Things To Do
in Hastings
Hastings is a historic seaside town on the Sussex coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs and the 1066 Battle site nearby. It blends a vibrant Old Town with a lively seafront, quirky independent shops, and a thriving arts scene. The Stade and the fishing harbor meet a pebble beach, while dramatic views from West Hill overlook the town and the sea.
A continually evolving coastal destination, Hastings balances heritage with contemporary cuisines and coastal activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through Hastings Old Town, where cobbled streets are lined with charming antique shops and cozy cafes. Enjoy a traditional English breakfast at a local bistro, savoring the flavors of locally sourced ingredients. As you wander, take in the fascinating history displayed on the various plaques detailing the town's storied past.
After lunch, visit the iconic Hastings Castle perched on the cliffs, offering stunning views of the coastline and insight into the town's history. Explore the nearby Smugglers Adventure, an underground journey through the history of smuggling in the area. Finish your afternoon at the Jerwood Gallery, where contemporary art is showcased against the backdrop of the sea.
As the sun sets, head to the bustling Fishing Quarter to enjoy freshly caught seafood at one of the quaint restaurants. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves. Finally, grab a drink at a local pub, where you can mingle with the friendly locals while enjoying some live music.
Kick off your day with a refreshing beach walk along Hastings' pebbled shoreline, breathing in the salty sea air. Grab a coffee from a beachside kiosk as you watch the local fishermen preparing for their day. If you're feeling adventurous, consider signing up for a morning paddleboarding session to get a unique view of the coastline.
Spend your afternoon enjoying various water sports, such as kayaking or windsurfing, with equipment available for rent nearby. After an exhilarating few hours on the water, relax on the beach and enjoy a packed lunch or a light meal from a nearby beach café. Take some time to sunbathe or read a book, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the seaside.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a beachfront dinner at a restaurant with panoramic views of the sea. Savor delicious fish and chips or try some local craft beers while watching the sunset paint the sky in stunning colors. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere of street performers and other beachgoers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-22 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $35-60 |
| ☕Cappuccino in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🛒Grocery for a week | $40-70 |
| 🏨1-night hotel in mid-range | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich maritime history and proximity to the Battle of Hastings site
- Vibrant Old Town with independent shops, markets, and seafood
- Scenic coast, cliff-top viewpoints, and easy access to South Downs trails
- Walkable seafront and harbor area with plenty of cafes and pubs
- Can get crowded in the summer with limited parking and narrow lanes in Old Town
- Some coastal facilities shut outside peak tourist season
- Public transport can be less frequent outside peak times
Places to Visit in Hastings
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 19th-century pier offering classic seascapes at sunrise or sunset.
Historic structure and cliff backdrop with dramatic ocean views.
Colorful fisherman's sheds, cobbled streets, and sea views—great for street photography.
Panoramic vistas over Hastings, the harbor, and the coastline.
Cliff-lined shoreline with striking sea stacks and rugged beauty.
Clifftop ruins with sweeping coastal backdrops; especially photogenic at golden hour.
Food in Hastings
Hastings Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional seaside staple served hot on the seafront with chunky chips and mushy peas.
Must-Try!
Creamy pasta with local crab, lemon zest, and herbs, available in many seafront bistros.
A smoky, cheesy toasted dish featuring haddock, popular in coastal pubs.
Scones with clotted cream and jam, served with tea in cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market near the Stade offering local seafood, baked goods, and crafts.
Weekend stalls along the seafront featuring chips, pies, and quick bites with sea views.
Rotating trucks along the promenade offering diverse cuisines and daytime snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line and wait your turn; Brits generally value orderly queues and patience.
Greet with 'please' and 'thank you'; keep noise to a reasonable level in residential areas.
Follow signs at museums and ruins; ask before photographing in certain indoor spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Hastings
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in the UK; 10-15% for good table service if a service charge isn’t included.
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash remains common in markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days and blooming gardens; great for coastal walks and outdoor cafés as the town wakes up after winter.
Warmth and long days bring crowds to the seafront; excellent for beach activities, markets, and outdoor dining.
Cooler weather and dramatic skies; pleasant for cliff-top walks and fewer crowds.
Chillier with frequent sea breezes; many attractions stay open but some seafront facilities may close; cozy pubs and cafés are a draw.
Hastings at Night
Hiking in Hastings
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal cliff-top hikes with panoramic views and diverse terrain.
Dramatic coastline with accessible trails and rugged scenery.
Epic long-distance route with segments accessible from nearby towns like Lewes and Eastbourne; ideal for day trips.
Airports
How to reach Hastings by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 miles from Hastings with rail and road connections.
Large international hub roughly 60-75 miles away, accessible by road or rail via London.
Regional airport about 90+ miles away; less frequent direct connections from Hastings.
Smaller regional airport closer to the coast; limited commercial services but useful for some regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Enjoy the beaches, parks, and family-friendly eateries.
Appreciate the slower pace, gardens, and cultural events.
Explore markets, nightlife, and arts scene in the Old Town and harbor.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and friendly matches in and around Hastings.
Seasonal matches and club cricket in local grounds.
Harbor access supports sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hastings.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pubs and cafes offer veggie options; look for seasonal vegetables, quiches, and salads.
Ask about vegan dishes; numerous venues can adapt menus with salads, legumes, and plant-based mains.
Most places can accommodate gluten-free requests; check cross-contamination in shared kitchens.