Coast, culture and fun for all ages
Have you heard the buzz about Hastings? This Sussex seaside town is becoming as famous for its arty scene and coastal charm as it is for the battle in 1066. Only 1hr 30mins from London Bridge by train, it’s perfect for swapping the Big Smoke for the sea air – especially if you have little ones in tow.
Here’s our rundown of what to see and do on a car-free, whistlestop tour of the south coast’s best-kept secret.
Coffee and cake in the Old Town
The train pulls in about 500m from the seafront, near the newer part of town. Your first port of call will be the delightful Penbuckles Delicatessen, nestled in the heart of the Old Town – just a 20-minute walk away.
Make your way along Station Road and through the Priory Meadow shopping centre, then head down Wellington Place until you reach the subway. Remember to look up at the intricate Old Town mosaics as you pass through.
On the other side, you’ll have your first good glimpse of the sea. Follow the seafront for a short while before turning onto George Street – a narrow lane lined with timber-framed coffee shops, gift shops and all manner of boutiques.
Soon you’ll reach the old High Street, where you’ll stumble across Penbuckles. It’s a small shop with a picture-perfect facade, serving coffee and cake for now, as well as fine wines, artisanal cheeses and charcuterie for later.
Rather take the bus from the station? Not a problem. Jump on the 101, 100, or 321.
Explore the Hastings seafront
Caffeine-levels topped up? You're all set. From the delicatessen, stroll down to the seafront and along Rock-a-Nore Road. Here, you’ll see Hastings’ iconic fishing huts – tall, weatherboarded black buildings that were once used by fleets to hang their nets.
Opposite the huts is the historic East Hill funicular, which dates back over 120 years. It takes you up a cliff face to the entrance of Hastings Country Park (you may have to save this for another time), where you’ll see sweeping panoramic views over the Channel and the Old Town.
When you’re ready, just hop on the funicular or take the steps back down.
Camouflaged among the black huts at the foot of the funicular is Hastings Contemporary – a popular gallery that attracts art-lovers from far and wide. Expect to see contemporary works, with a particular focus on the sea and sustainability. There’s an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions, as well as talks, tours and drawing classes. Entry is no more than £11 for adults, and free for under 18s.
Next up, head a few doors over to the Shipwreck Museum – a fascinating destination for children and grown-ups alike. See part of a Roman ship, test your knot-tying skills, or marvel at 140-million-year-old dinosaur fossils. Entry’s free, with a suggested donation of £5, so it’s well worth popping in and learning some unusual local and maritime history.
Where to lunch in Hastings?
After an action-packed morning, you'll no doubt have worked up an appetite. Any of these spots will hit the spot.
The Crown
Tucked away in the Old Town, The Crown is a relaxed, friendly pub serving traditional fare from midday onwards. You know those places that feel like a hug? This is one of them.
Webbe's Rock-a-Nore
Seafood on the seafront. With ingredients going straight from boat to kitchen, Webbe's Rock-a-Nore specialises in fresh dishes, beautifully presented.
Maggie's Fish & Chips
More than a chippy. A local institution. Maggie's was traditionally run by fishermen's wives. Today, it's much-loved for its shingle-side fish suppers.
Rock a Nore Kitchen
A chalkboard menu in a humble fish hut setting, with delicious locally sourced dishes. Rock a Nore Kitchen is just plain cool. It's in the Good Food Guide, too, need we say anymore.
Coquina
Want a post-gallery bite? Coquina is attached to Hastings Contemporary, boasting super floor-to-ceiling sea views. The ultimate place for tapas on the south coast.
Seaside fun for all ages
Of course, you can’t come to Hastings without enjoying a few quintessentially seaside activities.
Fancy the arcades? Take your pick of places along the promenade. Turn your pound notes into pennies, and try your luck on nostalgic games like the coin pushers and crane grabbers. There are also racing simulators, dance mats, air hockey, shoot-em-ups, and more.
Or how about picking up a putter? Hastings Adventure Golf holds the World Crazy Golf Championships. There are three themed courses to choose from. Adventure is the hardest, Crazy is a little easier, and the Pirate course is designed for all ages – and all abilities.
If you’ve packed your swimming cossie – and the weather allows – you can also enjoy a dip or a paddle, then dry off in Samphire Sauna on Hastings Pier. There are public toilets along Rock-a-Nore-Road, near the car park, for changing into your costume. Just remember that the beach is shingled, so pack some flip flops.
After all that, make your way to Bottle Alley – a 480m promenade built in the 1930s, on the western side of the pier. Made up of coloured glass fragments embedded in a wall, it’s one of those quirky curiosities that you can’t help but love.
Dinner, drinks... and halfpipes
Before heading home, there’s still time for a final pitstop at Source Park, which is a pebble’s throw from Bottle Alley. Set inside the former Victorian swimming baths, Source has a buzzing courtyard where anyone can pop in for dinner and drinks.
If you want one last activity for the kids – or are feeling brave yourself – Source is also home to the UK’s largest underground skatepark, with one-to-one lessons and equipment to hire.
Whether you're skating or not, here are some top courtyard destinations to choose from.
Brewing Brothers
A local craft beer brewery with 26 taps, as well as wine, cocktails, soft drinks and coffee. Outdoor covering makes Brewing Brothers a destination for all seasons.
Winifred's
A bijou restaurant with a big reputation. Winifred’s serves small plates with local, seasonal ingredients, in a cosy, casual setting.
The Patty Guy
Founded by MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt, The Patty Guy serves up burgers, shakes and sides that will have you coming back for more.
The Italian Corner
A delicatessen serving belissima street food. Pizza, focaccia, tiramisu, paninis – everything at The Italian Corner is made with authentic flair.
Shiosai Sushi
From the Land of the Rising Sun to setting suns in Sussex. Head to Shiosai Sushi for classic Japanese dishes, with yuzu cocktails and sparkling sake.
When the time comes to jump on the train home, follow the seafront until you get to Harold Place, then take a left and continue straight up Havelock Road until you reach the station.
Ashford International to London St Pancras
