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Wondering what the best things to do in Hastings are?
Hastings has so much seaside-town character, and I love coming back to visit friends and family whenever I can. I actually grew up here, and the more time I spend living in London, the more I find myself drawn back. There are endless lovely things to do in Hastings that make it the perfect place to escape the city and relax.
In this post, I’ll take you through the 14 best things to do in Hastings (2025 edition) – from the well-known, well-loved classics to a few hidden gems you’d only know about if you’ve spent real time here. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a day trip, this guide will help you experience Hastings like a local.
The 14 Best Things to Do in Hastings
Ready to explore? These are the spots I always take friends when they visit – the places that show off Hastings’ lovely character and charm. Imagine beautiful coastal views, cosy pubs, surprisingly great food and a creative feel throughout. Here are the best 14 things to do in Hastings, according to a born-and-bred local!
1. Wander Hastings Old Town & Discover the Twittens
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Hastings, start in the Old Town. This is the most atmospheric part of the town, full of independent shops, cosy pubs, cafés and colourful historic buildings. Wander along George Street and the High Street, dipping in and out of the boutiques and antique shops as you go.
Make sure to explore the twittens (the narrow, hidden passageways that run up the hillside). They’re easy to miss, but that’s part of the fun – they reveal quiet viewpoints, crooked cottages and some of the oldest streets in Hastings. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the old town charm, and you can easily spend a couple of hours just getting pleasantly lost here.
2. Browse the Antique & Independent Shops
Hastings is known for its vintage and independent shopping, and it’s one of the most enjoyable things to do while you’re here. The Old Town and nearby St Leonards are full of antique warehouses, bric-a-brac shops and beautifully curated boutiques. Whether you’re hunting for furniture, browsing books or just window shopping, it’s easy to lose track of time (in the best way). Here are some of the best you can’t miss:
3. Explore the Net Huts & Fishing Beach
One of the most iconic things to do in Hastings is to visit the black wooden net huts and the working fishing beach at Rock-a-Nore. This is the oldest beach-launched fishing fleet in England, so you’ll still see boats hauled up on the shingle and fishermen mending their nets. The tall, tar-covered net huts are completely unique to Hastings and it’s a great place for photos.
4. Stop for a Pint in an Old Town Pub
A proper pub stop is a must when you’re in Hastings, and the Old Town has some of the best. The FILO (First In Last Out) is my favourite as it’s super cosy and friendly. The Crown is another standout, with great food, local beers and natural wines, while Dragon Bar is perfect later on for a slightly moodier, romantic vibe. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon pint outside or a slow evening drink, the pub scene here is a big part of why Hastings feels so welcoming.
5. Visit the Hastings Contemporary & Fisherman’s Museum
Right by the fishing beach, you’ll find two great spots to dip into for a dose of culture and local history. Hastings Contemporary hosts thoughtful exhibitions with big windows overlooking the sea. Even just a quick wander is worth it for the setting alone.
A few steps away, the Fisherman’s Museum is much smaller and more old-school, but full of charm. It’s inside a former church and tells the story of the town’s fishing community (there’s even a full-sized boat inside). Together, they make the perfect little loop before or after exploring the seafront.
6. Ride the East Hill Lift to Hastings Country Park
One of the best things to do in Hastings for views is to take the East Hill Lift from Rock-a-Nore up to the clifftops. It’s the oldest working funicular in the UK and saves you the steep walk up, plus the ride itself is part of the fun. At the top, you’ll find Hastings Country Park, with miles of coastal paths, wildflower meadows and huge sea views. It’s a beautiful place for a slow wander or a longer cliff walk if you’re making a day of it.
7. Wander Rock-a-Nore & Fairlight Glen
If you’re up for a bit more exploring, wander east along Rock-a-Nore towards Fairlight Glen. This stretch of coastline feels wild and rugged with dramatic cliffs to your left and the sea to your right. On a calm day, you can follow the shoreline quite far, but always check tide times if you’re venturing beyond the main beach. Even just walking to the edge of the cliffs for the views is worth it.
8. Enjoy Fresh Seafood & Other Great Local Eats
Hastings has a surprisingly great food scene for a small seaside town. There are lots of independent spots, proper comfort food, and plenty of fresh local seafood thanks to the working fishing beach. Whether you’re after a cosy pub lunch or something a bit more special, there’s always somewhere good to eat here. A few local favourites to check out:
- Sumisu Ramen @ Stooges Café – Delicious ramen pop-up, relaxed and always tasty.
- St Clement’s – Modern British dishes, seasonal and beautifully done (book ahead!).
- Yazze Café Bistro & Meze Bar – Middle Eastern & Mediterranean plates, warm and generous.
- Half Man! Half Burger – Great for casual, satisfying burgers with veggie options.
- Monellis Sourdough Gourmet Pizza – Family-run, friendly and genuinely excellent pizza.
- Arigato – Fresh sushi and Japanese dishes, a proper hidden gem.
- Farmyard – Natural wines and small plates, great for a slow dinner.
- Bayte – Cosy brunch and sharing plates.
