Hastings, United Kingdom skyline: the 15 most iconic buildings and best views in Hastings

The Hastings Castle is just ruins of what once would have been a formidable part of the defence of Hastings Town. I came here after taking the cable car up to the nearby view point and walking the short footpath down to the castle entrance. The ruins cover quite a large area on this hilltop and it takes some imagination to see the castle building as it was. There is also a small dungeon on the site which one can enter.

A lovely place, quite small, with only a few ruins but still worth a visit. The castle was extremely interesting with information from a few boards dotted around. The dungeon was small but fun to visit. Sadly I think some may be using the ruins as a toilet as there was a distinct smell of wee.

An interesting site containing the ruins of the Norman Hastings castle, the site offers amazing views of Hastings itself. It sham the small cinema covering the history of the battle of Hastings has been shuttered. This is included on the hastings explorer ticket which great saving for a day out. This castle is way up on a bluff overlooking the city. Built centuries ago in a strategic spot where it could protect the area from invasions from the sea. They were worried about that after 1066. It is very noticeable from the downtown area.

A nice little castle on top of the hill. Recommend using the hill lift if coming from the seafront. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend paying for this on it own. As part of the 3 attraction tickets, it's worth doing. Apart from the great views, not much of the ruin left, very small dungeons.

It's a nice ruin of a castle, however I wouldn't pay how much there, charging maybe add a pound or so on after visiting Smugglers Run or the Aquarium. There isn't much there iv seen more of a ruined castle in South Devon then I have for price you pay to see this.

I wasn't overly impressed with Hastings Castle, it wasn't the best ruin I've been to, and definitely had the feel of neglect about it, with the over grown trees and bush, and dilapidated sealed off building in the middle.

One of the historical attractions in Hastings. The ticket was 7.9 £. You can use a lift to get there, for 5£ as I can remember. Worth seeing if you like the history of this beautifull country ❤️

We spent a few hours here whilst on a break in Hastings. There is free parking available although we walked up the hill from the seafront which was only a short walk. The staff were very friendly and helpful and entrance was free. Whilst at the museum, we visited the History of Hastings exhibit, the Agatha Christie exhibit and the permanent collections. What an absolute pleasure it was to wander around and to see such a varied and interesting selection of items. There was lots of written information, laid out in a way that made it interesting and enjoyable to read. Everything flowed really well and we felt able to take our time and really enjoy the experience. Although we didn't have any children with us, it was clear that the museum have really thought about how to engage children in the experience, providing lots of interactive elements, play areas and a huge range of books. I would definitely recommend a visit to anyone visiting Hastings and we would return again if passing, especially for new exhibits.

Some really lovely exhibits The Agatha Christie one was well laid out, would have been nice to see some actual props from shows in amongst the different displays The Durbar Hall was something else A unique feature for sure We didn't expect to see it, so was a great surprise

Great amount of items from every period in history on display. Loved the Grey Owl story with a mock up of his log cabin and many personal items of his to see. Some stairs but there are lifts to all levels. Great art exhibition also. Worth a visit

Went to see the Durbar Hall, which is far more impressive and intricate in person than in the photos. The wooden model of the Sahranpur Jami Masid is also lovely. A must visit for anyone interested in the history of Hastings and for lovers of early 20th century Indian art.

What a lovely and interesting museum. Much better than I expected and it’s a shame I have left it this long. It could do with an update in places and clearer descriptions of the many interesting exhibits but overall very good.

Now this is a hidden gem! We are informed of its presence by our host who recommended that we take a look, and we were happy we did. It is a very small museum, but quite nice and worth the trip if you are in town. Nice place.

The design of this museum is great. Lots of space. Child friendly. Wonderfully interesting contents. Great for adults too. My only criticism would be that the notes next to the exhibits is too small. Which was frustrating for me. Maybe though there is a guide. I will definitely revisit. Photos taken by my 4 1/2 year old grand daughter. Thankyou Hastings Musuem.

