Hastings - more than just 1066
There is something different about Hastings - we have fallen in love with it and we think you will too.
The White Rock Hotel is situated on the bustling sea front close to the centre of Hastings and directly opposite the town’s shingle beach adjacent to the area known as The America Ground and the Victorian pier (sadly closed at the moment). A short walk away are the many attractions of this lively and historic town, set against a spectacular background of cliffs and beautiful countryside. From the cobbled streets of the Old Town, the historic fishing port and Norman castle, to the traditional delights of an English seaside resort, Hastings caters for all tastes and budgets. Set in the heart of historic 1066 Country, Hastings is an ideal base for visiting the many historic and natural attractions of the region.
The jewel in Hastings’ crown is the Old Town which is almost unchanged, architecturally, from the days when smugglers plied their trade here. Today, the cobbled streets and picturesque buildings are home to a host of fascinating antique and craft shops and art galleries intermingled with atmospheric and quirky pubs, bars and restaurants, ranging from the traditional to the ultra-hip and cool. For a change of pace, you can take the East Hill lift, the UK’s steepest funicular railway, from the bustling Old Town to the peace and beauty of Hastings Country Park on the cliffs above.
Just behind the Hotel you will find White Rock Gardens, with bowls, minature golf, Clambers children's play centre, Falaise gym and Summerfields sports centre.
Hastings has long been a thriving fishing port, and today has the largest fleet of beach launched boats in Europe, still operating in the traditional way. On the fishing beach, near the Old Town, you can see the fishing fleet and the unique net huts, visit the Shipwreck Heritage centre, and sample some of the freshest fish you’ll ever eat, in one of the many pubs and restaurants nearby.
Along the seafront you will find all the fun activities the family will demand from a seaside resort, from crazy golf to fairground rides, along with some more unexpected treats, like the Smugglers Adventure tour of the spooky St Clement’s Caves.
Hastings has a vibrant cultural scene, with live music, theatre and comedy happening throughout the year, and events to suit every taste. As well as the Odeon cinema, showing the latest Hollywood releases, and the independent Electric Palace, the town has two theatres, including The White Rock Theatre right next to the hotel.
Click here for events in the hotel and in Hastings
