Looking for a seaside escape that offers more than just fish and chips on the pier? Welcome to Hastings, England—a vibrant coastal town where history meets quirk, and the sea breeze is as refreshing as the adventure that awaits!
Whether you're wandering through the charming, narrow streets of the Old Town, exploring ancient ruins, or hiking the breathtaking cliffs of the Hastings Nature Reserve, this two-day itinerary will give you the perfect blend of relaxation, exploration, and a dash of unexpected excitement.
Get ready for a unique getaway packed with local pubs, stunning views, and a taste of seaside life like you've never experienced before!
Day 1: History, Culture, and the Seaside
Morning: Explore the Old Town
Breakfast in the Old Town: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the quaint cafés in Hastings Old Town. The streets are lined with charming timber-framed houses and antique shops.
Stroll Through George Street: Take a leisurely walk down George Street, filled with unique shops, galleries, and local boutiques. You’ll find plenty of places to stop for coffee or a light snack.
Late Morning: Hastings Castle and 1066 Story
Visit Hastings Castle: Perched on the West Hill, Hastings Castle offers stunning coastline views and a fascinating dive into England’s Norman history. Explore the ruins and learn about the significance of the Battle of Hastings in 1066 through the onsite exhibits.
Lunch: Traditional Fish and Chips
Seafront Fish and Chips: No visit to the seaside is complete without fish and chips! Grab a portion from one of the seafront vendors and enjoy it while sitting on the beach or the benches along the promenade.
Afternoon: Hastings Pier and Seafront
Hastings Pier: Take a stroll on the beautifully restored Hastings Pier. It’s a great spot for photos and to take in the fresh sea air. Depending on the time of year, you might catch a local event or market.
Visit the Jerwood Gallery: For art lovers, the nearby Jerwood Gallery (now Hastings Contemporary) showcases modern and contemporary British art. The architecture of the building itself is a highlight.
Evening: Seafood Dinner and Sunset
Dinner at The Stade: Head back to The Stade area in the Old Town for a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants. The area is known for its fresh catches and relaxed atmosphere.
Sunset at Rock-a-Nore Beach: End your day watching the sunset from Rock-a-Nore Beach, just a short walk from The Stade. The beach offers a dramatic backdrop of cliffs and sea.
Day 2: Nature, Views, and Unique Experiences
Morning: Country Park and Coastal Walk
Hastings Country Park: Start your second day with a visit to Hastings Country Park, a beautiful nature reserve with dramatic cliffs, woodlands, and meadows. There are several walking trails offering stunning views of the English Channel. The Firehills area provides some of the best vantage points.
Late Morning: Smugglers Adventure
Explore Smugglers Adventure: Dive into the intriguing history of smuggling in the area with a visit to the Smugglers Adventure in St. Clements Caves. This family-friendly attraction brings the past to life with interactive exhibits and atmospheric caverns.
Lunch: Relaxed Café Lunch
Lunch at a Local Café: Return to the town center for a relaxed lunch at one of the local cafés, possibly in the trendy America Ground area, known for its independent eateries and shops.
Afternoon: Visit the Fishermen’s Museum and Net Shops
Fishermen’s Museum: Learn about Hastings’ maritime heritage at the Fishermen’s Museum, located in a converted church near The Stade.
Explore the Net Shops: These unique tall, narrow wooden sheds are iconic to Hastings and were historically used by fishermen to store their nets. It’s a great spot for photography and a peek into the town’s fishing traditions.
Evening: Dinner and Live Music
Dinner at a Local Pub: Enjoy dinner at one of Hastings’ traditional pubs. Many offer hearty British fare and a wide selection of local ales.
Live Music at a Seafront Venue: End your trip with live music. Hastings has a vibrant music scene, especially around the seafront and Old Town. Check out what’s on at one of the local venues, or simply enjoy the atmosphere with a drink in hand.
This two-day itinerary captures the essence of Hastings, blending its rich history, cultural highlights, and stunning natural landscapes for a memorable seaside escape.
*All photos were taken by Ina/WithinLondon, unless stated otherwise :)
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