Hastings offers nostalgic charm and the coast, plus it's only about an hour from London. Best known for the battle in 1066, this fashionable Victorian holiday hotspot has reinvented itself as an arty destination for seaside weekenders, and today most of the best places to stay in Hastings lean towards the boutique end of the scale. A number of the hotels have bags of character, often with a touch of British eccentricity, and the very best offer lovely sea views.

Hasting's Old Town is the pretty bit of town. There are some charming medieval houses and plenty of small boutiques, independent interior design shops and art galleries. Much of the rest of Hastings was built during the Victorian era, so there are some lovely seaside squares, some very nice parks and also those quintessential Victorian facades.

The ruined Norman castle built by William the Conqueror is a must see on any visit. One of the best things about the castle is that the easiest way to get to it from Hastings is on a late-Victorian funicular railway which runs straight up the hill. There's an excellent exhibition in the castle grounds which will supply you with plenty of history. For more on William and 1066 head over to the town of Battle and Battle Abbey about six miles inland.

Due to its proximity to London, this is a popular spot at the weekends and during the summer months. So, to ensure a room at one of the best places to stay in Hastings we recommend planning your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Hastings

For an eco-friendly stay

• The Cloudesley is an excellent, eco-friendly guesthouse. The rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed with stylish furnishings and tasteful artwork. Indulge in a range of spa treatments including reiki, deep tissue massage, Thai hot compresses and reflexology. A seaside charmer.

For the design

• The Laindons is located on Hastings High Street, just a short walk from the coast. Offering chic, boutique accommodation this is an unassuming yet charming coastal break.
• Black Rock House is a pretty traditional property set just minutes from the coast. Having undergone a complete refurbishment the interiors are fresh and contemporary but still have an elegant traditional feel.

For traditional style

• The Old Rectory offers elegant rooms, which are both traditional and contemporary in feel, within an eighteenth-century building. With grand reception rooms, beautiful gardens, and freshly cooked breakfasts on offer, including locally caught fish and free-range eggs, this is an alluring stay.

For self-catered accommodation

• If you would rather the privacy of your own holiday home or apartment we recommend looking at the numerous option on our online partner's site Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Hastings is an easy 2 hour drive from London and there's also the option of a direct train from Victoria or St Pancreas.
• If you would like to rent a car, for prices we recommend visiting our online partner Rentalcars.
• The best time to visit is during the summer months May-August when there's the best chance of warm weather! However, if you want to visit at a less busy time spring and autumn are a good time to plan a trip.

Still not sure?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in East Sussex.
• Expand your search to include other seaside favourites such as Brighton or Eastbourne.
• Or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Hastings