Exploring Hastings, East Sussex

This historic coastal town is definitely worth a visit!

Click here to get ideas and event news on our
facebook!
page

If you are looking for an historic location to while away the time, Hastings could be the perfect spot. The town famously gives its name to the Battle of Hastings, which took place nearby. With one of the richest histories of any town in the UK, coupled with being situated in a beautiful coastal spot, it is a great location to head to with the family for a day out, or even a longer stay.

You might be surprised at just how much there is to do in this seemingly sleepy town. As we have seen, it is a great place for the history-lover, and this makes it equally suitable for families who want to give their children something of an educational trip. There are a huge range of varied museums, covering many different areas of interest, and you would be hard pushed to visit them all in a single day. Whether you have a particular interest in maritime history, or the military history of the setting, or just a more general fascination, there will certainly be something for you to see with the kids.

But it’s not just the museums which attract families to Hastings every year. As one might expect from such a town, there are also many sights and landmarks to go and see, and many of them are suitable for people of all ages, meaning that you won’t need to worry about your children becoming bored or restless. For a start, there is the old town itself, the historic centre of Hastings complete with resplendent old buildings and countless monuments to times past. Rarely can you see such a rich concentration of history as in the old town of Hastings. This area is also packed full of shops and restaurants, so you are bound to find a little something for everyone here.

No trip to Hastings would be complete without at least a quick visit to the pier; there are some simply stunning views from the deck and a scaled-down minimalistic approach to the area compared with many other seaside towns. If you go around Christmas time, you will have a chance to see the pier come to life, when the Christmas market is set up complete with lights and decorations. There is also an open air cinema, so you can take your children to watch a film if they become tired from all the walking.

One of the most popular family attractions has to be the miniature railway, a classic way to spend an easy afternoon with all the family. You can expect to sit upon a lifesize model train which will take you directly through the heart of the fisherman village, and you’ll find that this is a particularly enjoyable afternoon for any young children you may have with you. But don’t go thinking that this is just for kids: adults too are known to have a great time on the railway.

If you are just in the mood to relax and enjoy the weather, then why not visit one of the many gorgeous parks that Hastings has to offer? A particularly popular option is Alexandra Park, known for its breathtaking waterfall feature and stunning pond area. There is even a peace garden, so you can really get a chance to chill out, and if you’re up for a spot of tennis you can hire out one of the courts there. Hastings Country Park is a better choice if you and your family enjoy walking together, with a number of (sometimes challenging) pathways for you to explore the beautiful nature there. Otherwise, it is the ideal setting for a summer’s picnic if you are just in the mood to unwind and relax.

Of course, it’s a coastal town, so it’s likely you’ll want to go to the beach. Pett Level beach is a calm and peaceful setting, easy to get to and a breeze to find appropriate parking. Although it is well-known, it is rare for the beach to be packed with people, so you can be sure of an enjoyable day by the beach with few interruptions or distractions.

There is one thing you mustn’t overlook if you do visit Hastings, of course: the castle. Incredible ruins which provide any family with a fascinating and educational day out, this has to be a top spot in Hastings at any time of year. As you can see, Hastings just might be the perfect location for a fun and enjoyable family day out. Consider this beautiful town next time you are planning a family excursion on the South coast.