Hastings holidays

Good to know for your Hastings holiday

Planning a trip to Hastings? Here are some key details to help you make the most of your visit to this charming seaside town.

Getting There

By Train: Hastings is well-connected by train, with direct services from London, Brighton, and Ashford International. The journey from London takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a convenient destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

By Car: If you’re driving, Hastings is accessible via the A21 from London and the A259 along the coast. There are several car parks in the town centre, including Priory Meadow and Rock-a-Nore Road, but it’s advisable to check for the latest parking information and fees.

By Bus: National Express and other coach services operate routes to Hastings from various UK cities. Local buses also provide good connectivity within Hastings and to neighbouring towns and villages.

Accommodation

Hastings offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. From luxury hotels and charming B&Bs to self-catering apartments and cosy cottages, there’s something for everyone. Popular areas to stay include the Old Town, the seafront, and St Leonards-on-Sea. Check the best deals in hotels in Hastings and find the best place for your getaway.

Weather and best time to visit Hastings

Pinpointing the best time for your Hastings holidays depends on what you want to do and see.

April to June can be a fantastic time to visit as the weather is warming up, and the crowds have yet to descend. Average temperatures range from 12 to 18°C, with 30 to 60mm of rainfall and about 8 hours of sunshine daily.

July to August is peak season. Expect bustling beaches and lots of events, including the Hastings Old Town Carnival. Average temperatures hover around 21°C, with 50 to 70mm of rainfall and about 10 hours of sunshine.

September to November is ideal for those who enjoy a quieter holiday. The weather is still pleasant, and it's an excellent time for exploring the historical sites. Average temperatures range from 11 to 18°C, with 50 to 90mm of rainfall and about 6 to 7 hours of sunshine.

December to March offers a more peaceful experience. Although it's colder, with temperatures between 5 to 10°C and 70 to 100mm of rainfall, the off-season charm and fewer crowds make it a wonderful time for a cosy retreat.

Practical information

• Getting around: Hastings has a reliable bus service with single journey fares costing £2; DayRider tickets cost £5.50 and offer unlimited one-day travel. You can buy tickets onboard or via the Stagecoach app. The town is very walkable. Cycling is also encouraged, with several bike-friendly paths available.

Best things to do in Hastings

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing seaside retreat, holidays to Hastings have something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• West Hill: Take the funicular railway to West Hill for panoramic views of the Old Town and the coastline.

• East Hill: Another fab spot for stunning views, East Hill is accessible via a Victorian funicular and provides excellent vantage points over the town and the English Channel.

The best districts

• Old Town: Wander through the characterful, narrow, winding streets of Hastings Old Town, filled with quaint shops, antique stores and cosy pubs.

• St Leonards: A quieter alternative to the bustling Old Town, St Leonards is known for its Regency architecture and artistic vibe. It offers galleries, cafés and a lovely promenade.

Parks and gardens

• Alexandra Park: This beautifully landscaped park is ideal for a stroll. It features ornamental gardens, a boating lake and plenty of space for picnics.

• St Leonards Gardens: Roughly 2km from the centre of Hastings, these lovely 19th-century ornamental gardens are perfectly situated in a steep-sided natural valley.

• St Helens Park Local Nature Reserve: With meadows, ancient woodlands and freshwater ponds, St Helens is a lovely spot for a ramble.

Museums

• Shipwreck Museum: Small but intriguing, the museum holds numerous artefacts from ships wrecked in the English Channel and collections of locally found fossils.

• Hastings Fishermen’s Museum: Dedicated to the town’s fishing industry and maritime heritage, this little museum is niche but interesting. Even if nautical history isn’t your thing, it's worth stopping by to check out the building, a grade II-listed mission chapel.

• Flower Makers’ Museum: This is a one-of-a-kind museum with displays of artificial flowers and all the requisite tools of the trade.

• Hastings Contemporary: One of the trio of galleries on Sussex’s Coastal Culture Trail (Towner Eastbourne in Eastbourne and the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill are the other two), Hastings Contemporary has a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art. The gallery building is no slouch in the looks department either; it’s notched up several architectural awards.