Free entry to this wonderful museum which features artifacts collected from the beaches around Hastings and the UK of the various vessels which have sunk over the years including a great display of the ship the Amsterdam. Highly recommended

Free museum with some lovely souvenirs. Interesting exhibits about some of the many shipwrecks in the English Channel. Thoroughly recommend popping in.

A lovely and informative museum- and it was free! There was so much to see! This attraction will definitely kill a few hours in your day. There were lots of case full of artifacts found in nearby shipwrecks as well as videos of the archeology in place, I really recommend the video in the theatre room as it was really quite incredible. There is hands on children's activities as well as a colouring station to keep them busy. Finally, don't miss the outside area, featuring historic lifeboats.

Let’s start with the good, great shop with interesting exhibits. Not so good and I know not all care but we found a badly injured pigeon, legs snapped behind its body and infected wounds on its body, We spoke to a man inside who brushed it off and paid absolute no attention to our concerns and then blatantly lied to us. Now I don’t care much about pigeons but I do care about a pigeon that is suffering as I would any animal, after all trying to stop suffering is what separates us from animals and the moment we turn a blind eye we become something we shouldn’t.

Fantastic little museum, considering entry is free. Lots of interesting local history, and welcoming staff. Could do with some investment in preservation of displays, some of the older exhibits looked a bit worn, but well worth a visit.

Brilliant little museum packed with well-labelled artefacts. Free entry and helpful, knowledgeable staff. We really enjoyed our visit.

A lovely museum with very knowledgeable and friendly volunteers. Took just around an hour to go through it but you could easily spend more or less time there, depending on how many bits you read. Disabled friendly but the gift shop at the entrance would be tight in a wheelchair. Definitely work a visit even with younger kids as it’s small enough to not lose their attention. Parking behind was vast, £2.20 for an hour or £4 for two hours. Great to sign the visitors book and see where other visitors where from! Thank you volunteers!

Fun experience. Interesting to see what shapes people will carve out in the soft rock. Some exhibits a bit dated, but all entertaining! Recommend checking the website for deals as you don't have to book a specific day. We went early, which gives you some nice quite time exploring. There was a large group ready to go down by 11.45am.

A really interesting story told interactively through a character from the time. A great fun experience, but some of the games within the event weren't working properly, which could frustrate children.

Really fun here. I find it really fascinating that in the old days, I am pretty sure it was used by an actual smuggler gang.

Spacious and informative with interactive displays and videos. Easy to wander around the caverns. Fascinating retelling of this regions history. Tad pricey even with family saver ticket but can see where costs have gone. (Bizarre to see fully working and spacious toilets in a cave!!!)

If you don't mind a trek up the hill (assuming the lift isn't running) and you're not claustrophobic, this is definitely a good way to pass the time. The caves are really interesting and atmospheric in themselves, and there's also a nice mix of dioramas, displays of items, and some interactive bits. Some of the interactive bits were off, maybe waiting for some off-season maintenance. The gift shop had a section of London souvenirs which I guess is the way of things now, but some local art and crafts would be a nice addition.

Also known as St Clements Caves. Firstly entrance prices not displayed. Overcharged on entrance - young girl despite having visited Spec savers or other opticians are available, just said standard and 2 children. I’m over 70, should I feel pleased that she assumed I was under 64 or cross that she didn’t offer me over 64 price reduction. Note to self better advance preparation required. Customer Service rating 0. Now the caves as an attraction in their current state (October 2025) I’d rate no higher than 2 - so many information points broken and not working. Perhaps giving them the benefit of the doubt visiting in October half term maybe they’re close to shutting for the winter ? Maybe repairs will be carried out over the winter ?? Lighting levels random with frequent numbers of lights not working. We were told ‘Feel free to use your phone’s torch’ was very pleased to have had it, very dark with uneven floors in places. There is a lot of smuggler information presented throughout in various tablos. All in all needs some serious love and attention.

Such a nice experience with the little ones. Didnt know where to park, rang them and they told us the best and closest parking spot where we could get. It didnt take a lot of time to finish the adventure but so worth it.

