Hastings
and St Leonards is far more than just a 'resort'. It is a living monument
to history, a way of life, a place where myth and modernity
collide in spectacular fashion. Beyond the three miles of unbroken beach,
the unique architecture and the traditional charms, there are stories to
be told and adventures to be had. We take a look at some of the unique qualities
that set this seaside town apart from all the rest. Unlike 'theme park Britain',
Hastings lives and breathes independently of its tourist trade. Here history
and tradition are an integral part of everyday life.
In the Old Town, Europe's largest beach-launched fishing fleet can still
be found in all its working glory. Unchanged for more than 1000 years, the
fleet provides visitors with an opportunity to taste some of the freshest
fish in Britain and wander amongst the net huts of the Stade (which is old
English for 'landing place'). Hastings is blessed with one of the strongest
historical backgrounds of any town in Britain. The starting point of the
Norman invasion in 1066, its landscape is decorated with stunning evidence
of that great conquest. The most impressive sight is that of the castle
on the West Hill, the first that William the Conqueror built in this country.
If you want to learn about history in a more unorthodox way, then look no
further than the Hastings Embroidery which can be found at the White Rock
Theatre. Many towns might rest upon the laurels of such a rich heritage
but here things are different. Of course there is the Hastings Museum and
Art Gallery and the Old Town Hall Museum, but a taste of the past is just
a small part of what the town can offer you. Visitors will quickly be drawn
into the rich tapestry of the town's social life. Here you will become a
part of a colourful local culture which is embroidered by the best live
music in Britain, a host of restaurants, bars and pubs and diverse entertainment
at the three main theatres - the White Rock, St Mary in the Castle and the
Stables.
During the summer, Hastings and St Leonards becomes one of the most cosmopolitan
towns in the world. Year after year, students from every corner of the globe
come here to study at the schools, join the bustle of everyday life and
enjoy the countless festival celebrations that have made the town famous
for far more than its history.
Throughout the town, there are a number of attractions that enthral local
residents as much as they enchant tourists. The Sealife Aquarium gives visitors
the chance to get close to everything from starfish to sharks, the Clambers
Play Centre and the Stade Family Fun Park give children the thrill of a
lifetime and the West Hill and East Hill Cliff Railways can, quite literally,
take you to the top of the world. Elsewhere, you can lose yourself in the
endless splendour of the Hastings Country Park which is a favourite picnic
spot for those in the know. Alternatively, you can join the locals for a
quiet Sunday afternoon in the gardens of West St Leonards, West Marina and
Alexandra Park. If you are interested in something a little more rigorous,
you will find most of the town's exercise enthusiasts in one of the three
gyms - Falaise, Summerfields or Hillcrest. These hi-tech centres provide
the latest in fitness technology and offer a brilliant opportunity to meet
people.
There is also the all-new Horntye Park sports complex which has a county
standard cricket arena, a floodlit all-weather pitch and numerous other
state-of-the-art facilities. Hastings and St Leonards is a virtual paradise
for shoppers. The winding twittens of the Old Town provide a fascinating
diversion for lovers of antiques and local art.
If you enjoy the familiar comforts of high street glamour, then look no
further than the Priory Meadow Shopping Centre. However, if it's the personal
touch you're after, then you have to visit King's Road for the choice and
diversity of the traditional family businesses. Like all places, it is the
people who make Hastings and St Leonards what it is. The students from all
over Europe, the visitors from all over the world and those who live and
work here are all part of an evolving community which keenly respects the
past and eagerly anticipates the future. In being here, you have become
an important part of that community. So for goodness' sake, get out there
and meet the people with whom you could be sharing the experience of a lifetime.
To open a large version of the map in a new window and plan a journey to Hastings and St Leonards click here.
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