Do you know the truth about where the Battle of Hastings took place, and that the port sets Hastings apart from anywhere else in Europe? Here are four things you should know about Hastings.
Hastings beach and the Battle of Hastings are probably what come to mind when you think of this East Sussex town, but there are so many curious facts about Hastings you probably didn’t know. Here's our top four.
1. Largest fishing fleet in Europe
Walk along Hastings beach, and you’ll see myriad of small fishing boats on the beach, ready to set out to sea. You'll be surprised to know it's Europe’s largest beach-launched fishing fleet! Don’t miss the black wooden sheds behind the boats – they’re the historic net shops used to store fishing nets. Once there, why not discover Hastings Contemporary, an art gallery right by the net shops. It's part of the Coastal Culture Trail, along with Towner Eastbourne and De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill.
2. A flood destroyed Hastings Castle
The ruins of Hastings Castle stand on top of a hill, overlooking Hastings old town. Although the castle has suffered several military attacks throughout history, perhaps you didn’t know it was a flood in 1287 that washed away half the castle into the sea?
3. Music legends on Hastings Pier
You may know Hastings Pier is one of the oldest piers in England, built back in 1872, but maybe you weren’t aware The Rolling Stones, The Who, Jimi Hendrix, Genesis and Pink Floyd have all performed on the Hastings Pier pavilion.
4. The battle of Hastings didn’t take place in Hastings
The Battle of Hastings in 1066 established the Normans as the rulers of England, changing British history forever. You probably didn’t know that the battle actually took place in the field picture above, seven miles from Hastings. Go on the 1066 Country Walk or the Hastings circular walk and discover where it happened. Curiously, the fighting only lasted one day, from 9am to 5pm on a Saturday. Talk about what a difference a day can make.
Start planning your day out with Southern to this historic coastal town. Not only do you have ideas of things to do in Hastings, but now you’ve also got some fun facts to impress your friends with.
Remember to follow the latest government guidelines on travelling.
Images: iStockphoto
References: Hastings Observer; Discover Britain’s towns; Hastings Chronicle; Discover Britain mag