Hastings is a historic seaside town on the south coast of England in East Sussex. The town is world-famous for the Battle of Hastings in 1066, although the battlefield itself is located nearby at Battle. Hastings Castle, built by William the Conqueror, stands above the old town and provides impressive views over the English Channel. The town developed as one of England's historic Cinque Ports and has retained a strong maritime identity.
Hastings: Historical sights and information
Facts about Hastings
- Latitude:
- 50.857018
- Longitude:
- 0.581217
- GPS Coordinates:
- 50°51' N, 00°35' E
The historical and tourist significance of the town
The historic Old Town is one of Hastings's main attractions, with narrow streets, independent shops, galleries and traditional buildings. Hastings Pier is a prominent landmark on the seafront, while the historic fishing beach remains an important part of the town's character. The nearby Battle Abbey marks the site of the famous 1066 battle and is an important destination for visitors interested in English history. The surrounding Sussex coast offers beaches, cliffs, countryside and scenic walking routes, including the dramatic landscape around Beachy Head.
Food and leisure
Hastings has a strong seafood tradition, with fresh fish and local seafood available around the historic fishing quarter. The Old Town also has numerous cafés, pubs, restaurants and independent food businesses. Summer is the most popular time for enjoying the seafront, although spring and early autumn are excellent for walking and sightseeing. Hastings is a particularly attractive stop when travelling along the Sussex and Kent coast.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Hastings.