- Boulevard Bookshop & Thai Café – Bookshop by day, Thai restaurant by night. Charming, tiny and delicious.
9. Play Mini Golf + Hit the Arcades
Lean into the classic seaside fun with a round of mini golf on the seafront (there are three courses to choose from, including a pirate one!), then head to the arcades for 2p machines, air hockey and plenty of nostalgia. It’s silly, fun, and very Hastings.
10. Visit St Leonards-on-Sea
Just a short walk or quick bus ride from the Old Town, St Leonards-on-Sea has a slightly slower, more creative feel. It’s full of indie shops, galleries and cafés, and it’s the perfect place to spend a relaxed afternoon once you’ve explored Hastings old town and hillside.
Norman Road & Kings Road
Start around Norman Road, where you’ll find great vintage stores, design studios and galleries, before looping up to King’s Road for more independent shops and mid-century furniture finds. It’s a lovely area to browse slowly.
Goat Ledge and the Seafront
Make your way back down to the seafront and stop at Goat Ledge for coffee, a breakfast bap or something light to eat. It’s right by the beach with plenty of outdoor seating and a friendly, laid-back vibe. On a sunny day, it’s one of the nicest spots to sit and watch the waves.
11. Check Out Source Park (Even If You’re Not Skating)
Hidden just below the seafront promenade, Source Park is the world’s largest underground skatepark and it’s surprisingly fun to visit even if you’re not skating. You can wander through, watch the skaters flying around the ramps, and then grab food or a drink from The Courtyard just next door. It has that creative, slightly scruffy energy Hastings does best, and it’s a great rainy-day option too.
12. Take a Seafront Stroll via Bottle Alley
The walk between Hastings and St Leonards is one of the nicest things to do on a sunny day. Follow the promenade west and you’ll pass Bottle Alley, a long, tunnel-like walkway lined with thousands of pieces of coloured sea glass. It’s a little retro and a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of the charm. Keep going for sea views, salty air and an easy, relaxed stroll.
13. Try the Sauna on Hastings Pier
For something a bit different, book a session at the sauna on Hastings Pier. You sit in the heat looking out over the sea, then step straight outside to cool down with the sea breeze or a dip if you’re feeling brave. It’s especially lovely at sunset, and a really memorable way to end the day.
14. Join a Local Festival (If You Can!)
Hastings really comes alive during its festivals – they’re eccentric, energetic and full of local spirit. If your trip lines up with one, go. They’re some of the best ways to experience the town at its most fun and community-focused.
Jack in the Green
Held over the May Bank Holiday, Jack in the Green is a big, joyful celebration of spring. Think Morris dancers, live music, maypole ribbons and a huge parade through the Old Town. It’s wonderful in the best possible way, and the whole town gets involved.
Hastings Bonfire Night
Later in the year, Hastings Bonfire Night takes things up a notch, with torch-lit processions, drummers, costumes and a huge bonfire on the beach. It’s loud, smoky, slightly chaotic and totally unforgettable. If you’re visiting in autumn, it’s a must.
FAQs About Things to Do in Hastings
When is the Best Time to Visit Hastings?
Hastings is lovely year-round, but it really shines in late spring and summer when the days are longer and you can make the most of the beaches, cliff walks and pub gardens. If you want to experience one of the local festivals (like Jack in the Green or Bonfire Night), aim for May or October. Winter can be a bit windswept, but it has its own cosy charm.
How do I Get to Hastings from London?
The easiest way to get to Hastings from London is by train. Direct trains run from London Bridge, Charing Cross and Victoria, taking around 1 hour 30–1 hour 45 depending on the route. If you’re already in East London, the St Pancras → Ashford → Hastings route can actually be quicker. The best place to book train tickets is on Trainline.
Where Should I Stay in Hastings?
For first-timers, I recommend staying either in the Old Town or St Leonards as both have great food, pubs and easy access to the beach. If you’re on a budget, look for Airbnb rooms and small guesthouses. There are plenty of characterful places tucked into the hills behind the Old Town.
- The White Rock Hotel is a brilliant seafront option with a relaxed atmosphere and sea-view terrace (great value, dog-friendly).
- The Old Rectory in the Old Town is a boutique, cosy and a bit more special – perfect for a weekend away.
Is Hastings Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, especially if you like places with character. Hastings has a slightly scruffy, creative, seaside charm that feels real and lived-in. There’s great food, a strong arts scene, dramatic coastline, vintage shopping and plenty of things to do whether you’re here for a day trip or a full weekend.
Round Up: The 14 Best Things to Do in Hastings in 2025
The longer I’ve lived away from Hastings, the more I appreciate just how unique it is. There’s nowhere else with the same mix of old fishing heritage, independent shops, cliff walks, cosy pubs and slightly scruffy seaside charm – in the best possible way.
Whether you’re here for a day trip from London or settling in for a full weekend, I hope this guide helps you experience Hastings the way the locals do! If you need help planning your trip or want more personalised recommendations (restaurants, walks, places to stay, etc.), feel free to ask! I’m always happy to share more local tips.
