7 of the Best Free Things to do in Hastings with Kids
Hastings, a coastal town rich in history and charm, is a fantastic destination for families looking for free activities to enjoy with their children (and a personal favourite of mine). From beaches to historical landmarks, there’s something for everyone to explore without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of the best free things to do in Hastings with kids.
1. Hastings Old Town
Hastings Old Town is a picturesque area full of narrow streets, quirky shops, and historical buildings. Take a family stroll through the winding alleys, spotting interesting architecture and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The kids will enjoy discovering the old fisherman’s huts and the quirky characters in this historic part of town. It’s a lovely place to wander, window shop, and experience the charm of Hastings.
2. Hastings Beach
A trip to Hastings wouldn’t be complete without visiting the beach. Hastings Beach is perfect for families, with plenty of space for a few ball games and a large helping of fish and chips (just watch out for the seagulls). Like most beaches in the South East, it is pebbles, but there are plenty of picnic benches dotted around if you don’t sitting on stones.
3. Hastings Country Park
For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, Hastings Country Park offers over 850 acres of ancient woodlands, grasslands, and coastal cliffs to explore. The park has a range of scenic walking trails that are suitable for older children and provide stunning views over the English Channel. You can pack a picnic and make a day of it, letting the kids enjoy the fresh air and spot wildlife. It’s also a great location for a family nature hunt!
4. Alexandra Park
One of Hastings’ most beautiful green spaces, Alexandra Park is a perfect spot for a family outing. The park has a well-equipped children’s playground, plenty of open space for running around, and picturesque gardens to explore. There’s also a boating lake, where kids can feed the ducks and swans. During the summer months, you might come across free events, including outdoor concerts or family workshops.
5. Hastings Fishermen’s Museum
Situated in one of the historic net huts in the Old Town, the Hastings Fishermen’s Museum is free to enter and offers an insightful look into the town’s maritime heritage. Kids can explore the displays, which include old fishing boats, model ships, and various fishing gear. It’s a small but fascinating museum that will keep children entertained while learning about the importance of fishing in Hastings’ history.
6. Shipwreck Museum
Located close to the Fishermen’s Museum, the Shipwreck Museum offers another free opportunity to learn about the town’s maritime past. With collections of shipwreck artifacts and displays about sunken ships along the Sussex coast, it’s an exciting and educational stop for curious kids. They’ll love hearing about the dramatic shipwrecks and seeing the treasures recovered from the deep!
7. Hastings Castle (View from Outside)
While there’s a fee to enter Hastings Castle, you can still enjoy stunning views of this historic site from the outside. Located on the West Hill, the remains of William the Conqueror’s first castle in England offer a dramatic backdrop for a family walk. It’s a great spot for kids to learn about the Battle of Hastings while taking in the sights.
With its rich history, beautiful parks, and coastal charm, Hastings is full of free, family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the town’s maritime heritage, enjoy a day at the beach, or take in the scenic views, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in this vibrant seaside town.
