Hastings is a historic seaside town and borough on England's south coast in East Sussex, located approximately 85 km southeast of London. It is best known as the site of the famous 1066 Battle of Hastings, which occurred nearby at Senlac Hill. Historically one of the medieval Cinque Ports, Hastings retains a rich maritime heritage and remains a popular seaside resort. Today, it is also a working fishing port, home to the UK's largest beach-based fishing fleet. With an estimated population of over 91,000, the town offers a blend of historical charm and coastal leisure. For hotel travelers, Hastings provides a unique base to explore medieval architecture, enjoy the beach, and experience the local fishing culture, all within easy reach of London via rail.
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The Old Town area features narrow medieval streets and boutique accommodations, ideal for travelers seeking historical ambiance. The Seafront district offers traditional resort-style hotels with direct access to the beach and coastal views, perfect for leisure stays.
London is approximately 85 km away, reachable by train in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The town center is compact, making the Old Town highly walkable. Buses connect the seafront and key attractions, facilitating easy movement for guests.
Summer is the peak season for seaside activities with pleasant weather. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds, making them ideal for travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere to explore the town's history and coastal scenery.
Grade I listed ruins in Hastings, East Sussex, England, UK
Benedictine abbey in Battle, East Sussex, England, UK
18th-century cargo ship of the Dutch East India Company
woodland in Hastings, East Sussex, England, UK
pier in Hastings, England
grade II listed church in Hastings, East Sussex, England, UK
hill in East Sussex, England, UK
grade II listed church in St Leonards-on-Sea, United Kingdom
church in Hastings, East Sussex, England, UK
grade II listed church in St Leonards-on-Sea, United Kingdom
church in St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, England, UK
church building in Hastings, East Sussex, England, UK
This friendly town centre dining pub is set within a boldly painted Victorian building and has a lovely vintage feel; if you want a table in the bar area, be sure to arrive early, as it’s first-come, first-served. The regularly changing menu has a strong British heart combined with a Mediterranean touch, resulting in gutsy, good value dishes like ox tongue and piccalilli or melting squid ragout with fennel, orzo and tapenade. It's the sort of pub everyone wants at the bottom of their street.
WebsiteChef Jack Lury skilfully blends his British, European and Sri Lankan heritage at this personal little restaurant in the town centre. Look out for the discreet entrance, then head down to the relaxed dining room where Lury cooks alone for just 10 diners. His original tasting menu is filled with enticing, interesting dishes that enhance British ingredients with deft spicing. Stand-out dishes include the likes of puréed aubergine with mustard seeds, crunchy turnip and Brussels sprouts, or tender venison with a spiced garlic sauce.
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