Hastings Old Town
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Hastings Old Town

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming coastal gem with winding streets, historic architecture, and stunning sea views. Explore independent shops and enjoy fresh seafood.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring/Summer Mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Hastings Old Town

Hastings Old Town

Best Time

Spring/Summer Mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming coastal gem with winding streets, historic architecture, and stunning sea views. Explore independent shops and enjoy fresh seafood.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"I think I just found the most beautiful coastal town in England!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cobbled streets and inclines are best navigated with good walking shoes.

📸 Capture the Charm

Bring your camera for picturesque streets, coastal views, and unique shop fronts.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wander the Historic Streets

Wander the Historic Streets

George Street, High Street, All Saints Street

Explore storybook streets filled with independent shops, vintage finds, and Tudor-style buildings.

TikTokInstagram+1
East Hill Cliff Railway

East Hill Cliff Railway

East Hill

Ride the UK's steepest funicular for breathtaking panoramic views of the coast and countryside.

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The Stade & Fishing Heritage

The Stade & Fishing Heritage

The Stade

Experience the traditional fishing quarter with its colourful boats and fresh seafood stalls.

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Hastings Castle Ruins

Hastings Castle Ruins

West Hill

Discover the remnants of a Norman castle offering historical insights and stunning sea vistas.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Charm: Plan Your Hastings Old Town Visit

Hastings Old Town offers a unique blend of history and coastal charm. Expect winding streets and independent shops. Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially for popular B&Bs in Hastings Old Town, as they fill up quickly. TikTokInstagram

Getting Around Hastings Old Town

Parking can be challenging in the narrow streets of Hastings Old Town. Many visitors opt for the train, which is a convenient 1.5-hour journey from London. TikTokInstagram Once there, walking is the best way to explore the historic area. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring/Summer Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn Evenings
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I think I just found the most beautiful coastal town in England 😍🌊 A coastal day trip to Hastings 🎣⛅🍦 — full of charm, dramatic views, storybook streets, and fresh seafood heaven. 🚞 1.5 hour train from London Bridge or Charing Cross 💰 Train ticket was about £24 open return Here’s how @lifechangediy and I spent the day: 🏘️ @hastingsoldtown – wandered through cobbled lanes, antique shops, and the cu...
@heyreiko_
3.5K likes • 180.5K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cobbled streets and inclines are best navigated with good walking shoes. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Charm

Bring your camera for picturesque streets, coastal views, and unique shop fronts. Instagram+1

夏天來英國不能錯過的兩個好逛又好拍的小鎮😍 Hastings 有超多古董店和漂亮海景,也有海斯廷戰役的歷史足跡;Rye 是個丘陵間的藝術小鎮,愛逛藝廊選品店絕對不能錯過🫶 影片裡有出現的地點如下: 📍Hastings, Old Town(很多小店可逛) 📍Hastings, West Hill(East Hill 更高更遠,West Hill 較矮所以很適合拍海景,有空推薦兩邊都去🙌) 📍Rye, Soap and Salvation(絕美家居小店) 📍Rye, Mermaid Street(最漂亮的一條小街) 📍Rye, Cobble Tea Room(有小花園的茶屋,司康好吃🫖) 之後會再用貼文分享我在兩個小鎮逛到的可愛小店全集✨ 我覺得英國的美真的在於鄉村🥺 所以七月剛上市的這本書裡也收錄了我很喜歡的總共11 條倫敦近郊一日遊的路線,希望讓不管是來訪英國的人、還是住在倫敦為了...
london.travelcases
675 likes • 25K views
The prettiness of Hastings Old Town 🍁 Steeped in history, its streets and ancient buildings tell the story of a town shaped by the sea, from its fishing heritage to its iconic landmarks. #hastings #southeast #sussex #eastsussex #stays #getsway #weekendvibes #weekendgetaway #daytrip #daytrips
sussexstories
220 likes • 6K views

🍽️ Savor Local Seafood

Enjoy fresh catches from The Stade, a must-try for seafood lovers. TikTok

🕰️ Explore Independent Shops

Discover vintage treasures and unique finds in the many boutiques. Instagram

POV: You just discovered one of the UK’s most underrated coastal towns 📸🇬🇧 From cobbled lanes to seaside sunsets. 💫 Old Town charm + raw coastal beauty = unmatched views for every photographer🌊✨ ⠀ 📍Save this for your next UK Trip 🏰 1. Hastings Castle Ruins 🌊 2. West Hill Cliff Railway 🎨 3. Hastings Old Town (George Street) 🚶‍♂️ 4. East Hill & The Stade 🎣 5. Rock-a-Nore fishing huts 📷 6. The Net...
carlberwin
76 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cobbled streets and inclines are best navigated with good walking shoes. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Charm

Bring your camera for picturesque streets, coastal views, and unique shop fronts. Instagram+1

🍽️ Savor Local Seafood

Enjoy fresh catches from The Stade, a must-try for seafood lovers. TikTok

🕰️ Explore Independent Shops

Discover vintage treasures and unique finds in the many boutiques. Instagram

🚆 Consider Train Travel

It's an easy 1.5-hour train ride from London, avoiding parking hassles. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hastings Old Town for its unique charm, historic architecture, and vibrant independent shops. The stunning coastal views from the East Hill Cliff Railway are a major highlight, alongside the authentic fishing heritage at The Stade. Some find parking challenging, and the weather can be unpredictable, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.

