill-on-Sea, which is approximately 5 km long and runs alongside a railway line, providing excellent seaside views. Another great choice is the Galley Hill – Old Train Station loop from Bexhill, which is rated easy and offers a gentle ride.

The terrain varies, offering a mix of coastal paths, country lanes, and dedicated cycle paths. While some routes, like the Hastings to Bexhill path, are flat and paved, others might involve mixed surfaces, especially if venturing into areas like the Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve, which has rugged coastal paths and ancient woodland glens. The wider East Sussex county provides diverse terrains from flat roads to rolling hills.

Many routes offer scenic views and pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the iconic Hastings Pier, explore the historic Hastings Old Town, or see the unique Hastings Net Shops. The Hastings Country Park also offers stunning coastal scenery and dramatic sandstone cliffs, with impressive cliff-top views from North's Seat.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. For a moderate challenge, consider the Landgate Arch, Rye – Winchelsea Beach loop from Three Oaks, which offers a scenic tour. Another moderate option is the Battery Hill Viewpoint – Winchelsea Beach loop from Ore, providing diverse landscapes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Hastings, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially for coastal routes, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather and more visitors. Winter can be beautiful but may bring colder, wetter, and windier conditions, particularly along the exposed coastline.

While specific komoot data on bike hire isn't available, Hastings and nearby towns like Bexhill-on-Sea and Rye are popular cycling destinations. It's advisable to check local tourism websites or search online for 'cycle hire Hastings' or 'bike rental Bexhill-on-Sea' to find current options and availability.

Hastings is well-connected by train, making it possible to access many routes. The Hastings & Bexhill coastal route, for example, is easily accessible from both town centers, which have train stations. For other routes, you may need to combine train travel with a short cycle or bus connection to reach the starting points. Always check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies before you travel.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the variety of routes catering to different abilities, and the ongoing improvements to cycling infrastructure that make exploring the region enjoyable and safe.

For those seeking a longer adventure, the Battle & Bodiam loop from Hastings — High Weald offers a challenging 68 km ride. While not entirely traffic-free, it is designed to minimize traffic exposure, taking you through picturesque countryside and historical sites. The wider East Sussex area also features routes like the challenging 100-mile South Downs Way, though parts of this may not be entirely traffic-free or suitable for all touring bikes.

East Sussex County Council and Hastings Borough Council are actively working on improving cycling conditions. You can find more information about the Hastings Walking & Cycling Strategy, which includes plans for new cycle paths and upgraded crossings, on the East Sussex County Council consultation page.