I recently visited the East Hill Cliff Railway in Hastings, and it was such a great experience! The funicular ride is smooth and quick, and it’s amazing to think it’s been running since 1902. The views from the railway are absolutely stunning you get a fantastic panorama of Hastings Old Town, the beach, and the sea.At the top, there’s easy access to lovely walking trails in Hastings Country Park, which made the trip even better. The staff were really friendly and helpful, which made the visit feel welcoming. The ticket price was very reasonable for such a unique ride. Overall, it was a peaceful and scenic way to explore the area, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Hastings. Whether you want a quick trip up the hill or a starting point for some beautiful countryside walks, the East Hill Cliff Railway is worth checking out!

If we don't use it we will lose it in time. So what it's not that expensive in reality for a fast dash up the cliffs. Lots of walks around the nature park with some great views. Use it or lose it. Consider that.

Well worth £4 for return trip - but only for the views and experience but also knowing that you’re contributing to keeping this historic heritage funicular going. Views of Hastings are spectacular and there are great walks to be had in the nature reserve at the top

£5.5 for return pp, if you’re a family they provide better rate. Staff are super friendly and giving positive vibe which I loved so much! The view from the hill was spectacular, it will be nice to have a picnic as well.

Lovely way to get up the hill for a view across Hastings. To get right to the top past the beacon there are a few steps to be done. Definitely worth having a ride, if only to keep this Victorian antique functioning.

This is a wonderful and genuinely old attraction which we would highly recommend. We enjoyed concessionary fares which made this experience great value for money. A ride upon this funicular railway is truly like stepping back in time. Indeed, I last rode this as a child and I'm now 68! It was great to see the "cars" sensitively maintained. Moreover, the staff were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. A "must do" whilst in Hastings!

Lovely quick cable lift, shame no talk as to how far up you go, when it opened etc, for someone who does not like heights I done it

The view from the pier is lovely. Unfortunately, not much was open, and it was the hottest day of the year as of June 2025. Many of the children's rides have been removed, but you still need to buy tokens for the two that remain. Great location with not a lot going on.

Hastings Pier is known for its rich heritage that dates back to 1872. We visited Hastings with the aim to spend fair amount of time in the pier and enjoy the serene flow of water hitting the coastline. The water is exquisitely clean and blue with dedicated swimming areas that have lifeguards from 10am to 6pm. There are lots of attractions surrounding the Hastings Pier.

A Thursday morning in August was not a good time to visit this historic Pier. It was mostly abandoned and the best part is the view to the Hastings beaches on either side. We had been here in the 1980s when the Pier was much livelier and more impressive. Hastings Pier was built in 1872. It suffered major storm damage in 1990, and was closed to the public for a time before closing completely in 2008. 95% of the pier was destroyed by a fire in 2010. After a major rebuilding project, the pier reopened in April 2016 but has not regained its former glory.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Perfect Spot for Night Fishing — Hastings, UK Spent an amazing night fishing on the beach in Hastings — tent set up, rods in the water, and a sky full of stars. Super peaceful atmosphere, calm sea, and minimal light pollution. It’s a great spot to disconnect from the noise and just enjoy the moment. ✅ Pros: – Great for night fishing and camping – Beautiful view of the coast and city lights in the distance – Quiet and spacious area – Relaxing sea sounds all night ⚠️ Heads-up: it’s a rocky beach, so bring a mat or something soft for your tent. If you’re looking for a calm night by the sea — highly recommended!

I really enjoyed my visit to Hastings Pier. It’s a calm and peaceful spot with little to no noise, which makes it perfect if you're looking for a quiet place to relax or reflect. Unlike the more commercial and busier Eastbourne Pier, Hastings Pier feels more open and laid-back. It’s not as wide or crowded, but that actually worked in my favour because I wanted a quieter experience. There are places on and near the pier to grab something to eat, and the nearby beach is just a few steps away. It wasn’t overcrowded when I visited, which added to the relaxed atmosphere. The views out to sea are beautiful and the breeze is refreshing. It’s a great place to sit and just enjoy the scenery. One thing to note is that the pier is right next to a fairly busy road, so getting there can be a bit hectic. Parking can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak times, so visitors should plan ahead or consider using public transport if possible. Overall, I had a lovely time and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a slower, quieter seaside experience.

