Hastings hotels, United Kingdom

Best places to stay in Hastings

The seafront is the vibrant center of any beach town. Hastings Old Town is a delightful area, home to the Hastings Contemporary gallery, the aquarium, and two funicular railways. It's conveniently located near Smugglers Adventure for kids and a classic beachfront activity—miniature golf. The nearby suburb of Belmont is similarly charming, welcoming, and peaceful, offering sea views and park access. The town center is convenient for those traveling by train, with excellent beach access, shops, and restaurants. You're also near the pier, the castle, and Alexandra Park, which hosts outdoor events and festivals in the summer. Enjoy the popular True Crime Museum, Hastings Museum & Art Gallery, the theater, and numerous cafes and restaurants in the area. St Leonard’s, though technically another town, seamlessly merges with Hastings and is a great option for budget-friendly stays while offering a fantastic beach stretch.

Where to stay near popular attractions in Hastings

Hastings Old Town and the town center, in front of the station, are the best areas for seafront attractions and the beach—which is stunning in every season. You won't want to stray far from the shore if you're here for a beach vacation. The old town also features charming cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, traditional pubs, and shops. The seafront is the prime place to stay for views and a lively atmosphere, with sea-view properties being highly sought-after.

Family-friendly accommodations in Hastings

Families will want to stay in the old town or main town area, close to the seafront, for maximum beach time and convenient access to shops and amenities. Belmont offers a peaceful, residential alternative where parking is typically easier (the center can be crowded) and noise levels are lower due to fewer tourists, bars, and pubs. Despite this, you're still close to key attractions and parks.

Solo traveler accommodations in Hastings

The area between Warrior Street Gardens and St Leonard’s Gardens has a cool, emerging vibe with more independent shops and eclectic eateries and bars, as well as a selection of budget-friendly accommodations. The classic British seaside architecture—grand white buildings with large bay windows—provides sea views. For a straightforward BnB right on the beach, The Lindum is unbeatable. Rooms are often under $100 a night (with single rooms available), offering a quiet atmosphere with direct beach access. Nearby, the Lansdowne Hotel is a chic four-star establishment offering single sea-view rooms for under $100.

Affordable hotel options in Hastings

Fortunately for beachgoers, hotel prices in Hastings haven’t yet skyrocketed with the influx of former city residents. This means there are plenty of budget accommodation options available. Castle and Pier Town House Rooms are consistently popular on South Terrace, close to the station and less than a ten-minute walk from the beach. It receives excellent reviews for value for money—with rooms between $50 and $100 per night—and location. It’s simple, cozy, and private. Hastings House is a five-star BnB right on the seafront, ideal for a quintessential beach break with a touch of luxury. The bedrooms and bathrooms are fully refurbished and modern, with thoughtful touches throughout, and you’ll get a home-cooked breakfast too, all for around $100–$150 a night. Trendy, colorful, and with a sea view, the Bank Hotel & Bistro offers another great, more luxurious option for your Hastings getaway. This cool BnB hotel features cozy rooms with modern decor for less than $100 a night and a straightforward approach to good, hearty food if you choose to dine in.

The event

This charming coastal town holds a special place in English history. It was the first settlement claimed by the infamous Norman leader, William the Conqueror, who played a key role in establishing many of Britain's cherished medieval landmarks. The pivotal battle took place on October 14th, likely several miles from the town in an area called Battle. William's army achieved a decisive victory over King Harold's forces, thanks to the Normans' superior military techniques.

The castle

No trip to Hastings is complete without a visit to its fascinating castle. Though now in ruins, it remains the oldest Norman castle in the country and offers stunning views of both the town and coastline. The French besieged the castle during the Hundred Years' War and World War II. It has since been preserved and is now one of the most popular attractions in East Sussex.

The Hastings Museum and Art Gallery

This popular venue hosts several temporary exhibitions each year and showcases the works of one of Britain's most renowned late-Georgian architects, James Burton. He founded the nearby St Leonards-on-Sea and designed many structures in London's historic Bloomsbury district.

The Hastings Country Park

Situated on dramatic sandstone cliffs, Hastings Country Park was established in the 1970s and is part of the breathtaking High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The park, which remains open daily, has been a site of human habitation since prehistoric times and is maintained by the Friends of Hastings Country Park Association.

The Hastings Fishermen's Museum

Housed in the Victorian Gothic-Revival style Fishermen's Church, this museum opened to the public in 1956, exploring the area's significant fishing and maritime history. Saved from demolition in the 1950s, the building is now a Grade II-Listed structure, thanks to efforts by the Old Hastings Preservation Society.

Where to eat

For delicious fresh pizzas, check out Pizzarelli, or savor Turkish delights at Nazar. If you're in the mood for tasty Thai cuisine, visit the Boulevard Bookshop and Thai Café, or enjoy remarkable steaks at the Two Bulls Steakhouse.

Spa hotels

Discover The Old Rectory in the tranquil area of Hastings Old Town, situated in a former 18th-century rectory. The interior exudes charm with Georgian-inspired elegance, and each uniquely decorated bedroom adds a touch of personality. Indulge in the hotel’s treatment rooms, offering a range of facials, massages, and beauty treatments.

The Bannatyne Spa Hotel, a well-known four-star spa hotel, is located about four miles from Hastings center, approximately a ten-minute drive. This country hotel features an expansive spa, pool, health center, sauna, and steam room. Choose from a wide selection of massages and treatments to make your getaway truly relaxing.

Luxury hotels

The Laindon is an elegant bed and breakfast option in Belmont, offering ultra-modern facilities and charming decor. It exudes a subtle luxury with its peaceful streets and comforting atmosphere, making it the perfect retreat. The delicious breakfast adds to the experience.

Anne’s House is a five-star bed and breakfast near the station, set back from the beach. It offers a five-star experience without the price tag, with rooms available for under 200 USD per night. The interior is quaint and maintains the Edwardian architecture of the building. The rooms are spacious with luxurious bathrooms, and guests have access to a private garden.

At Black Rock Guesthouse, tradition meets modernity in this sophisticated five-star-rated bed and breakfast. It features quirky antique decor combined with sleek modern amenities. The rooms are bright and spacious, and the breakfast is always a favorite among guests.