Top 10 Things to do in Hastings

Things to do in Hastings

Welcome to Hastings, a charming seaside town located in the county of East Sussex! Whether you are a history buff, an art lover or simply looking for some fun recreational activities with your family and friends, Hastings has something to offer everyone. From its stunning parks and beaches to its ancient castles and museums, this vibrant town is full of exciting things to do.

1. Alexandra Park

Located on top of a hill, Alexandra Park offers stunning panoramic views of Hastings and its surroundings. This picturesque park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hastings and for good reason! The park has plenty to offer visitors, including an impressive boating lake where you can rent paddle boats or feed the ducks.

The lush greenery of the park makes it perfect for picnics with family and friends. Additionally, there are several walking trails within the park that will take you through beautiful gardens and wooded areas. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at mini-golf or take a ride on the miniature railway?

For those looking to relax, there’s even a charming cafe located within the park serving hot drinks and snacks. In addition to all these activities, Alexandra Park also hosts regular events throughout the year such as concerts and fairs that make it a must-visit destination when in Hastings!

2. Old Town Hastings

Old Town Hastings is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the area. The charming and historic streets are lined with picturesque buildings that date back as far as the 16th century. You’ll find plenty of independent shops, cafes, galleries, and pubs to explore in this quaint part of town.

One of the highlights of Old Town Hastings is undoubtedly its fishing heritage. Visitors can watch fishermen bring in their daily catch at Rock-a-Nore or visit the Fishermen’s Museum to learn more about the industry’s history.

Another must-see attraction in Old Town Hastings is the stunning St Clements Caves. These caves were once used by smugglers but now offer visitors an exciting glimpse into local history through guided tours.

For those looking for something more tranquil, you can stroll along High Street where you’ll find an array of antique shops and boutiques selling unique treasures. There are also plenty of restaurants serving up delicious seafood dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Old Town Hastings offers visitors a chance to step back in time while enjoying all modern amenities that make your trip unforgettable!

3. Hastings Castle

Hastings Castle is a historic landmark located atop West Hill overlooking Hastings Old Town and the English Channel. The castle dates back to 1066 when William the Conqueror landed in England, making it an important site for history enthusiasts.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and imagine what life was like during medieval times. From the top of the castle walls, you can enjoy breath-taking views of Hastings town and its surroundings.

One notable feature of Hastings Castle is a unique spiral staircase that leads visitors down into a hidden underground chamber. This secret chamber housed prisoners during medieval times, adding to the eerie historical ambiance that surrounds this ancient ruin.

In addition to exploring the castle itself, tourists can also check out exhibitions on display at nearby Smugglers Adventure Museum which offers insight into smuggling activities along Sussex coastlines from centuries ago.

If you’re looking for an exciting trip through time while enjoying stunning views then Hastings Castle is definitely worth visiting!

4. Hastings Pier

Hastings Pier is a quintessential landmark in the town of Hastings and has been standing for over 150 years. The pier was opened to visitors in 1872 and underwent several renovations before it was tragically destroyed by fire in 2010. However, the pier has since been rebuilt and reopened to the public in 2016.

The new pier boasts stunning views of the English Channel and is home to an array of attractions such as bars, restaurants, shops, amusement arcades, and even a concert hall. Visitors can enjoy live music performances while taking a stroll on the seafront promenade or indulge themselves with some delicious seafood at one of its many eateries.

Additionally, there are plenty of fun activities available for kids such as crazy golf courses and arcade games. Visitors can also take part in various water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding along Hastings’ beautiful coastline.

Hastings Pier offers something for everyone making it an ideal place for tourists looking to spend quality time with their family or friends while enjoying breath-taking sea views that will leave unforgettable memories!

5. Old Roar Gill

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Hastings, Old Roar Gill is definitely worth a visit. This hidden gem can be found just outside of the town centre and offers stunning views of nature.

As you make your way through the wooded area, listen out for the sound of water trickling down the stream – it’s incredibly tranquil. The trail is well-maintained with plenty of benches to rest on along the way.

One thing that makes Old Roar Gill unique is its history; it was once used by smugglers as a route to transport contraband goods in and out of Hastings. It’s fascinating to imagine what this picturesque location would have looked like back then!

If you’re after some peace and quiet in natural surroundings while learning about local history, Old Roar Gill won’t disappoint.

