The best walks and hikes around Pett

Yes, Pett is an excellent starting point for circular hikes. For a longer, moderate walk that explores the area's history, consider the Camber Castle – Royal Military Canal Walk loop from Pett. This route takes you across the marshes to the ruins of Camber Castle, built by Henry VIII, before returning along the peaceful canal path.

Yes, the area around Pett is generally very dog-friendly. The wide-open spaces of Pett Level and the paths along the Royal Military Canal are great for walking with dogs. However, be mindful of livestock grazing in fields, especially on paths towards Winchelsea and Rye, and keep your dog on a lead where required. Also, be cautious near the cliff edges in Hastings Country Park.

For walks starting in Pett, there is on-street parking available, particularly near Pett Level beach. For hikes exploring the western cliffs, the car park for Guestling Wood is a popular and convenient option. If you plan to explore Hastings Country Park, there are several car parks within the park itself, such as the one near the main visitor centre.

Yes, the area is accessible by bus. Several bus routes connect Pett and Pett Level with the nearby towns of Rye and Hastings, which both have mainline train stations. This makes it possible to start a linear walk, such as a section of the Saxon Shore Way, and return by bus.

The paths along the Royal Military Canal are perfect for families and beginners. They are almost completely flat, well-maintained, and offer a safe environment away from traffic. You can enjoy a short out-and-back walk or a gentle loop, with plenty of nature to see along the way.

The cliff-top paths, primarily through Hastings Country Park towards Fairlight, offer dramatic scenery but are more challenging. These routes involve significant changes in elevation with steep climbs and descents through wooded glens. The reward is stunning views across the English Channel. A demanding but scenic option is the All Saints' Church, Hastings – Hastings Old Town loop from Pett, which showcases the rugged coastline.

While there are no pubs directly on the more remote coastal or canal paths, you can easily plan a route to include one. The villages of Pett, Fairlight, and the nearby town of Winchelsea have pubs that are a short detour from the main trails, offering a good spot for lunch or a drink.

The terrain is incredibly varied. You can experience the flat, easy-going towpath of the Royal Military Canal and the expansive pebble beach at Pett Level. In contrast, the coastal path through Hastings Country Park features rugged, undulating terrain with steep ascents and descents on dirt paths through woodland and heathland.

The trails around Pett are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic contrast between the flat, serene marshlands of Pett Level and the rugged, challenging cliffs of the Hastings Country Park. The unique geological features, like the sunken forest visible at low tide, are also a major highlight.

Absolutely. At low tide on Pett Level beach, you can see the prehistoric sunken forest and even fossilised dinosaur footprints. The Royal Military Canal is a Napoleonic-era defence, and the entire coastline is part of the long-distance Saxon Shore Way, following the path of ancient Roman fortifications.

You can explore over 15 different hiking routes around Pett on komoot. These range from easy, flat walks of just a few kilometres to difficult, full-day hikes with significant elevation gain, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness level.