Hastings on the southeastern coast of England is a bit of a ‘marmite’ place – by that I mean, people either love it or they hate it. It has a bit of a reputation – a bit rough and ready (if you know, you know). And well, my husband’s family lives in Bexhill-on-Sea next door, and so I’ve spent lots of time in Hastings over the years.
And actually, I quite like the place – it’s charming if you know where to go, and I like that it’s not as touristy as nearby Brighton. It feels like an authentic British seaside town, if you know what I mean. Like, it’s a place where people live and work instead of just a tourist haven.
And in this article, I will guide you through the best things to do in Hastings, where to eat in Hastings, and the best hotels here.
So, whether you’re an avid history buff (Hastings is bursting with history – the Battle of 1066 happened here), a lover of the arts (there are heaps of vintage & antique stores here), or simply looking to enjoy the picturesque seaside views, Hastings has something to offer.
1. Step back in time at Hastings Castle
No trip to Hastings would be complete without a visit to the iconic Hastings Castle. Perched atop the West Hill, the ruins of this ancient fortress offer a glimpse into England’s storied past.
The West Hill Lift serves Hastings Castle, and this is the best way to get up here, we think. It is currently closed and due to re-open in the spring of 2026.
Built by William the Conqueror in 1067, the castle provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the town and coast. As you wander through the remnants of this Norman stronghold, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Be sure to catch the audio-visual presentation that narrates the castle’s rich history and the famous Battle of Hastings.
2. Wander around the Old Town
The Old Town of Hastings is a delightful labyrinth of narrow streets, quirky shops, and cozy cafes that exude a sort of old-world charm. Stroll along George Street and High Street, where you’ll find an array of antique shops, unique boutiques, and inviting Cafes.
While for coffee we really like Grey Skull Coffee, which we’re told is a local-fave. And for food here – our favorite restaurant is La Cucina, a small Italian spot that does excellent wood-fired pizzas.
The Old Town is also home to the Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and the Shipwreck Museum, both offering fascinating insights into the town’s maritime heritage. As you explore, keep an eye out for the vibrant street art that adds a modern touch to this historic area.
3. Check out nearby Bodiam Castle
Around 25 minutes from Hastings is Bodiam Castle, which is honestly like the poster child for medieval moated castles.
Built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of Edward III, it was built specifically to keep the French at bay during the Hundred Years’ War. With its picture-perfect setting, round towers, and grand gatehouse, it’s no wonder photographers love it here. Even though the inside got wrecked during the English Civil War, the outside’s still in perfect shape. That’s because these days, the National Trust takes care of it.
Entry to the Castle costs £12 per adult.
4. Go on a hike at Hastings Country Park
For those who love the great outdoors, Hastings Country Park is a must-visit. Spanning over 850 acres of ancient woodland, heathland, and grassland, this nature reserve offers a variety of walking trails with stunning views of the English Channel.
You can get here via the East Hill Cliff Railway, which is the steepest funicular railway in the United Kingdom. Or you can walk up the steep steps instead. I know which one we always prefer.
5. Hastings Contemporary
Art aficionados will find their haven at the Hastings Contemporary Gallery, previously known as the Jerwood Gallery, located on the Stade, right next to the beach.
This contemporary art gallery showcases an impressive collection of modern British art, featuring works by renowned artists such as L.S. Lowry and Sir Stanley Spencer. The gallery’s changing exhibitions mean there’s always something new to admire. There’s also an on-site café, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the sea views.
An adult ticket costs £11.
6. Enjoy the Hastings Pier
The award-winning Hastings Pier is a testament to the town’s resilience and community spirit. After being devastated by fire in 2010, the pier was lovingly restored and reopened in 2016.
Whether you fancy a walk with the sea breeze in your hair (you can walk all the way to Bexhill or Rye, in the other direction if you wish), a spot of fishing, or enjoying live entertainers, the pier has it all. Don’t forget to grab some traditional fish and chips from Maggie’s near the fishing huts and savor the quintessential British seaside experience.
You also must try your hand at the slot machines at the arcade at Pelham Place – we won a couple of big teddies for our daughters here one day.
If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll surely want to try out the crazy golf here – there are 3 different courses to choose from.
7. Hop on board the Miniature Railway
Our daughters loved this!
This historic railway has been in operation since 1948, and it features a narrow-gauge track that winds its way along the seafront. With its quaint locomotives and vintage carriages, the miniature railway is a perfect family-friendly activity here in Hastings!
8. Smugglers Adventure
Next, why not head to Smugglers Adventure, located in St. Clements Caves on the West Hill. These caves were once a hideout for notorious smugglers, and today they offer an interactive journey through the shadowy world of 18th-century smuggling.
