Attractions and Places To See around Hastings - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Hastings include a diverse range of historic landmarks, scenic natural spaces, and cultural institutions. This historic seaside town on England's southeast coast is characterized by its ancient origins, coastal geography, and varied landscapes. Visitors can explore everything from medieval streets to expansive coastal reserves and unique maritime heritage sites. The area offers a blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Hastings
- The most popular attractions is Hastings Old Town, a settlement that invites visitors to stroll through its medieval layout and narrow alleys. This area is known for its timber-framed buildings and vibrant arts community.
- Another must-see spot is Hastings Country Park, a cave and extensive coastal reserve. Visitors can expect varied landscapes including coastal cliffs, ancient wooded glens, and numerous footpaths to explore.
- Visitors also love Ecclesbourne Beach and Waterfall, a viewpoint offering a nice view with a small path down to the beach. This spot provides a scenic coastal experience.
- Hastings is known for its historical sites, natural parks, and unique maritime heritage. The town offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to modern piers and museums.
- The attractions around Hastings are appreciated by the komoot community, with 19 highlights having received 47 upvotes and 47 photos.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Hastings Pier
Highlight • Monument
It is a wonderfully clean and open structure, with a cafe in the middle and some colourful wooden huts offering different goods and services.
Most definitely worth a visit when in Hastings!
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East Hill Cliff Railway
Highlight • Historical Site
The railway, which opened in 1902, has been ferrying holidaymakers for over a century and has become a source of local pride in Hastings.
The train runs from 11am - 4pm daily during summer and return tickets for adults cost £3.50. In winter, it only runs on weekends.
For more information, visit: visit1066country.com/things-to-do/cliff-railways-east-hill-p1424931
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Hastings Net Shops
Highlight • Historical Site
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Hastings Old Town
Highlight • Settlement
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East Hill Lift
Highlight • Structure
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Hastings Country Park
Highlight • Cave
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View of Hastings Beach Huts
Highlight • Beach
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Ecclesbourne Beach and Waterfall
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Peace Garden, Alexandra Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Cyril and Lilian Bishop Lifeboat Memorial
Highlight • Historical Site
Cyril and Lilian's Bishop was the RNLI lifeboat stationed at Hastings from 1931 to 1950, during which time she is known to have been launched 99 times and saved at least 34 lives. In addition, crewed by a naval crew, she may have saved hundreds more lives when she participated in the 1940 evacuation of British and Allied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk as part of the Dunkirk rescue, Operation Dynamo
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Tips from the Community
Surely everyone knows it and how decent the seafront can be for running and long walks… just wanted to share this highlight with you anyway.
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Several beach huts of different colors, very beautiful place!
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The East Hill Cliff Railway, or East Hill Lift, is a funicular railway in the town of Hastings in the UK. After similar systems in Broadstairs and Margate were closed, it is the steepest British railway with a gradient of up to 78%. Source: Wikipedia
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There is still a lot of fishing going on in Hastings. However, as the long beach is too narrow to lay out the fishing nets to dry, especially at high tide, Hastings has a special feature: the so-called net shops at the beach harbor, narrow, tall wooden buildings in which the nets are hung. Source: Wikipedia
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The Peace Garden is a natural garden area with art objects.
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Still an impressive feat of engineering… over 120 years after it was installed.
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Very distinctive beach sheds that are unique to this area - they used to be used to store fishing gear.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Hastings?
Hastings is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Hastings Castle, Britain's first Norman castle, offering insights into the town's past and stunning coastal views. Don't miss Hastings Old Town, with its medieval layout, narrow alleys, and timber-framed buildings. The unique Hastings Net Shops at the Stade also offer a glimpse into the town's fishing heritage.
Are there any natural parks or reserves to visit in Hastings?
Yes, nature lovers will enjoy Hastings Country Park, an expansive 853-acre coastal reserve featuring sandstone cliffs, ancient woodlands, and numerous footpaths with breathtaking sea views. For a more tranquil experience, Alexandra Park in the town center offers beautiful Victorian gardens, ponds, and green spaces perfect for a relaxing stroll.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Hastings?
Families have several options. The Hastings Pier is a great spot with a cafe and colorful beach huts. You can also take a ride on the historic East Hill Cliff Railway for panoramic views. Other family favorites include Smugglers Adventure in the St Clements Caves, Hastings Adventure Golf, and the Blue Reef Aquarium.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in Hastings?
For spectacular views, take the East Hill Cliff Railway up to Hastings Country Park, or the West Hill Lift to Hastings Castle. Both offer sweeping panoramas of the town and coastline. Ecclesbourne Beach and Waterfall also provides a scenic coastal viewpoint with a path down to the beach.
What unique cultural experiences does Hastings offer?
Hastings boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Explore the maritime history at the Hastings Fishermen's Museum and the Shipwreck Museum. For art enthusiasts, Hastings Contemporary showcases modern British art. The True Crime Museum, located in the cliffs, offers a unique and intriguing collection.
Are there hiking trails near Hastings' attractions?
Yes, the area around Hastings offers diverse hiking opportunities. Hastings Country Park has numerous footpaths and nature trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can find detailed routes, including waterfall hikes, on the Waterfall hikes around Hastings guide, which features routes like the Hastings Country Park and Saxon Shore Way Loop.
What cycling routes are available near Hastings?
Cyclists can explore various routes around Hastings. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Hastings guide, which includes routes like the Combe Valley Greenway. Road cyclists can find options on the Road Cycling Routes around Hastings guide, featuring scenic rides such as the High Weald and Cuckoo Trail Loop.
What is special about Hastings Old Town?
Hastings Old Town is particularly special for its well-preserved medieval character. Nestled between East and West Hills, it features narrow 'twittens' (alleys), timber-framed buildings, and a lively atmosphere with independent shops, cafes, and a vibrant arts community. It's a fantastic place to stroll and soak in the history.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users?
The Hastings Pier is noted as wheelchair accessible, offering a spacious modern structure to enjoy the seaside. While many historic areas may have uneven terrain, modern facilities often strive for accessibility. It's always recommended to check specific venue websites for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
What do visitors enjoy most about Hastings?
Visitors frequently praise Hastings for its unique blend of history, natural beauty, and quirky charm. Many enjoy exploring the medieval streets of Hastings Old Town, the stunning coastal views from Hastings Country Park, and the distinctive character of the Hastings Net Shops. The fresh fish available directly from the sea is also a popular highlight.
Can I find places to relax outdoors in Hastings?
Absolutely. Hastings Country Park offers vast open spaces and quiet trails for relaxation amidst nature. Alexandra Park provides beautifully maintained gardens and ponds for a peaceful escape within the town. The Hastings Pier also offers a spacious area to relax by the sea.
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