• Smugglers Adventure: Dive into the town’s smuggling history with a visit to Smugglers Adventure, located in St Clement’s Caves. The interactive exhibits are fun for all ages.

Historical monuments

• Hastings Castle: Perched on West Hill, the ruins of Hastings Castle offer a glimpse into the town’s Norman past. Explore the remnants of this once-formidable fortress and enjoy the scenic views.

• Hastings Pier: The pier is an excellent spot for a walk. Enjoy views of the seafront and maybe catch a live performance or market.

• Battle Abbey: About 10km north of Hastings, Battle Abbey marks the site of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. The visitor centre and audio tours bring this pivotal historic moment to life.

Day trips in the area

• Rye: A picturesque medieval town with cobbled streets and historic buildings, Rye is perfect for a day trip. Visit Rye Castle Museum and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the charming cafés.

• Bodiam Castle: This fairy-tale castle, surrounded by a moat, is a short drive from Hastings. It’s an excellent place for a family outing, with plenty of open spaces and historical insights.

Activities for families

Hastings offers a variety of family-friendly activities, ensuring a fun-filled holiday for all ages.

• Aquariums and zoos: The Blue Reef Aquarium is home to a variety of marine life. Kids will love the underwater tunnel and hands-on rockpool experience.

• Adventure Golf: Located on the seafront, this crazy golf course features a pirate theme and is a great family activity.

• Miniature Railways: Take a ride on Hastings Miniature Railway. This charming railway runs along the seafront and is a delightful way to see the sights and entertain the little ones.

• Rides and attractions: Hastings seafront is dotted with traditional amusements, including arcades, fairground rides and ice cream stands, perfect for a classic British seaside experience.

Free things to do in Hastings

Hastings has plenty of free attractions and activities, so you can still have a jam-packed itinerary even on a tight budget.

• Annual festivals: Hastings hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the famous Jack in the Green in May and the Hastings Seafood & Wine Festival in September.

• Museums: The Hastings Museum and Art Gallery showcases local history, art and culture, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. For the full low-down on the town’s history, pop into Hastings History House. You can also pick up leaflets on local walks here.

• Beaches: Hastings has several beaches (albeit pebbly rather than sandy). Hastings Beach, with its central location, is the most visited, Rock-a-Nore is the smallest (and most sheltered), and St Leonards is the quietest, but there are many others to explore.

Wellness in Hastings

• Spas and thermal baths: Treat yourself to a day of pampering at a local spa. From massages to facials, you’ll find a range of treatments to help you relax and recharge.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Join a yoga session by the beach or in one of the town’s wellness centres. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the calming influence of the sea.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Explore the extensive trails in Hastings Country Park, which offers diverse landscapes, from woodlands to clifftops, and a chance to spot local wildlife.

• Cycling: Rent a bike and ride along the seafront or venture into the countryside. Numerous cycling routes cater to all levels of experience.

• Fishing: Join a local fishing tour for a day out at sea. The waters around Hastings are rich with marine life.

• Bird-watching: The coastal and woodland areas around Hastings are excellent for bird-watching. Look out for species such as kestrels, peregrines and various seabirds.

Beaches in Hastings

Hastings boasts a stunning coastline with a variety of beaches to suit all tastes, whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, scenic walks, or a peaceful retreat by the sea. Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches you can enjoy during your holiday.

Hastings main beach

Central and Convenient Located near the town centre, Hastings Main Beach is a shingle beach that offers easy access to many of the town’s attractions, including the pier, amusements, and numerous cafes and restaurants. This beach is ideal for families, with plenty of space for picnics, beach games, and a designated swimming area during the summer months.

Highlights:

• Close to amenities and attractions

• Lifeguarded swimming area in the summer

• Plenty of dining options nearby

St Leonards Beach

Relaxed and Scenic Just west of Hastings, St Leonards Beach offers a quieter alternative to the bustling main beach. This shingle beach is perfect for a more relaxed day by the sea, with beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. The promenade here is ideal for a leisurely stroll, and there are several charming cafes and restaurants along the way.

