Fairlight Glen and Covehurst Wood
A secluded shingle beach and woodland valley, known for its challenging rope-assisted access and peaceful naturist environment.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer beach access
Fairlight Glen and Covehurst Wood
Best Time
Safer beach access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded shingle beach and woodland valley, known for its challenging rope-assisted access and peaceful naturist environment.
"A very peaceful and relaxing place, perfect to get away and disconnect."
Rope descent is key! :climbing:
Be ready for a steep climb down using a rope. Steps are often gone due to erosion.
Check tide times! :watch:
Don't get cut off by the tide. Plan your visit carefully.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fairlight Glen Beach
Fairlight Glen
A secluded shingle beach accessible via a steep, rope-assisted descent. Popular for naturists and those seeking peace.
Covehurst Wood
Adjacent to Fairlight Glen beach
A picturesque woodland with a clear stream, offering walking trails for a tranquil escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Fairlight Glen Beach
Navigating the Woods and Beach
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rope descent is key! :climbing:
Be ready for a steep climb down using a rope. Steps are often gone due to erosion.
Check tide times! :watch:
Don't get cut off by the tide. Plan your visit carefully.
Footwear matters :athletic_shoe:
Wear sturdy shoes for the slippery shingle and woodland paths.
Embrace the peace :zzz:
No mobile signal here! Perfect for disconnecting and relaxing.
Route to Fairlight Glen beach (near Hastings)
Tips
from all over the internet
Rope descent is key! :climbing:
Be ready for a steep climb down using a rope. Steps are often gone due to erosion.
Check tide times! :watch:
Don't get cut off by the tide. Plan your visit carefully.
Footwear matters :athletic_shoe:
Wear sturdy shoes for the slippery shingle and woodland paths.
Embrace the peace :zzz:
No mobile signal here! Perfect for disconnecting and relaxing.
Naturist friendly :sun:
Popular spot for naturists, but also welcoming to clothed visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fairlight Glen offers a unique and peaceful natural escape, particularly loved by naturists for its secluded beach and tranquil woodland. While the challenging, rope-assisted access to the beach is a significant hurdle for some, those who make the effort are rewarded with a serene environment and a break from digital connectivity. Be mindful of tidal times for safety.
"I enjoyed a recent visit here. To access the beach you will (because of coastal erosion)have to lower yourself down with the aid of a rope provided. Sadly the steps on to the beach have gone, so again you will have to use the rope provided. To access the sea you'll have to negotiate many boulders. Be very careful as it can be slippery. There are some nice woods next to the beach to explore, which some people do ,clothed or nude. Please be aware of tidal times as people have gotten cut off, while exploring the beach .A very peaceful and relaxing place"
Daniel Brown
"This is one of the best naturists beaches in London. The nearest Railway station is Hastings. You need to take a bus from there to Fairlight Glen. The way to the beach isn’t straightforward though. It’s a narrow path through the greenery."
Rakesh Sharma
"I love it here so beautiful and peaceful and no mobile phone Signal best place get away and relax and be naked"
Federico barbarossa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Take a train to Hastings station, then catch a bus to Fairlight Glen. From there, follow signs for the glen and beach.
Parking is available at Fairlie train station, which is a starting point for some walks.
Yes, trains to Hastings and then a bus service can get you close to the area.
You can walk along the coast from Hastings towards Fairlight Glen, which is part of the England Coastal Path. +1
Follow signs for Fairlight Glen. The path to the beach is steep and may have limited signage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Fairlight Glen and its beach are free to access.
There are no official opening or closing times, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety.
Covehurst Wood is also free to enter and explore.
The beach access can be affected by coastal erosion and tidal conditions, so it's not always guaranteed.
Guided tours are not commonly offered, but local walking groups may organize events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach is shingle and can be slippery. Access involves a steep descent with a rope.
The steep and potentially slippery access to the beach makes it challenging for young children and not pram/wheelchair friendly.
Swimming is possible, but be cautious of the boulders and slippery conditions when entering the sea.
There are no facilities directly at the beach or in the glen. You'll need to use amenities in Fairlight or Hastings.
Yes, it is known as a naturist beach, but clothed visitors are also welcome.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastline, the rope descent, the clear stream in Covehurst Wood, and the secluded beach offer great photographic opportunities.
The shingle and slippery conditions can make it tricky, but the natural beauty is worth the effort.
Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the dramatic scenery and create a peaceful atmosphere.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and respect privacy, especially in a naturist area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views, and a sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families seeking a more accessible coastal experience, alternative beaches along the coast might be a better choice. However, if you have older, adventurous children who are comfortable with a bit of a scramble, the unique environment of Fairlight Glen could be an exciting, albeit challenging, outing.
🌿 Naturists and Peace Seekers
The adjacent Covehurst Wood also provides a natural setting for clothed or unclothed exploration, making it a versatile destination. The challenging access deters casual crowds, contributing to the serene atmosphere. It's an ideal location for individuals or couples seeking a quiet escape and a connection with nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenging Descent to Fairlight Glen Beach
Traveler Tip: Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy shoes with good grip for this descent. The shingle can be loose, and the rope can be slippery, especially after rain. Always assess the conditions before you commit to going down.
Safety First: Tidal Awareness
One of the most critical pieces of advice for Fairlight Glen is to be aware of tidal times. The beach can become cut off by the sea, especially during higher tides. Getting stranded is a real risk, so checking the tide forecast before your visit is paramount. Plan your time on the beach to ensure you have ample time to ascend back up the glen before the tide turns.
Exploring Covehurst Wood
The footpaths through the wood are generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant escape from the open beach. It's a great place to find shade on a sunny day or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. The combination of the woodland and the nearby coast makes for a diverse and engaging visit.
A Haven for Peace and Quiet
Many visitors highlight the lack of mobile phone signal in this area as a significant positive. It contributes to the overall sense of peace and allows for a true digital detox. This makes Fairlight Glen and Covehurst Wood an ideal spot for those looking to truly disconnect and relax in a natural setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit