Little history lesson, Hastings used to be a town where pirates and smugglers would come to hide illegal goods like rum barrels. They would bury them in tunnels dug in the caves of West Hill. Even though it mostly happened during the 17th and 18th centuries, it’s still feels like the place has retained a strange atmosphere from this era.

While wandering the streets, take the time to enter the multitude of small stores you will come across and pay attention to all the little details around you. You will quickly understand what we mean! 

Prepare yourself to make all kinds of discoveries. You’ll find a bunch of antique shops with the weirdest objects, and most shops will make you feel like you’re straight up walking in a haunted attic. Old furniture, creepy mannequins and rusty tools will be paired with beautiful jewelry, sick artwork and heavenly good-smelling candles.

Don’t try to understand it, it’s just wild. That’s what makes it so fascinating to discover. 

The old town is without a doubt the most charming area of Hastings and an absolute must-see. It’s also the main place where you will get to experience the strange vibe we just described.

The village dates from before the 19th century and has a mixture of medieval, Georgian, and Tudor architecture. You know the old, half-timbered, white and brown classic houses you picture in your head when you think of England? You’ll find super pretty ones there.

Simply stroll through the narrow streets, take a look at the many pubs, cafes and art shops and have fun picturing yourself there hundreds of years ago. 

Let’s mention here that Hastings Old Town is located between two hills, the East one and the West one (where pirated burried the rum!). Both offer an amazing view on top, but East Hill is the one if you’re looking for a huge green space and beautiful coastline walking paths!

As a matter of fact, you’ll find Hastings Country Park on top, which overlooks the old town and the sea. Save some time, because this nature reserve covers no less than 660 acres. We definitely wish we could have had more time to explore.

You don’t have to be in very good shape to reach the top by the stairs, don’t worry! As steep and high it may appear at first, you’ll be up there in less than fifteen minutes.

But you can also treat yourself to the luxury of a funicular ride. It’s not very expensive (around 3,5£ for an adult return ticket) and the view will definitely be worth it!  

Now, if you fancy a bit of history, you might want to explore West Hill. It’s where you’ll find the ruins of the Hastings castle!

It was built before the famous battle of Hastings, and you will see that it has suffered a lot over the years. Indeed, the French attacked it several times, and it has also lost some of its pieces to the sea due to the storms that slowly weakened its sandstone base over the years.

As if it wasn’t enough, WWII didn’t spare it either. So expect to see only remnants, but that doesn’t make it any less interesting!

You can reach the top by funicular, by lift or by the lovely George Street. That being said, if you plan to pay for a funicular ride, definitely opt for the one on the East Hill and reach the castle on foot, it’s not much of a big hike anyway.

I think we can all agree that coastal towns with beaches are ALWAYS pretty. There is something so therapeutic about being near the ocean.

But what makes Hastings so impressive are the beautiful cliffs of East Hill near the Old Town. You can definitely enjoy the beach anywhere all along the town, but we HIGHLY suggest you reach the Rock-A-Nore beach. It’s a bit further, but it’s so worth it!

You can go to that place by passing the black net sheds situated near the sea under East Hill, and from there, just take a walk as far as you want on the shore.

You’ll be overlooking the cliffs while you walk through the funky rocks on the beach. Enjoy the sun, the sound of the waves, the seagulls squeaking, and the majesty of the spot. It was by far our favorite moment in Hastings!

Okay, this is not the 1872’s pier at all. The original one, like the castle, has suffered a lot. It was completely destroyed by a storm in 1990, and it burnt in 2008 before finally reopening in 2016.

Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth walking to the end of the pier to get a nice overview of the town while breathing in the salty air and feeling lost at sea for a moment.

Obviously, you’ll find some arcades and places to grab a coffee or a drink on the way. 

This is for everyone, but mostly for all the bookworms out there. The walls are enterily covered by high bookshelves filled with all kinds of books. Sit down and read one of them while sipping a classic cup of English tea paired with a scone! Not to mention that there were several vegan options, much to our delight.

It’s a very unique place to catch your breath and enjoy an afternoon break, try it out!

READ MORE