Highlights:

• Quieter and less crowded

• Beautiful promenade for walks

• Scenic views and relaxed atmosphere

Rock-a-Nore Beach

Historic and Picturesque Situated at the eastern end of Hastings Old Town, Rock-a-Nore Beach is known for its dramatic cliffs and historic fishing huts. This beach is great for exploring the natural beauty of the area, with rock pools to investigate at low tide and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. The nearby Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and Shipwreck Museum add a touch of history to your beach visit.

Highlights:

• Dramatic cliffs and scenic views

• Rock pools and natural beauty

• Close to historic museums

Pelham Beach

Family-Friendly Fun Pelham Beach, located near Hastings Pier, is a popular spot for families. The beach is well-maintained and features a safe swimming area, making it perfect for children. The seafront here includes a playground and amusement arcades, providing plenty of entertainment for a fun-filled day at the beach.

Highlights:

• Safe and clean swimming area

• Playgrounds and amusement arcades

• Ideal for families with children

Bulverhythe Beach

Peaceful and Natural For those seeking a more tranquil beach experience, Bulverhythe Beach is an excellent choice. Located to the west of St Leonards, this beach offers a peaceful setting away from the crowds. It’s a great spot for beachcombing and enjoying the natural surroundings. At low tide, the remains of the Amsterdam shipwreck can be seen, adding an element of intrigue to your visit.

Highlights:

• Peaceful and less crowded

• Natural surroundings and beachcombing

• Historic shipwreck visible at low tide

Pett Level Beach

Wild and Rugged A short drive from Hastings, Pett Level Beach offers a more rugged and wild coastal experience. This beach is known for its fossil-hunting opportunities and the ancient submerged forest visible at low tide. It’s a great place for walking, bird-watching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the coastline.

Highlights:

• Fossil-hunting and ancient submerged forest

• Ideal for walking and bird-watching

• Rugged and natural beauty

Tips for visiting Hastings beaches

• Tide Times: Check the tide times before you visit, especially if you plan to explore rock pools or the shipwreck at Bulverhythe.

• Facilities: While some beaches have amenities like cafes and restrooms, others are more secluded, so plan accordingly.

• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as coastal weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers and sun protection.

By exploring these diverse beaches, you can experience the best of what Hastings has to offer, from lively family-friendly spots to serene natural retreats. Enjoy the beautiful coastline and make the most of your seaside holiday!

Local dishes in Hastings

One delight of holidays to Hastings is discovering the town's thriving food scene, fresh-off-the-boat seafood along the Rock-a-Nore Road, hearty pub fare in the Old Town and street food in St Leonards.

Some typical dishes

• Fish and chips: On seaside holidays, freshly battered fried fish and chunky chips are almost a rite of passage.

• Sussex Smokies: A traditional Sussex fish dish, baked smoked haddock with cream and cheese sauce and breadcrumb topping.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Seafood Platter: Sample the local catch with a seafood platter of winkles, whelks, crab and prawns.

• Rye Bay Scallops: Nearby Rye is famous for its scallops, so much so that it even has a festival to kickstart the scallop season. Scallops are at their biggest and most delicious towards the end of February and early March.

Street food

The Heist indoor street market offers an array of street food from across the world. You can find everything from gourmet burgers and hotdogs to Japanese dishes and Mexican tacos.

Sweets and desserts

• Sussex Pond Pudding: A steamed or boiled pudding, Sussex Pond Pudding consists of suet pastry filled with butter, sugar and a whole lemon.

• Banoffee Pie: Invented in Sussex in the 1970s, this banana, cream and toffee dessert has become a British classic.

Local drinks

• Harvey’s Brewery Ales: Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes, the oldest independent brewery in Sussex, produces a range of traditional ales widely enjoyed in Hastings. For an authentic taste of the county, try their Best Bitter.

• English Sparkling Wine: The Sussex region is known for its excellent sparkling wines. For local bubbly, try Carr Taylor Vineyards.