In a list of the 16 best seaside towns to visit in the UK published by Time Out, Hastings and St Leonards were ranked as the second-best seaside destination, behind Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire.
With both towns within a short walk or train ride of each other, these seaside neighbours were described as having “all the makings of a dreamy day out”.
Visitors are able to reach it in around 90 minutes by train from London Charing Cross or London Bridge.
Among some of the highlights mentioned by Time Out were Hastings Contemporary in the Old Town and the bustling King’s Road in St Leonards, with its mix of art galleries, antique shops and independent stores including Shop, Stereo Retro and Sunless.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the area’s creative scene, while foodie spots like the Sleeper Store, Bayte, Sonny’s of Rock a Nore and Selkie Seafood Bar were also highlighted. Fika@44 was recommended for coffee, along with Heist Market for cocktails and natural wines.
Cultural events include Jack in the Green and Pirate Day.
Hastings’ history stretches back centuries and is most famously tied to the Battle of Hastings in 1066 between William the Conqueror and King Harold.
Much of the town as it exists today developed during the Victorian era, when it became a seaside resort for Londoners looking to escape the capital’s pollution.
Like many Sussex towns, Hastings also has a colourful smuggling past, something visitors can explore at Smugglers Adventure in St Clement’s Caves.
Historic landmarks are plentiful, including Hastings Castle, a Norman fortress built shortly after 1066, and All Saints’ Church, which dates back to the 12th century.
Hastings Pier is another key attraction. Originally destroyed by fire in 1872, it was later rebuilt and now features traditional amusements and beach huts overlooking the sea.
The town is also home to the East Hill Cliff Railway, a funicular dating back to 1902, connecting the seafront with East Hill.
Shoppers can explore Hastings Old Town’s mix of antique stores, galleries and independent shops along streets such as George Street, All Saints’ Street and Rock-a-Nore Road.
Just along the coast, St Leonards offers a slightly quieter atmosphere. Developed in 1828 by James Burton as a planned Georgian seaside resort, it was designed with wide streets, elegant squares and grand terraces to attract affluent visitors.
King’s Road, described as its “trendy coastal epicentre”, is lined with independent galleries, vintage and antique shops, record stores and homeware boutiques.
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