Deva, Romania: The Home From Home
November 2, 2023
Hampshire, England: A Date With History and The Girls
November 5, 2023Hastings is a seaside town and borough in East Sussex on the south coast of England, 53 mi (85 km) south east of London.
A Family Favourite
Long considered a family favourite, Hastings is a place I return to time and again. No matter the weather, there is always something to see or do. Admittedly, a lot closes in the colder periods, though there are still ample shops, bars, and restaurants along with various museums that stay open.
History
I always walk past the medieval All Saints Church because I park up a side road with free parking. Particularly during summer, it can prove difficult to park on the sea front unless you arrive early.
All Saints Street has a wealth of historical buildings to admire as you stroll down, be sure to pay attention.
I usually stop at The Lord Nelson Public House after walking down All Saints Street for a pint after this walk, it’s always longer than I remember.
If, however, you’re looking for the oldest pub in Hastings, it’s said to be The Stag Inn.
Norman ruins of Hastings Castle take the historical tour a little further back.
Things to do
Hastings Contemporary contains varied artworks and has exhibits on throughout the year.
Hastings Aquarium great way to educate on what is out in the big blue sea. It also provides an alternative if the weather isn’t on your side.
The Funiculars are quite interesting in themselves. West Hill Victorian Lift leads to a great view point, while the East Hill Lift leads to Hastings Country Park.
There’s a Miniature Railway that runs along the seafront during summer, you often see excited kids waving as they pass.
Oh and the Amusement Arcades. You cannot NOT visit the arcades, the 2p machines bring out the child in all. I’m always excited to win some keyrings. I love the motorbike racing and the shoot-em-ups that are a little more immersive.
Miniature Golf always offers a healthy bit of competition. I tend to travel here alone so don’t get to play as often as I’d like.
Hastings Pier is typically styled and offers some restaurants and shops though they tend to be more expensive than the rest of the area.
Bottle Alley is a quirky instalment from 1933, located a little further on from the pier. It has become a popular location for filming and photo shoots.
Beaches
Hastings is mostly known for its beaches, so I thought I’d give them a mention. Some people swim here, I have in the past. Cleanliness varies, it would be wise to check when you choose to visit. I last swam in April, and it was freezing!
Rock-A-Nore beach – be wary of falling cliffs. But, if you are lucky, you may find fossils in this area. Usually the quietest area, this shingle section is one of my favourite spots. Back in April, it was just my backpack and I!
The Stade Beach is the landing area for the boats, with plenty moored for a unique close up view of various fishing boats. This is a working site so be aware of the shifting dangers as boats come in and equipment moves. Watch out for the ropes laying around everywhere too.
Hastings Beach is a calmer affair with no working boats docking beside you so you can relax.
Food
Visiting Hastings is always an excuse for me to treat myself. Fish and chips, fresh donuts, and ice cream are savoured whatever the weather. I couldn’t say I have a favourite, I just head for the nearest one when the fancy takes me.
Without fail, I will buy a bar of fudge to take home too! There are a few sweetshops here offering old-fashioned sweets.
Conclusion
Give Hastings a visit, even if the weather turns or you don’t enjoy sitting on a beach all day. Next time I visit, I will do a run down on some of the other quirky shops and installations.
A childhood favourite, this will forever hold fond memories.
