Nestled on the stunning coastal shores of East Sussex, Hastings is a charming seaside town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and quirky attractions. From the Norman Conquest-era castle built by William the Conqueror to the world’s largest underground skate park, this British seaside gem is home to hidden gems that cater to every traveler’s taste.
🏡 Where to Stay in Hastings
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Old Rectory
- ✨ 5-Star: Hastings House
- 🏨 4-Star: The Old Town Bed and Breakfast
- 🛏️ 3-Star: The White Rock Hotel
- 💸 Cheap: Town House Rooms
- 🏢 Apartment: The Artists Retreat - Hastings
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Number 46
- 🏩 For Couples: 15 Grosvenor
As you wander through Hastings Old Town, you’ll be transported back to the Victorian era, with its narrow streets crammed with antique shops, art galleries, and quirky museums. Don’t miss the chance to ride the UK’s steepest funicular railway, browse the Dragon Bar’s eclectic offerings, or challenge yourself to a round of crazy golf at one of the town’s famous 18-hole miniature golf courses.
Best Things To Do in Hastings
1. 🏰 Hastings Castle
Historic gem: Step back in time at the ruins of Hastings Castle, a Norman fortress with breathtaking views over the town and sea. Built by William the Conqueror, this historic site offers a glimpse into the town’s rich past and the events that shaped British history.
Audiovisual experience: Don’t miss the “1066 Story” exhibition, which brings the castle’s history to life through an engaging audiovisual presentation. It’s a great way to understand the significance of the Norman Conquest and its impact on English history.
Peaceful retreat: Despite its central location, the castle grounds offer a tranquil escape from the bustling town below. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch with a view, or simply sit and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient stronghold.
Time Saver: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photographs. The castle opens at 10 AM, and arriving just as it opens can give you a more peaceful experience.
2. 🏴☠️ Smugglers Adventure
Underground thrills: Explore the fascinating underground world of smugglers at St. Clements Caves. This interactive attraction brings to life the dark and sometimes ghostly tales of smuggling along the Sussex coast over 200 years ago.
Local legends: Learn about infamous local smugglers like Hairy Jack and discover the ingenious methods they used to evade customs officers. The attraction does an excellent job of blending historical fact with local folklore, creating a rich and engaging narrative.
Interactive fun: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the interactive elements scattered throughout the caves, from trying on period costumes to decoding secret messages used by smugglers.
Insider Tip: Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as some parts of the cave can be slippery. Also, bring a light jacket as the caves maintain a cool temperature year-round.
3. 🎨 Hastings Contemporary
Art haven: Formerly known as the Jerwood Gallery, Hastings Contemporary is a beacon for modern and contemporary art. With its striking architecture and ever-changing exhibitions, it’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Diverse exhibitions: Hastings Contemporary hosts a rotating program of exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists. From painting and sculpture to photography and multimedia installations, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
Coastal inspiration: Many of the exhibitions draw inspiration from Hastings’ coastal location, exploring themes of sea, landscape, and maritime heritage. It’s a unique way to experience how the town’s environment influences contemporary artists.
Money Saver: Check the gallery’s website for free admission days, which usually occur once a month. Also, if you’re a frequent visitor, consider becoming a member for unlimited free entry and exclusive events.
Things to do in Hastings with kids
1. 🐠 Blue Reef Aquarium
Underwater adventure: Dive into an underwater adventure at the Blue Reef Aquarium. Kids will love getting up close to marine life from around the world, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.
Interactive displays: The aquarium features numerous interactive displays that allow children to touch and feel certain marine creatures. The rockpool experience is particularly popular, offering hands-on encounters with starfish, crabs, and other coastal creatures.
Educational shows: Throughout the day, the aquarium hosts feeding shows and talks, providing fascinating insights into the lives of various marine species. These sessions are both entertaining and educational, making learning about ocean life fun for kids.
Top Tip: Visit during feeding times to see the animals at their most active. Check the aquarium’s schedule upon arrival to plan your visit around these exciting events.
2. ⛳ Hastings Adventure Golf
Family fun: Challenge the family to a round of mini-golf at Hastings Adventure Golf. With three 18-hole courses to choose from, it’s a fun-filled activity for all ages.
Varied courses: Each course offers a different theme and level of difficulty. The “Pirate Course” is perfect for younger children, while the “Adventure Course” provides a bit more challenge for older kids and adults. The “Crazy Golf Course” is a true test of skill, even for experienced players.