In a great location, lovely wide spacious pier with not a lot going on. Couple of places for food, drink and ice creams and some kiddies rides and that’s it. Nice view of the coastline but that’s it. Some small pop up shops that were closed.

Needs some TLC but still worth a walk along for the views. Amusements and rides, indoor cafe and outdoor range of international food, bar although most were closed when we went

Came from London for the day to visit the true crime museum and it didn't disappoint!!! Fantastic day, from the moment you walk in your are welcomed in such a friendly manner, and then left to explore in your own time, so much to see and read about for any true crime fan! Lost of different bits to interact with, I would suggest to buy the post cards and crime book, had fun taking our own finger prints on the crime post cards and the crime magazine has so much inside to do with everything in the museum! Which was great for me because I couldn't stay long as I was with my elderly parents but even they had a fab time looking around and really enjoyed it! I will absolutely be back to visit again so I can spend much more time here! I don't want to post many pictures as it will ruin the experience for you! But if you enjoy crime from now and the past I would absolutely recommend you to visit! Thank you for a great day out. Stacey

The true crime museum offered an engaging and informative experience. The exhibits provided comprehensive details on serial killers, UK-based offenses such as football hooliganism and cannabis-related crimes, and prominent crime lords. I would recommend a visit to this museum. Wheelchair-friendly parking available on the side roads.

A small but interesting experience with a side of creepy at this museum. Definitely a go see place for any true crime aficionado. Lot of interesting exhibits. Maybe a touch expensive if not a true fan.

Really interesting museum didn't take that long to get around not sure its worth the over £10 to get in. Really could do with its own cafe. Staff nice and helpful.

Very cool place to visit, full of interesting tidbits for the morbidly curious. Where else can you catch a glimpse of Rose Wests knickers! Super welcoming staff. It's chilly down in the exhibition so bring a jacket.

Spent over 3 hours in here as I wanted to read everything! Lots of interactive bits, it's nice being inside the actual caves. Random extras added so it's not all gruesome and murder. loved seeing dogs allowed inside. Nice gift shop and friendly staff

Gruesome yet fascinating, this museum was fantastic! So much to read about.

Nice building, decent cafe/ restaurant with views overlooking the Fishing area (the Stade) The art exhibits are not quite my cup of tea, although I appreciate the thought and work that has gone into their creation. Good to see that local schools have been involved and have work on display.

This museum is located by the coast, among fishing boats and apparel, a black box of sharp edges containing two levels of art spaces, a small patio, and a café. At the time of the visit they had two suitably nautical themed exhibitions, 'The sun feeds the wind' and 'Undersea'. The former is a set of huge pieces and an expansive map of the area in one wall that showcases the local knowledge of fishermen and their experiences, the latter is a collection of paintings, prints, and engravings from different cultures and their approach to the sea. It's a small and lovely place that is well engaged with by the community, with spaces for activities and workshops for children. If only there were more places like this around the country! Can't miss it if you are in Hastings.

Great contemporary art gallery with very exciting and innovative exhibitions. Artists you probably will not see anywhere else. It has an excellent cafe with great views over the seafront and fishing boats. Hastings Old Town has lots to do and look at nearby. If you have the time, East Hill has great views and the country park is great for a walk.

Visited Undersea exhibition. Nice curation and lovely venue. Haven't tried the new cafe but its view was stunning.

I visited the Undersea exhibition and was impressed with the quality and variety of the works. The staff were knowledgeable and friendly. The restaurant, coquina, upstairs served a superb lunch and has great views from the balcony.

