This is linear walk of around 12.5 miles starting from Hastings, that climbs up to the Fire Hills, before dropping down to sea level across to Rye. There are however some stiff climbs and lots of steps during the first half of this wonderful walk over the border in East Sussex. However the reward for your efforts are the wonderful views throughout, even more so if the weather is kind.
Heading towards the coast, it isn't long before the climbing starts, as we join the England Coast Path, the contours on the map indicating that the serious ascent is about to begin. The scenery is delightful along a stretch of the Saxon Shore Way (SSW) into Hastings Country Park, then up and over the Fire Hills towards Fairlight and Cliff End.
After all that climbing the terrain is now completely different, as it is totally flat, walking alongside the Royal Military Canal, which is our companion for the easy plod to Winchelsea. Our route remains low level across fields from Winchelsea to Rye to reach our journey end at Rye Railway Station.
There will be our usual short picnic lunch stop, then opportunities in Rye for a post walk drink, before catching the train back to Ashford or Hastings if you parked there.
Difficulty: Moderate
Ascent: 1200ft
Starting point - If coming by train, the 0824 from Ashford arrives Hastings at 0912, if arriving by car you will need find somewhere to park. We will meet outside the Railway Station where the walk will commence.
Nearest postcode: TN34 1AD
Walk leader is Geoff Bushell
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