Cottages in Hastings

Located on the south coast of England, Hastings boasts a plethora of attractions for families, history buffs and anyone simply looking for a break in a charming English seaside town. Rent a cottage right next to the beach for easy access to sand-inspired buffoonery, or look just north in the old town and submerge yourself in its fine architectural beauty. If you’re an urbanite looking a pastoral location, head slightly out of town to the cottages situated in the lush, green countryside of High Weald.

Many cottages in Hastings tend are beautiful, old converted houses which are the epitome of British charm. Large windows which flood the interior with light, fabulous views over the rolling hills and ancient urban landscapes, and pretty, ornate gardens to relax in. Cottages in Hastings boast large, comfortable and airy rooms and high-spec kitchens, oiling the cogs of your holiday and ensuring that when you come home from a day’s sightseeing, the holiday feeling only intensifies.

History enthusiasts will be familiar with the name of the famous battle named after the town of Hastings. In 1066, William the Conqueror gained victory in the Battle of Hastings and was crowned the first Norman King of England, transforming the course of history of Great Britain. Nowadays Hastings and its surroundings are a mecca for those seeking to immerse themselves in this fascinating part of England’s past, with myriad ancient sites and attractions to visit connected to the war and its aftermath

The number one attraction for families in Hastings is of course its beach. Hastings beach is sandy in sections, particularly when the tide is out, and a good spot for picnicking and rock-pooling. The beach is super family-friendly, with all the amenities, and featuring a lovely promenade and pier. Rainy day? Take your family to Blue Reef Aquarium for exotic sea-life and hands-on exhibits. Or how would your kids like a ride on the tracks at the Hastings Miniature Railway? A compact steam train, in its full original splendour, replete with whistles and chugs, has been taking families on a ride down Hastings’ seafront for over 80 years, and now it’s your turn!

Hasting’s boasts a wonderfully quaint old quarter in a cosy medieval layout surrounded by a 14th century wall, a muddle of houses, shops and pubs tucked between two cliffs. It’s windy streets boast half-timbered houses and Georgian facades that are home to antique shops, quirky boutiques, traditional inns, and art galleries. Lovers of English architecture will love exploring this enclave of loveliness!

Today, it is a field like any other, but this was the scene of one of the country’s most important battles in its history. Look up and you can see the ridge where Harold’s troops stood in line ready to fight for the throne of England.

Now just ruins of its former glory, there is still something hugely evocative about standing in the atmospheric ruins of Battle Abbey, established by William himself. This is also the place where King Harold was finally killed.

Hastings has two funicular railways rattling up and down its sandstone cliffs. Ride the oldest of the two, the 150-metre West Hill Lift, which has been in operation for over 130 years, and still uses its Victorian coaches.

Hastings Castle was William the Conqueror’s very first castle in England. The view from its ramparts over the old town of Hastings is really beautiful, and your entrance ticket includes a film of the history of the castle, making it a great educational visit for the family.

The exhilarating, and sometimes terrifying stories of smugglers from the 18th century are told at St Clements Caves, a short drive from Hastings. Learn all about their hazardous profession through interactive displays and dramatic historical recreations.

Jerwood Gallery is a contemporary art museum located right in front of the old town, featuring works by some of the biggest names of modern British art such as Stanley Spencer, and Ben Nicholson.

Over the years literally thousands of ships have met a grizzly fate near to Hastings, and Shipwreck Museum charts some of the ships that have been wrecked off the coast of southeast England. The museum is multisensory, with numerous exhibits to touch, smell and hear.