What People Like

Historic charm and architecture
Independent shops and vintage finds
Stunning coastal views

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Can be crowded on weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most convenient way is by train from London Bridge or Charing Cross stations, taking approximately 1.5 hours. TikTokInstagram Driving is an option, but parking in the Old Town can be difficult and expensive. Instagram

Yes, Hastings Old Town is very walkable. Its charm lies in exploring its narrow, cobbled streets on foot. Instagram+1

Walking is ideal for exploring the Old Town's nooks and crannies. For panoramic views, the East Hill Cliff Railway is a must-use. Instagram

Parking is limited and can be challenging within the Old Town itself. Several public car parks are available nearby, but walking from the train station is often recommended. Instagram

Absolutely! Hastings Old Town is a popular and feasible day trip from London, easily accessible by train in about 1.5 hours. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no entry fees to wander through Hastings Old Town itself. However, attractions like the East Hill Cliff Railway have separate ticket prices. Instagram

Hastings Old Town is always accessible, as it's a public area. Individual shops and attractions will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon. Instagram

Yes, the East Hill Cliff Railway operates on a ticket system. It's advisable to check their official website for current pricing and operating times. Instagram

Yes, there are several charming B&Bs and guesthouses in Hastings Old Town, such as 'The Old Rectory Hastings' and 'Old Town Guest House Hastings'. Booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

Wandering the streets, enjoying the sea views from the promenade, and exploring the Stade are all free activities. The Hastings Castle ruins also offer a glimpse into history without a fee to access the grounds. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

George Street, All Saints Street, and the views from the East Hill Cliff Railway offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The Stade with its fishing boats is also very photogenic. Instagram+2

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, provides beautiful light for capturing the town's charm. Instagram+1 Weekday mornings can also offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.

Don't miss the unique architecture of the Old Town streets, the dramatic coastal views from the cliffs, and the colourful fishing boats on The Stade. Instagram+1

A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for street scenes and wider views. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the dramatic coastal landscapes. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to local regulations and may require permits, especially in populated areas or near the coast. It's best to check with local authorities before flying. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Stade is the heart of Hastings' fishing heritage, offering numerous stalls and restaurants serving fresh catches. TikTok Many visitors rave about the quality and freshness. TikTok

Several pubs and restaurants in Hastings Old Town offer Sunday roasts. It's recommended to check local listings or ask for recommendations upon arrival for the best 'Sunday Roast Hastings Old Town' experience. Reddit

Popular spots include traditional pubs and eateries serving local fare. For a specific recommendation, 'The Jenny Lind Inn Hastings Old Town' is a historic pub. Reddit

Yes, there are charming tea rooms offering 'Afternoon Tea Hastings Old Town'. Look for independent cafes and bakeries for a delightful experience. Instagram

Yes, beyond the seafood stalls, you can find more affordable options like fish and chips, pasties, and cafes offering sandwiches and light bites. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hastings Old Town offers a fun and engaging experience for families. The East Hill Cliff Railway is a definite hit with children, providing exciting views and a unique ride. Instagram Exploring the quirky shops and the beach at The Stade can also be a great way to spend an afternoon. Pack snacks and be prepared for lots of walking, as the cobbled streets can be uneven. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Explorers

Hastings Old Town is a fantastic destination for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in history and charm. The compact nature of the Old Town makes it easy to explore at your own pace. Instagram Discover hidden alleyways, browse unique shops, and enjoy the coastal scenery. The East Hill Cliff Railway offers a solo adventure with rewarding views. Instagram Don't hesitate to strike up conversations with locals or shopkeepers for insider tips. Instagram

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Hastings Old Town is a dream. The historic streets with their Tudor architecture, colourful facades, and narrow passages provide endless compositional opportunities. Instagram+1 The East Hill Cliff Railway and the views from the top offer dramatic coastal panoramas, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. Instagram The Stade with its fishing boats adds a touch of maritime character to your portfolio. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Historic Streets of Hastings Old Town

Hastings Old Town is a labyrinth of charming, narrow streets that transport you back in time. George Street and High Street are bustling with independent shops, vintage boutiques, and art galleries, offering a unique shopping experience. Instagram Don't miss All Saints Street, often cited as one of the most picturesque streets, with its colourful cottages and historic architecture. Instagram The area is steeped in history, from its smuggling past to its role in maritime life, and simply wandering and soaking in the atmosphere is a highlight. Instagram

The East Hill Cliff Railway: Views and Adventure

For unparalleled views of the coastline, a ride on the East Hill Cliff Railway is essential. This historic funicular, built in 1902, is one of the UK's steepest and offers a thrilling ascent from the Old Town to Hastings Country Park. Instagram The journey itself is cinematic, and at the top, you're rewarded with breathtaking panoramic vistas of the English Channel and the surrounding landscape. Instagram It's a perfect spot for photography, especially during golden hour, and offers access to walking trails within the country park. Instagram+1

Hastings' Fishing Heritage and The Stade

The Stade is the heart of Hastings' traditional fishing industry, where you can still see colourful fishing boats pulled up on the shingle beach. Instagram This area offers a genuine glimpse into the town's maritime past and present. You can purchase incredibly fresh seafood directly from the fishermen's huts, making for a delicious and authentic culinary experience. TikTok It's a vibrant and working part of the town, providing a stark contrast to the quaintness of the Old Town streets. Instagram