Scenic location: Situated right on the seafront, the courses offer beautiful views of the beach and sea. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while engaging in some friendly family competition.
Money Saver: Look out for family ticket options, which can offer significant savings compared to individual tickets. Also, if you’re staying in Hastings for a few days, consider a multi-day pass for unlimited play.
3. 🌳 Alexandra Park
Victorian splendor: Step into a slice of Victorian elegance at Alexandra Park, a Grade II Listed park just a 10-minute walk from Hastings town center. This 109-acre green oasis, originally laid out by renowned landscape gardener Robert Marnock in 1878, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational facilities.
Family-friendly fun: The park caters to all ages with its diverse amenities. Kids will love the adventure playgrounds and the charming miniature railway, while adults can enjoy the tennis courts, putting green, and formal flower gardens. Don’t miss the boating lake for a quintessential British park experience.
Nature and wildlife: As you explore the park’s 2.5-mile stretch, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife. The park’s ponds and streams are home to various bird species, including kingfishers and grey wagtails. The northern end, known as ‘Old Roar Gill’, is now a Local Nature Reserve and a haven for birdwatchers.
Insider Tip: Visit during the summer months to catch special events like the Hastings Beer Festival, band concerts, and interpretive walks. Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots, or grab a bite at the park’s café for a perfect day out in nature.
Free Things to Do in Hastings
1. 🏛️ Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
Cultural treasure: Explore the town’s rich history and diverse art collection at the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery. With free entry, it’s a great way to learn about local heritage and enjoy cultural exhibits.
Diverse collections: Art lovers will appreciate the gallery’s collection, which includes works by local artists as well as pieces from around the world. The museum also houses an impressive collection of Native American artifacts and a unique display on television pioneer John Logie Baird.
Interactive exhibits: Kids will love the hands-on elements throughout the museum, including the chance to dress up in historical costumes and try out traditional games.
Insider Tip: Check the museum’s website for special events and temporary exhibitions. They often host free talks, workshops, and family-friendly activities that can add extra value to your visit.
2. 🌳 Hastings Country Park
Natural beauty: Take a leisurely stroll through Hastings Country Park, a beautiful nature reserve offering stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife. It’s perfect for picnics and nature walks.
Wildlife spotting: Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s diverse wildlife. You might spot rare birds like the Dartford warbler, or even catch a glimpse of foxes and badgers if you visit at dusk or dawn.
Spectacular views: The park’s clifftop location offers breathtaking panoramas of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. On a clear day, you can even see as far as France!
Top Tip: Bring binoculars if you have them. They’ll enhance your wildlife spotting and allow you to fully appreciate the far-reaching views. Also, wear sturdy shoes as some paths can be uneven.
3. 🏛️ Hastings Fishermen’s Museum
Maritime heritage: Step into the fascinating world of Hastings’ fishing history at the Hastings Fishermen’s Museum. Housed in a former church dedicated to St Nicholas, this free museum offers a captivating glimpse into the town’s centuries-old fishing traditions.
Cultural significance: With over 140,000 visitors annually, it’s the second most visited attraction in East Sussex. The museum’s popularity speaks volumes about its importance in preserving and sharing Hastings’ rich maritime heritage.
Insider Tip: While entry is free, donations are welcome and help maintain this valuable community resource. For a more in-depth experience, time your visit to coincide with one of the volunteer-led walks around The Stade, where you can learn even more about Europe’s largest beach-launched fishing fleet.
Seasonal Activities
🌸 Spring
Blooming beauty: Spring in Hastings brings a burst of color and energy to the seaside town. The famous Jack in the Green Festival kicks off the season with a vibrant celebration of traditional English folklore. Morris dancers, live music, and a leafy Jack parade through the streets, creating a spectacle you won’t forget.
Coastal walks: As the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to explore Hastings Country Park. The clifftop trails offer stunning views of the English Channel, and you might spot rare wildflowers blooming along the paths.
Easter fun: Look out for Easter egg hunts and family-friendly activities at local attractions like Hastings Castle and the Blue Reef Aquarium during the Easter holidays.
Annual events:
- Fat Tuesday (Shrove Tuesday, date varies)
- Jack in the Green Festival (Early May Bank Holiday weekend)
- World Crazy Golf Championships (June)
☀️ Summer
Beach days: Summer is when Hastings truly comes alive. The pebble beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and trying your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.
