Hastings

Hastings in East Sussex Town Guide

About Hastings in East Sussex

Hastings is on the South Coast and grew from a small settlement between the East and West Hills. Hastings was attacked by the French during the Hundred Years War, and in 1377, a second attack all but destroyed the town.

The Old Town’s architecture ranges from Medieval to Victorian. One of the oldest buildings, the Court House is believed to have been built around 1450. There are ancient churches and the Old Town Hall, which now houses a museum. There are lots of passages and narrow streets (called twittens) that are worth exploring that go off the Old Town High Street. There are cafes, bars and restaurants that add to the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Old Town.

Hastings has the largest fishing fleet in Europe that is launched from a beach, which is known as the Stade. The Castle built by William the Conqueror but now in ruins is at the top of West Hill and offer wonderful views of the area and Channel. The steepest funicular railway in Britain takes passengers from the Old Town up to the Castle.

Hastings Museum and Art Gallery has amongst its highlights exhibitions dedicated to American Indians and Grey Owl, an early conservationist, who came from Hastings and John Logie Baird who pioneered television in Hastings. There is also a reproduction of an Indian Durbar Hall, which was created for an Indian and Colonial Exhibition in Kensington in 1886.

There are many other attractions in Hastings, both architectural and cultural, which include a theatre, parks and gardens. The town hosts several events throughout the year, which include the Hastings Half Marathon, the Jack in the Green Festival, Hastings Beer Festival, Coastal Currents and the Old Town Carnival.

There have been many famous and illustrious residents and visitors to the town, which include J M F Turner, Beatrix Potter and Charles Dickens. The Old Town and beach are important locations in the popular television series ‘Foyle’s War’ starring Michael Kitchen and Honeysuckle Weeks.

What’s new?

Lester Magoogan

Lester’s World of fabulous black and white art depicting his view of the world around him. By the way, Lester … more

Listed in: Individual Artists

What’s 🔥?

The Weeping Willows
The Weeping Willows

8pm
The Jenny Lind, Hastings

Next event

The Albion Skiffle Company
The Albion Skiffle Company

8:30pm
The Albion, Hastings

Message Board

Carpet

Very large cream / beige carpet, approximately 5m x 5m. In good condition – came from a bedroom so it … more

Oval Questions – Boogie by the Sea

Struggling to find any useful FAQ’s for the event. What time do doors open for VIP’s? Are fold up chairs … more

Attractions and Activities

Hastings Museum & Art Gallery

Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is a captivating cultural institution nestled in the heart of Hastings, East Sussex, England. This museum and gallery showcase a diverse collection of exhibits that span a wide range of topics, offering visitors a fascinating … more

Shipwreck Museum

‎Maritime museum with 3000 years of historic treasures from local shipwrecks. Audiovisual show ‘A Shipwreck Adventure’, push button videos, talks with slides on shipwreck and coastal history topics.

Hastings Miniature Railway

Hastings Miniature Railway is a charming attraction in Hastings, East Sussex, England, offering a delightful experience for tourists of all ages. Opened in 1948 it is now the oldest 10.25” gauge railway in the uk. The railway features miniature steam … more

Accommodation

Astral Lodge

Astral Lodge is a Victorian bed and breakfast established in the 1860s, situated directly on the seafront. This historic property spans four floors and does not have a lift, making it less suitable for those who may have difficulty with … more

The Old Rectory

The Old Rectory is a luxury boutique bed and breakfast located in the charming area of Hastings Old Town. This venue offers a unique blend of historical elegance and modern comfort, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a … more

Senlac Guesthouse

Senlac Guest House is located in the centre of Hastings, 5 minutes’ walk from the rail station. Hastings Old Town and the famous 1066 battlefield are a 10-minute drive away. Rooms at the Senlac are stylishly decorated with modern wallpaper … more

Restaurants

Seed

Seed is a tapas bar in Hastings’ historic Old Town. Known for its fusion of traditional Spanish and contemporary flavours, Seed offers a variety of tapas dishes that cater to both meat-eaters and vegetarians. The establishment provides a cosy atmosphere, … more

Coast Restaurant

Coast Restaurant welcomes reservations for lunch and dinner from the general public. The restaurant is staffed by hospitality and culinary art students, therefore our trade is limited to school term-time during following service sessions; Lunch: Monday – Friday, 12.30-3.30pm Dinner: … more

Shear Barn Holiday Park

Shear Barn Holiday Park is situated in Hastings, 2.3 km from Hastings Beach, 30 km from Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, as well as 30 km from Eastbourne Pier. The property is around 47 km from Glyndebourne Opera House, … more

Towns and villages near Hastings …

Explore Hastings ...