One of our favourite places to mooch about in Hastings. There is always something interesting to see, and they always have such great children's events. The cafe is great too, with amazing views

Excellent - haven’t been for a long time. Very impressed with the ‘Sun Feeds the Wind’ - very beautiful and moving. Also the cafe, excellent coffee, cake and food - a bit pricey but definitely worth it - although the young lady serving me could do with smiling, makes all the difference if you’re paying over £20 for a lunch and include the service charge, I don’t think I would tipped otherwise.

It's only a small little place but it was amazing to see the boat indoors and also to be able to go on deck. There is so much information about the shit from the day it was built to the day it was donated to the fisherman's museum. This is a great place to visit if your ever in Hastings.

A must-visit (if you’re into understanding a towns culture, heritage and history!). The care and attention that has gone into curating stories of Hastings over hundreds of years, photos, models, life size exhibitions and more besides. A wonderful tribute to the town. Wish we’d had a bit longer - spent about 45 minutes here, could be 60-90 depending on how much you want to take in. Be sure to leave a donation and don’t miss some of the outside info boards too.

Well curated museum - funny miniature of fish market and pier. Support them by donation.

Interesting museum , some interaction for kids tying knots. Free to enter.

Jam packed with quaint but low quality dioramas, photographs, and displays, with a fishing boat taking up most of the museum that had an accessible deck. Not much to see, was in and out in 5 minutes. No complaints though with free entry, some nice fridge magnets and the staff were lovely.

Lovely little free museum (donations welcome) with lots of interesting and quirky exhibits about the the historic fishing industry in Hastings

Great little museum, with lots of artefacts, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and free to enter. Accessible for pushchairs and wheelchair users. Some lovely little souvenirs are available to buy too. Definitely worth a visit

Went to see the Wailers perform. It was a fantastic very entertaining evening. The stage looked great with a fantastic balcony view. The staff were great and directed you to your seat. Can't wait to go to the White Rock Theatre again and again.

For the last four years HKA has run their fight show at the White Rock Theatre and every year it gets better great venue great location well looked after for a venue for holding the event. It’s wild class.

Hastings main theatre. Located on the seafront directly opposite the pier. No car park but there is an underground car park a short walk away that often has spaces. Great venue and it seats quite a few. The bar area that overlooks the seafront is nice but gets very busy and you end up queuing ages for a drink.

I absolutely loved my first visit to this theatre. Staff were really friendly and helpful. Me and my daughter watched Rumours and it was a brilliant show with a fun atmosphere. Very enjoyable experience. Will definitely return :)

I recently visited The White Rock Theatre to celebrate my husband’s birthday to see the band T-Rextasy, and we had an amazing time! The atmosphere was fantastic, with two bars available—one upstairs offering a lovely sea view. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, making our experience even better. If you’re looking for a great night out with live music, this place is definitely worth checking out!

The place lacked atmosphere during the show, but I have to blame the audience for that as the act is a proven entertainer with 60 years experience . However, the theatre facilities are excellent. Perhaps the actual auditorium is a bit small?

Good medium-sized venue, large standing area at the front by the stage.

An absolute gem!! Wonderful working museum.

I would love to post a glowing review of this museum. Today, for the second time I made the 4 hour round trip to Hastings so I could appreciate the workmanship and skill that went into making these flowers. Again I checked the website in advance to be sure it would be open. For the second time when I got there it was closed. No reason, no explanation. Perhaps it has closed permanently to the public, perhaps the owner is on holiday - there is no way of knowing.

Quaint different small museum. £1 entry.

Fantastic trip into the past. No wheel chair access. Museum in basement. Shop front is worth a look

Very cute little museum with lots packed into it. Some of the machinery is still used today which you can see.

Brilliant little place

Beautiful, quaint and traditional church. A lovely service was held here for my late Uncle. Everything was perfect for a solemn, dignified and celebratory occasion Comfort seating for around 100 attendees. Sound system meant everything could be heard. Vicar was warm, kind and provided a lovely service for this loved man. Lucky to past his 90th birthday many months ago. Thank you.

On my early morning dog walk. So pleasant to see the well maintained garden and the church well looked after.

Friendly welcoming church good toddler group

Great place for Christian worship.

Good place to worship

A church