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A photo of the street in Hastings

A tale of two seaside towns: Hastings vs. St Leonards-On-Sea

Blog post author - Carla

by Carla Abreu

What's in it for me?

  • Historic Hastings: Treat yourself at Judges Bakery and enjoy vintage shopping on George Street
  • Artistic St Leonards-On-Sea: Enjoy lunch at Heist Street Food Market and visit local galleries
  • Convenient Escape: Perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway, just a short train ride from London

If you’re seeking a coastal escape from London, Hastings and St Leonards-On-Sea offer a delightful blend of history, art, and quirky charm.

I recently spent a day exploring these neighbouring towns on a short day trip from London. I’d been keen to escape the bustling city for the calming seaside, and the short, 90-minute train journey meant these towns were a no-brainer!

Here’s how I spent a day in Hastings and St Leonards-On-Sea—two seaside gems, each with its own distinct character.

Morning in Hastings: History and Charm

Start with a treat at Judges Bakery

I began my day in Hastings with a visit to the nearly 200-year-old Judges Bakery. This charming bakery, tucked away on the High Street, is a local favourite. The aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries greeted me as I stepped inside. I couldn’t resist getting a cinnamon bun, and it was the perfect choice. The bun was soft and warm, with just the right amount of cinnamon and a delightful cream cheese icing. Paired with a cup of coffee, it was the perfect start to my day.

Street view of a bakery in Hastings

Quirky stop at the Piece of Cheese Cottage

Next, I headed to the Piece of Cheese Cottage, a quirky little house that’s shaped like a wedge of cheese. This curious landmark is a must-see for its unique architecture and the fun photo opportunity it provides. As I stood in front of the cottage, I couldn’t help but smile at its whimsical design. The cottage has served a few purposes over time, but is now a self-catered accommodation. I’m so curious to see what it looks like on the inside, but just getting a view of the exterior was a lot of fun. It was a quick stop, but it set the tone for a day filled with unique discoveries.

Outside view of the Piece of Cheese Cottage in Hastings

Artistic inspiration at Hastings Contemporary

A short walk brought me to Hastings Contemporary, a modern art gallery with a stunning view of the sea. The gallery features contemporary works by both established and emerging artists. As I wandered through the exhibit highlighting an Ethiopian artist using unique materials like motherboards and electrical wires, I felt a surge of inspiration from the creativity and diversity of the pieces on display. The gallery’s serene atmosphere and the beautiful seaside view made it a truly enriching experience, and a good place to hide away from the wind and rain.

Exterior view of Hastings Contemporary museum

Vintage treasures on George Street

Hastings is a haven for vintage lovers, and George Street is the epicentre. The street is lined with eclectic shops offering everything from retro clothing to antique furniture. I wandered through several stores, marvelling at the unique finds and enjoying the nostalgic ambiance. Each shop had its own charm. Even walking along the street was a delight, as so many shops featured charming window displays and historic architecture.

Street view of George St in Hastings

Scenic ride on the West Hill Lift

To get a panoramic view of the town, I took the West Hill Lift. This historic funicular railway transports you to the top of West Hill, where you’re rewarded with stunning vistas of Hastings and the coastline. The carriages you take are the original Victorian carriages and run – to my surprise – every two minutes! The short but scenic ride was both fun and functional. Standing atop the hill, with the wind in my hair and the town sprawled below, I felt a deep sense of tranquillity – and relief that I didn’t have to climb up by foot!

Exterior view of the West Hill Lift in Hastings

Exploring Hastings Castle

At the top of West Hill lies Hastings Castle, a mediaeval ruin with a rich history dating back to the Norman Conquest. I spent some time exploring the ancient walls and learning about the castle’s storied past. Walking among the ruins, I imagined the lives of those who had once called this castle home. The views from the castle grounds were breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photos and reflection.

Photo of Hastings Castle

Afternoon in St Leonards-On-Sea: Art and Relaxation

Lunch at Heist Street Food Market

After my morning in Hastings, I walked along the coast to St Leonards-On-Sea, which only took me 30 minutes including a few stops for pictures! St Leonards was described to me as something of Hastings’s trendier, artistic cousin, so I decided to check it out for myself.

My first stop in the seaside town was Heist – a street food market – for lunch. This vibrant market offers a variety of delicious options from different cuisines. I opted for a black bean burrito, and it was a fantastic choice. Being from the US, I’m always excited when I find good Mexican-inspired cuisine here in the UK. The burrito was bursting with flavour, the black beans perfectly seasoned and the fresh vegetables adding a delightful crunch. It was a satisfying and hearty meal that energised me after a morning of walking along the seaside.

Exterior view of Heist Food Market in St Leonards-On-Sea

Stroll through Warrior Square Gardens

Next, I took a relaxing stroll through Warrior Square Gardens. This little oasis is perfect for unwinding after a meal. I found a quiet bench and spent some time people-watching and soaking in the serene environment. The gardens were a lovely spot to relax and reboot for the rest of the afternoon.

Photo of a garden at in St Leonards-On-Sea Warrior Square

Gallery Hopping: Lucy Bell Gallery and Big Yin Gallery

St Leonards-On-Sea is known for its artistic vibe, and I visited two standout galleries. First, the Lucy Bell Gallery, which specialises in contemporary photography. The thought-provoking exhibits were a highlight of my visit, each photograph telling a compelling story. Then, I headed to the Big Yin Gallery, a space dedicated to local artists of all backgrounds. Big Yin even sells an array of plants, which look so lively next to all of the colourful art on display! If you’re in St Leonards-On-Sea, visiting a few local galleries is a must-do, as it’s a big part of today’s culture in the seaside town.

Inside Lucy Bell gallery

Vintage Shopping on Kings Road

Continuing my vintage shopping spree, I explored Kings Road. The street is home to several charming vintage shops, each with its own unique offerings. From retro fashion to quirky collectibles, there was plenty to catch my eye. On a practical level, Kings Road is a short road leading directly to the train station, so this is the perfect place to wander while you wait for your train to arrive.

Exterior view of King's Road Bazaar in St Leonards-On-Sea

Coffee Break at Fika

Before heading back to London, I stopped for coffee at Fika, a trendy coffee shop located on Kings Road just across from a massive vintage store. This cosy café looks like the perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day, with its beautiful back garden. I ordered an oat milk latte and an almond croissant to enjoy on the train back to London Bridge. The croissant was perfectly flaky with a sweet almond filling, and the coffee gave me the energy I needed to sort through all my photos after a busy but rewarding day.

Close-up of a commercial coffee machine in Fika coffee shop in St Leonards-On-Sea

Final thoughts

Comparing Hastings and St Leonards-On-Sea is like comparing two sides of a delightful coin. Hastings offers a rich tapestry of history, art, and English charm, while St Leonards-On-Sea exudes a relaxed, artistic vibe with its galleries and coffee shops.

Coastal escapades are a great way to reset – short-trips to lovely places where art, food and history come together.

Both towns provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of London, each with its own unique attractions and atmosphere.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply in need of a seaside retreat, both Hastings and St Leonards-On-Sea promise a memorable experience. And the best part? They’re just a short train ride away from London, making them ideal for a day trip or a leisurely weekend getaway.

As I boarded the train back to London, my oat milk latte and almond croissant in hand, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the day’s adventures and the beautiful memories I had made.

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