Walking is a great way to experience the trail. The walk is traffic free with the exception of a small residential road in the village of Beachlands.
The Sussex Coastal Culture Trail Map & Guide is an illustrated map that shows you ways to cycle and walk the trail as well as places of interest. The map is available to buy at all three galleries or you can download a version here. Illustrated by Ben Phillips and produced by Bespoke Cycle Group and Hastings Urban Bikes.
It is recommended that the middle section of the Coastal Culture Trail walk between Cooden Beach and Pevensey Bay is taken at low tide (for the more inspiring views) as the sea path ends. There is however a sea wall and residential road which can be taken.
Directions for walking from Hastings Contemporary to Towner, Eastbourne
- From Hastings Contemporary, follow the promenade west along the coast to St Leonards and on to Bulverhythe Beach.
- Follow the gravel path along Bulverhythe Beach, between the railways line and the sea wall, or walk along the beach. At Gyln Gap, continue on a path over the low grassy cliff.
- Continue on to Bexhill along the promenade. After a stop at the De La Warr Pavilion, walk on to Cooden Beach.
- Next, walk along the seafront road or across the beach. At high tide follow the coastal path along a section of sea wall. At low tide, you can walk along the beach. Pass the inland caravan park (hidden if walking along the beach at low tide) to Norman’s Bay.
- Follow the inland road or the beach (at low tide) past Beachlands, a row of seafront houses on the coast to Pevensey Bay.
- Continue on the coastal path (there are a few stretches of beach which can be avoided by using the beach road) and cross the lock gates to Eastbourne Harbour.
- At the harbour, take a walk along the seafront path on to the promenade towards Eastbourne Pier.
- Towner can be reached by following the promenade signposting.
Walking Beyond the Coastal Culture Trail
If you are looking to extend your walk beyond the trail, Eastbourne is a short distance from the Seven Sisters Country Park. You can walk from Beachy Head down to the Cuckmere River or though Friston Forest. The 14 mile Cuckoo Trail, winding through the Wealden countryside linking Eastbourne, Pevensey, Polegate, Hailsham, Horam and Heathfield along disused railway line can be walked or cycled. In September you can enjoy the Coast and Country Walking Festival with guided tours around the South Downs area.
Alternatively follow in the steps of William the Conqueror on the 1066 Country Walk taking in historical sites on a walk through ancient towns and villages, such as Winchelsea and Rye, over hillsides and through woodland, and passing oast houses and windmills. The route includes the Normans’ landing point at Pevensey and the battle site, and the castles at Pevensey and Herstmonceux.
If you are looking for a guided walk try Fizz on Foot. Learn about the local vineyards in the area and enjoy a tour with passionate locals full of information on the landscape and history of the area.