Outdoor entertainment: Stade Saturdays, a program of free performances, runs from June to October on the Stade Open Space. Enjoy live music, dance, and theater with the sea as your backdrop.
Festival fever: The town buzzes with events throughout the summer. Don’t miss the Midsummer Fish Festival, celebrating the town’s fishing heritage with delicious seafood and live entertainment.
Annual events:
- Midsummer Fish Festival (June)
- Hastings Pirate Day (July)
- Hastings Old Town Carnival Week (August)
🍂 Autumn
Artistic inspiration: The Coastal Currents Arts Festival (September) transforms Hastings into an open-air gallery. Explore exhibitions, installations, and performances scattered throughout the town.
Foodie delights: Autumn brings the Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival, where you can sample the best of local cuisine and wines while enjoying live music on the Stade.
Cozy pubs: As the weather cools, explore the charming pubs in the Old Town. Many offer live music and a warm atmosphere perfect for autumn evenings.
Annual events:
- Seafood & Wine Festival (September)
- Hastings Bonfire Procession and Fireworks (October)
❄️ Winter
Festive cheer: Hastings Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland during December. Enjoy Christmas markets, carol concerts, and twinkling lights adorning the historic streets.
Indoor attractions: Escape the chill in the town’s museums and galleries. The Hastings Museum and Art Gallery offers a cozy retreat with its diverse exhibitions on local history and art.
Annual events:
- Christmas markets and events (December, dates vary)
- New Year’s Day dip (January 1)
Day Trips from Hastings
1. ⚔️ Battle Abbey
Historic site: Visit the site of the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings at Battle Abbey, just a short journey from Hastings. Explore the abbey ruins and learn about this pivotal moment in English history.
Battlefield walk: Take a walk around the battlefield where King Harold II of England fell to William the Conqueror. Audio guides and information panels help bring the events of that fateful day to life.
Abbey ruins: Explore the atmospheric ruins of the abbey, built by William the Conqueror to commemorate his victory. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval monastic life.
Time Saver: If you’re short on time, focus on the battlefield walk and the exhibition. These give you the best overview of the battle and its significance in just a couple of hours.
2. 🏠 Rye
Picturesque charm: Take a trip to the picturesque town of Rye, known for its cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and charming atmosphere. It’s perfect for a day of exploring and shopping.
Rye Castle Museum: Visit the Ypres Tower, part of Rye Castle, for panoramic views over the town and surrounding countryside. The museum inside offers insights into the town’s history and maritime heritage.
Antique shopping: Rye is known for its excellent antique shops. Spend some time browsing for unique treasures and vintage finds.
Top Tip: Consider taking the train from Hastings to Rye. The journey is quick (about 20 minutes) and scenic, and it saves you the hassle of finding parking in Rye’s narrow streets.
❓ FAQ
What are the best family-friendly attractions in Hastings?
Hastings offers numerous family-friendly attractions, including the Blue Reef Aquarium where kids can get close to marine life from starfish to sharks. The Smugglers Adventure in St. Clements Caves provides an exciting journey through smuggling history. For outdoor fun, visit Hastings Adventure Golf, featuring three 18-hole miniature golf courses. The Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve offers beautiful walks and stunning coastal views, perfect for family picnics.
What historical sites should I visit in Hastings?
History buffs shouldn’t miss Hastings Castle, built by William the Conqueror after the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings. The Fishermen’s Museum in the Old Town showcases the town’s maritime heritage. For a deeper dive into local history, visit the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, which features exhibits on television inventor John Logie Baird and the town’s fishing industry. The Shipwreck Museum on Rock-a-Nore Road is also worth a visit for its collection of maritime artifacts.
What are some free things to do in Hastings?
Hastings offers several free attractions. Stroll through the picturesque Old Town with its Tudor houses and net huts. Visit the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery for free entry to diverse exhibits. Enjoy the outdoors at Alexandra Park or Hastings Country Park Nature Reserve. During summer, catch free performances at Stade Saturdays on the seafront. The Fishermen’s Museum and Shipwreck Museum also offer free entry.
What unique experiences can I have in Hastings?
Ride the East Hill Cliff Railway, the UK’s steepest funicular, for panoramic views of the town and sea. Explore the world’s largest underground skate park, Source Park. Visit during the Jack in the Green Festival in May to experience traditional Morris dancing and folk customs. For art enthusiasts, the Hastings Contemporary (formerly Jerwood Gallery) showcases modern and contemporary art in a stunning seafront setting.