As you walk through the dimly lit tunnels, you’ll come across life-size figures, displays, and sound effects that bring the tales of intrigue and danger to life. It’s a fantastic experience for both kids and adults alike.
9. Spend a few hours in Battle
As you can likely guess, this town (next to Hastings) is where the Battle of Hastings took place on Oct 14, 1066.
One of the primary attractions is the Battle Abbey and Battlefield, where you can explore the site of the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings. The abbey, founded by William the Conqueror, provides a fascinating glimpse into medieval history with its interactive exhibits and beautiful grounds. After delving into history, take a leisurely stroll through the town’s quaint streets, lined with independent shops, cafes, and galleries.
10. Relax on the beaches
Be sure to take some time to unwind on Hastings’ beautiful beaches. The town boasts a mix of pebbly and sandy shores, perfect for sunbathing, swimming (the water can be cold, though), or simply enjoying a leisurely walk along the water’s edge.
Pelham Beach is family-friendly, with amenities like beach huts and lifeguards in the summer months, while Rock-a-Nore Beach is quieter.
11. Hastings Aquarium
A good one for kids, here, you can spend an hour or two exploring a variety of themed zones showcasing diverse ecosystems, from the colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish to the mysterious depths inhabited by fascinating creatures like octopuses and seahorses. And interactive elements, such as touch pools and feeding sessions, add to the experience.
12. Fisherman’s Museum
This charming museum offers a glimpse into the rich maritime history of this coastal town. Nestled in the heart of Hastings Old Town, the museum is housed in a former fishermen’s church, which adds to its unique character.
Here, you can explore a fascinating collection of exhibits that include model boats, fishing gear, photographs, and personal stories from the local fishing community. One of the museum’s highlights is the “Enterprise,” a full-sized fishing boat. And what’s great is that admission is free, but donations are welcome.
Where to stay in Hastings:
The Old Rectory on Harold Road or Zanzibar International Hotel in nearby St Leonards-on-Sea are two of our favorite places to stay in Hastings.
Getting to Hastings:
By train, you can take a direct service from London Charing Cross, London Victoria, or Brighton, with journey times ranging from 1.5 to 2 hours.
If you’re driving, Hastings is approximately a 2-hour trip from London via the A21 or around 1 hour from Brighton via the A259. Bus services also operate regularly to Hastings from places like Brighton and London. And if you’re flying in, the nearest major airports are Gatwick and Heathrow, from which you can easily connect to Hastings by train or rental car.
Is it worth visiting Hastings?
Yes, I definitely think Hastings is worth visiting. This Victorian seaside resort is perfect if you’re looking for a cheaper coastal getaway. And a more local experience.
Known for its beaches and the Battle of Hastings, which most of you will remember from history class at school, it is one of the most crucial events in British history. And you can learn about this history at Hastings Castle and in the next-door town of Battle. It’s also home to the quirky Old Town, which is a jumble of antique stores and cute cafes.
It’s especially worth visiting in the summer, as almost every weekend during the summer months, there’s an event going on here, from the Seafood & Wine Festival held in mid-September. And the Jack in the Green event is held at the beginning of May.
Thanks for reading!
With its diverse range of attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone in this charming seaside town. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore the many wonders of Hastings.
Booking Your Trip Soon? These are my go-to booking sites!
Below you will find a list of the sites we always use when booking our trips. By booking via the below links you can support my writing at no additional cost to you. Thanks so much!
1. Flights
I use Skyscanner or Cheapoair to find the best flights. It allows you to compare and book flights on over 500 airlines from across the globe.
2. Hotels
I use Booking.com for all of our hotel stays. And if we’re traveling on a budget, I like to use Hostelworld to book a hostel.
3. Renting a Car
We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. This is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.
4. Tours
I use Viator or Get Your Guide to book any guided tours we plan on doing. I find Viator particularly good for the USA, Canada & New Zealand, and Get Your Guide is great for Europe.
5. Travel Sim Card
An eSIM is a great idea if you’re coming to a place for more than a week. As that way, you won’t need to change your number or remove the physical SIM from your phone. They are so handy and cheap, too. Obviously make sure your phone is compatible with an eSIM first. We always use Saily or Lotso Travel for our eSIM’s.
6. Airport Pick-Ups
Instead of cabs, we book with welcome pickup to get from the airport to our hotel. Why did we do that? The drivers from Welcome Pickups are English speaking and you’ll pay a flat rate. So, you know exactly how much you’re
7. Travel Insurance
At first glance, skipping travel insurance may seem like a great way to save some money. However, if you end up losing your luggage, have your flights cancelled, or get sick – it is a decision you’ll probably regret. Thinking nothing will happen is definitely a mistake, and without travel insurance, it’s one that will end up costing you – big time.
Last Updated on March 19, 2026 by snaphappytravel