What to do in Hastings

Activities, attractions and tours

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A coastal town with a beach, pier, and dense buildings.
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An ancient stone archway leading to a ruined castle.

Things to do

Battle Abbey Gatehouse

1066 Battle of Hastings Guided Tour

Rp3.772.198
per adult
1066 Battle of Hastings Guided Tour
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Top places to visit

1. Hastings Castle

Though only fragments of it remain, Hastings Castle is still tremendously atmospheric. Its splendid clifftop setting means it can be seen from most parts of town. Visitors are drawn here for its interesting and tumultuous history and for the incredible views it offers of the cliffs and coastline. Watch a video explaining the significance of the Norman fortress and peruse the evocative ruins.
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2. East Hill Lift

One of the steepest funicular railways in the country, the East Hill Lift carries passengers up a steep and rocky cliff to Hastings Country Park at the top. Ascend the slope in the old-fashioned carriages and marvel at the views out to sea from the top.
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3. Hastings Country Park

Hastings Country Park is spread across 660 acres (270 hectares) along the coast and encompasses a patchwork of terrain including ancient woodland, heathlands, grassland and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Walk coastal trails near the cliff edge and savor the incredible views. Look for rare birds flying overhead and insects crawling underfoot.
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A coastal town with a pier extending into the sea, surrounded by lush greenery and residential buildings.

4. Smugglers Adventure

Smugglers Adventure is a popular interactive attraction that reveals tales from the smuggling trade’s heyday, when swashbuckling gangs transported contraband goods into Britain through the isolated bays of the Sussex coast. Explore atmospheric underground caves and discover more about the shady goings-on that took place here in the 17th and 18th centuries.
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5. Alexandra Park

A well-kept and spacious recreational space, Alexander Park provides ample greenery as it runs through Hastings and St Leonards. The park has enough amenities to enthrall and entertain visitors for an entire day. Walk through immaculate formal gardens and past ancient trees, spot rare birds in the nature reserve, go boating on the lake and let the kids enjoy the play area.
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What to do in Hastings

Stay near popular Hastings attractions

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Hastings Castle

7.8/10 (78 reviews)
Britain's first Norman castle, Hastings Castle stands as a testament to William the Conqueror's 1067 victory. Explore ancient ruins while enjoying panoramic views of the English Channel from its hilltop position.
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Where to stay in Hastings

Find the best Hastings areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Hastings
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Old Town Hastings

Unique features of Old Town Hastings include the seaside views and historical sites. Make a stop by East Hill Lift or Hastings Beach while you're exploring the area.

Day trip destinations from Hastings

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Frequently asked questions

Is Hastings worth visiting?
Renowned for its bars and pubs and fishing, finding awesome things to do in Hastings is a cinch. Make sure to add Winchelsea Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Hastings?
Begin your day with a visit to Winchelsea Beach and Bexhill Beach. Then, check out different areas of Hastings for a quick bite and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Hastings?
Winchelsea Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Hastings and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Hastings?
Three days will be plenty of time to tick off the leading city highlights, such as Bexhill Beach, Carr Taylor Vineyard and Blue Reef Aquarium. The average stay in Hastings is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Eastbourne isn't far away.
Is Hastings a walkable city?
With leading attractions like Blue Reef Aquarium nearby, Hastings is every bit a place to see on foot. Up for visiting some cool neighbourhoods a walkable distance from the city centre? Old Town Hastings is only 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Hastings with kids?
If you're searching for activities and sights for all the family, have a look at these terrific ideas for what to do in Hastings with kids.
What to do in Hastings for adults?
Carr Taylor Vineyard and Fishermen's Museum are just a couple of the things to do in Hastings. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Hastings?
One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Hastings is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching for your wallet. Bexhill Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.