St Clement's Church Hastings
Historic St. Clement's Church in Hastings Old Town, marked by a cannonball and rich community life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Experience unique traditions
St Clement's Church Hastings
Best Time
Experience unique traditions
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic St. Clement's Church in Hastings Old Town, marked by a cannonball and rich community life.
"A historic gem with a cannonball scar and beautiful interior, a true community hub."
🎯 Check Opening Times
Church hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment.
🎶 Attend a Local Event
Concerts and festivals offer a lively experience inside this historic venue.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cannonball Scar
Tower exterior
A visible cannonball embedded in the tower, a relic from French attacks in the 1300s.
Stained Glass & Masonry
Interior
Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carved masonry within the church.
Community Hub
Various events
Experience the church's role in local life, from music concerts to student bible studies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Eventful Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Opening Times
Church hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment.
🎶 Attend a Local Event
Concerts and festivals offer a lively experience inside this historic venue.
☕ Enjoy the Outdoor Bench
A sunny bench outside is perfect for a drink and a moment of reflection.
📸 Capture the Details
Look for the embedded cannonball and beautiful stained glass windows.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Opening Times
Church hours can vary; confirm before visiting to avoid disappointment.
🎶 Attend a Local Event
Concerts and festivals offer a lively experience inside this historic venue.
☕ Enjoy the Outdoor Bench
A sunny bench outside is perfect for a drink and a moment of reflection.
📸 Capture the Details
Look for the embedded cannonball and beautiful stained glass windows.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Clement's Church is a historic gem in Hastings Old Town, appreciated for its cannonball scar and beautiful interior details like stained glass. Visitors enjoy its role as a community hub for events and its welcoming atmosphere, though its opening hours can be unpredictable, sometimes leading to disappointment for those hoping to explore inside.
"Historic Church in Hastings old town, attacked by the French in the 1300s, when Hastings was sacked and burnt.
If you look up at the tower you will see one real cannon ball, and a stone one on other side to provide balance.
This could be a present from the Dutch Navy.
Dante Rossetti and Elizabeth Siddall were married in the church as were my gran and grandad, and my mum and dad
I was at the Hastings Grammar School, and twice a year 600 plus boys would walk from the school in Nelson Road, for Commemoration Service, and for Christmas Carols"
Mick Pelling
"Great place coffee if needed and cake !! Very nice ladys"
Mick Richards
"We had luck to get into the church. Thank you so much for the experience."
Pál Frankó
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Clement's Church is located in Hastings Old Town, often mentioned alongside George Street and All Saints Street. It's accessible by foot within the charming old town area.
Parking in Hastings Old Town can be challenging. Consider using local car parks or public transport to reach the vicinity of the church.
Hastings train station is a walk from the Old Town. It's a pleasant stroll, but allow ample time if you're walking from the station to St. Clement's Church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St. Clement's Church is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Special events like concerts may require tickets.
Opening hours can be inconsistent. It's best to check local listings or contact the church directly, as it's sometimes found to be shut.
While the exterior is easily viewed, access to the interior might be limited at times. Some reviews mention luck being involved in getting inside.
Specific historical tours aren't widely advertised, but the church's history is evident in its architecture and embedded cannonball.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire beautiful stained glass windows and carved masonry. The church also holds historical significance as a wedding venue for notable figures.
The cannonball on the tower is a reminder of the French attacks on Hastings in the 1300s, a testament to the church's long history.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always respectful to check for any specific church policies or during services.
Yes, St. Clement's hosts various events, including concerts, Morris dancing during festivals, and student bible studies.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the church itself may not serve food, there are often mentions of coffee and cake being available, particularly during events or from nearby cafes.
Hastings Old Town, where St. Clement's is located, offers numerous cafes and restaurants. You can find a variety of dining options nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the church from streets like Hill Street for a great view, or focus on the details like the cannonball and interior architecture.
The bells are a notable feature, and their sound is often mentioned. Capturing them, especially during events, can make for interesting content.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the church itself might be a quiet visit, the surrounding Old Town offers a more lively atmosphere. Consider timing your visit with local events like the Jack in the Green festival, which often features Morris dancers and a festive spirit that children might enjoy.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the architectural details, including the stained glass windows and carved masonry, which offer insights into the craftsmanship of different eras.
🎶 Music & Arts Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for local events, especially those tied to festivals like Jack in the Green, which often feature musical performances and traditional dancing.
+1 The church's bells also add to its auditory charm, with their sound being a notable feature. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond its defensive past, St. Clement's has also been a venue for significant life events. It's noted as the place where Dante Rossetti and Elizabeth Siddall were married, as well as many local families over the generations.
The church's architecture itself is noteworthy, with mentions of beautiful stained glass windows and carved masonry that draw visitors.
Community and Events
+3The church also hosts a variety of other events, from musical concerts that showcase its acoustics and beautiful interior,
Visitors have noted the presence of friendly ladies offering coffee and cake, adding a welcoming touch to the experience.
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