AbstractShort‐term (1‐30 months) weathering rates were obtained for steep cliffs of Cretaceous Ardingly Sandstone in southern England, using a new photographic method. Mean rates for an exposed and a sheltered outcrop were 0.11 and 0.033 mm a−1respectively. Significant (p<0.1) positive correlations were obtained with illumination and algal biomass and a significant negative correlation (p<0.05) with slope angle. There was no correlation with grain size, porosity, or mean surface temperature. Highest weathering rates were observed on south‐ and west‐facing exposed cliffs. The results are discussed with reference to algal growth, climate, and wind