Things To Do
in Hastings
Hastings is a historic seaside town located on the south coast of England. It is known for its picturesque old town with narrow streets and half-timbered buildings. Hastings is famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II.
The town has a vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and a lively fishing community.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along Hastings Beach, feeling the sand between your toes. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze.
Head to the East Hill Cliff Railway for stunning views of the coastline. Spend some time exploring the quaint shops and eateries in the Old Town.
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a charming restaurant overlooking the marina. Wind down with a leisurely walk along the seafront as the sun sets.
Visit the ruins of Hastings Castle and learn about the town's rich history. Take in the panoramic views from the castle grounds.
Explore the Hastings Museum and Art Gallery to discover local artifacts and artworks. Don’t forget to check out the nearby Smugglers Adventure for a fun, interactive experience.
Dine in one of Hastings ’ historic pubs with a traditional meal. Enjoy the nightlife at a local tavern with live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical significance, including notable landmarks like Hastings Castle and the Old Town.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches, making it a popular destination for tourists.
- A vibrant arts and culture scene, with events like the Hastings Seafood and Wine Festival.
- Community-oriented, with a friendly atmosphere and various local events and markets.
- Accessible transport links, including a train service to London and other parts of the UK.
- Occasional issues with seasonal tourism that can lead to overcrowding during peak times.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, which can be a challenge for residents.
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas, particularly in housing.
- Public services may be less comprehensive than in larger cities.
- Potential for coastal erosion and flooding risks due to its seaside location.
Best Activities in Hastings
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking and stunning coastal views at Hastings Country Park.
Relax on the beautiful sandy beach and take part in various water sports at Camber Sands Beach.
Explore the underground caverns and learn about the smugglers' secrets at Smugglers Adventure.
Places to Visit in Hastings
Visit one of these nice places.
Provides panoramic views of the town and the English Channel
Offers stunning vistas of the town, the sea, and the Old Town area
Features breathtaking coastal views and landscape photography opportunities
Food in Hastings
Hastings Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty breakfast featuring locally caught fish, served with eggs, bacon, and toast. Try it at Maggies Fish & Chips.
Must-Try!
A savory pie filled with a variety of fresh seafood, a specialty at Webbe's at Jerwood Gallery.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
These stalls offer a variety of fresh seafood, including the famous Hastings fish and chips, and are perfect for a quick and delicious meal by the sea.
Enjoy a wide range of local produce, artisanal products, and street food every Thursday at Robertson Street.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hastings, it's important to be mindful of personal space and to avoid standing too close to others when engaging in conversation.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Hastings. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in both formal and informal interactions.
Hastings has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to show respect for local traditions and history, such as the fishing industry and the annual Hastings Pirate Day festival.
Safety
Tipping in Hastings
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Hastings, United Kingdom, is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for exceptional service. A 10-15% tip is customary if the service charge is not included in the bill.
In Hastings, United Kingdom, cash, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted for payments. Contactless payment methods are also common, and many businesses also accept mobile payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Hastings as the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful gardens and parks coming to life with blossoming flowers.
Peak tourist season with pleasant weather, perfect for beach activities, outdoor events, and festivals. The town is bustling with tourists and there are various cultural events and music festivals taking place.
Milder weather with fewer tourists, making it a good time to explore historical sites and museums without the crowds. The fall foliage adds a beautiful touch to the landscape.
Quieter period with colder weather. Visitors can experience a more serene atmosphere and enjoy cozy indoor activities like visiting local pubs and restaurants.
Hastings at Night
Hiking in Hastings
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area of woodland and coastal cliffs offering a variety of trails with stunning views over the English Channel.
A scenic walking route connecting Bexhill and Hastings, featuring coastal views and easy access to various trails.
A picturesque walk around the historic Bodiam Castle with lovely countryside views, ideal for a leisurely hike.
A challenging hike with rewarding views overlooking the surrounding countryside and Hastings.
A long-distance path that links Hastings to Rye, taking you through beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
Aiports
How to reach Hastings by plane.
Located approximately 45 miles northwest of Hastings, Gatwick is the second largest airport in London and a major international gateway.
Situated about 60 miles northwest of Hastings, Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves numerous international destinations.
Located around 70 miles from Hastings, London City Airport primarily serves business travelers and has various international flights.
Approximately 70 miles northeast of Hastings, Stansted is a key airport for budget airlines connecting to Europe and beyond.
Located about 80 miles northeast of Hastings, Southend serves mainly low-cost airlines and various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising residents who identify as White British.
Includes residents identifying as White Irish, White Gypsy or Traveller, and other White backgrounds.
Includes those identifying as having multiple ethnic backgrounds, such as White and Black Caribbean.
Comprises individuals from South Asian and East Asian backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Chinese, and other Asian ethnicities.
Includes individuals identifying as Black African, Black Caribbean, and other Black backgrounds.
A small category that encompasses a variety of other ethnic identities not classified in the previous groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Hastings, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Rugby has a substantial presence in Hastings, with clubs within the town participating in regional leagues.
Cricket is widely played in Hastings, with several local teams competing in various leagues during the summer months.
Tennis is enjoyed by many in Hastings, with facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.
Running has gained popularity in Hastings, with local groups organizing regular events and races.
Being a coastal town, Hastings offers opportunities for water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Cycling is popular in Hastings, with many scenic routes available for both casual riders and competitive cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hastings.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Hastings offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including The Beacon and Trinity Wholefoods Cafe.
Restaurants like Pico's Kitchen and Si! Pizza provide delicious gluten-free options, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy the local cuisine.