6. Smugglers Adventure

Smugglers Adventure is an exciting attraction in the heart of Hastings Old Town. This underground adventure takes visitors through a network of caves and tunnels that were once used by smugglers to bring contraband goods into the town.

The interactive displays throughout Smugglers Adventure really bring its history to life, allowing visitors to experience what it would have been like for smugglers back in the day. The sound effects and lighting create an immersive environment, adding to the overall atmosphere of the attraction.

One highlight of Smugglers Adventure is its interactive exhibitions where you can learn about the tools and techniques used during smuggling operations back then. You’ll also get a chance to see some interesting artifacts from that time period.

Another feature worth mentioning is their guided tours, which provide even more insight into this fascinating world beneath our feet. Furthermore, there’s plenty for children too with fun-filled activities such as treasure hunts available upon request.

Smugglers Adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore Hastings’ past while providing entertainment for all ages!

7. The Stade Beach

The Stade Beach is an iconic spot in Hastings that offers a unique experience for visitors. The beach is located in the Old Town of Hastings and is known for its shingle shoreline. It’s an excellent place to soak up some sun, relax, and watch the world go by.

One interesting feature of the Stade Beach is its fishing fleet which has been active since medieval times. Visitors can observe fishermen bringing in their catch and selling it directly from their boats on the beachfront. Freshly caught fish like cod, haddock, mackerel are all available for purchase.

For those interested in art, there are several galleries nearby showcasing works by local artists, including painters who specialize in marine scenes or still life paintings featuring fish.

Visitors can also take part in various water-based activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding or enjoy a scenic walk along the promenade that offers breath-taking views over the English Channel.

The Stade Beach is an excellent location to spend your day with family or friends while immersing yourself in history-rich surroundings and enjoying fresh seafood straight from the boats!

8. Hastings Museum & Art Gallery

Hastings Museum & Art Gallery is one of the must-visit places in Hastings for art and history enthusiasts. The museum has a vast collection of artifacts, fossils, natural history specimens, and cultural exhibits from around the world.

The gallery section features an impressive collection of contemporary British art with works by renowned artists such as Quentin Blake and Grayson Perry. Visitors can enjoy well-curated exhibitions throughout the year that showcase different themes or topics.

One notable exhibit at the museum is the Durbar Hall – a stunning room designed to replicate an Indian palace hall complete with intricate wooden carvings on its ceiling and walls. It’s hard not to be awed by its grandeur!

Children are also catered for at Hastings Museum & Art Gallery with interactive displays, hands-on activities, and workshops suitable for all ages. Plus, admission to this fantastic attraction is free!

Visiting Hastings Museum & Art Gallery should definitely be on your list of things to do in Hastings if you’re looking for something educational yet entertaining during your stay!

9. Pett Level Beach

Pett Level Beach is one of the hidden gems in Hastings that offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. This beach is perfect for those who want to escape from the busy crowd and enjoy nature’s beauty. The pebble beach stretches for miles, providing visitors with ample opportunities to take long walks or enjoy a picnic.

One of the unique features of Pett Level Beach is its vast tidal range, which creates an ever-changing landscape throughout the day. During low tide, you can explore rock pools filled with marine life such as crabs and starfish. When high tide comes in, it covers most of the beach but provides a great opportunity for swimming and paddling.

The beach has plenty of amenities nearby like public toilets, parking spaces and cafes where you can grab something to eat or drink while enjoying views of the coastline. There are also several walking paths that lead through nearby fields offering stunning views overlooking Rye Bay.

Pett Level Beach is worth visiting if you’re looking for some peace and quiet away from other tourist spots in Hastings. Its natural beauty and serene ambiance make it one-of-a-kind on your list of things to do in Hastings!

10. East Hill Lift

So, there you have it, the top 10 things to do in Hastings! From exploring historical landmarks like Hastings Castle to experiencing thrilling adventures at Smugglers Adventure, there’s truly something for everyone in this charming seaside town.

And last but not least, we can’t forget about the East Hill Lift. This funicular railway is a must-visit attraction that offers stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside from its summit. Hop aboard and enjoy a scenic ride up to the top of East Hill, where you can take in panoramic vistas and even grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby cafes.

Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or staying for an extended vacation, Hastings has plenty of activities and sights to keep you entertained. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your next adventure today!