Ancient castles, family-friendly attractions, and a picturesque seaside setting make Hastings a fantastic base for exploring England’s South East Coast. The town is famous as the site of the Battle of Hastings, a notorious clash between the English and the Norman-French in 1066. In the Victorian era, Hastings emerged as one of the most desirable resorts in the country. Today, you'll love exploring historic ruins like Battle Abbey and Hastings Castle, strolling along the shingle beach, and peering into a constellation of cozy cafes and hip art galleries.