Six years ago Hastings Pier went up in flames, but the town’s most beloved feature has reopened after a £14.2m renovation. There are 360° views from the new Deck (pictured), clad with the old pier’s timber and containing a museum exploring its history. Visitors can still enjoy traditional seaside attractions referencing its mid-century heyday, from vintage funfair rides to a tarot reader’s booth. The pavilion houses a bar and restaurant, and also hosts regular events, including open-air cinema and concerts, a nod to its former esteem as a rock and roll venue. The pier is an apt symbol for the town itself, which has recently enjoyed a new lease of life, giving nearby Brighton a run for its money with its gamut of boutique shops and cool restaurants (AG Hendy & Co is both; aghendy.com). But don’t overlook Hastings at its old-school best – the Victorian funiculars, crazy-golf course and seafood shacks are all reminders of why we do like to be beside the seaside.
The Deck, in the centre of Hastings’ new pier, includes a café, shop and viewing platform
PHOTOGRAPHS: STEFANO TORRIONE/SIME/4 CORNERS, BORO HOTEL/FLOTO + WARNER, THE NOGUCHI MUSEUM/PHOTO ELIZABETH FELICELLA, BRIAN PALMER/MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE, IMAGE COURTESY OF RAMBOLL, PHOTOGRAPH DANIEL SHEARING
MAKE IT HAPPEN
For events, visit hastingspier.org. uk. For general information on the area, see visit1066country.com.
There are direct trains to Hastings from London’s Charing Cross Station, Ashford International and Brighton (from £13.40 rtn from Brighton; nationalrail.co.uk).
The best fish and chip vendors are found on Rock-a-Nore Road; Webbe’s is particularly friendly (webbesrestaurants.co.uk).
Bramley & Teal Holiday Cottages has several lovely properties in Hastings and offers generous, cake-filled welcome packs. Particularly special is Belmont Cottage, built in 1835 and updated with metro-tiled bathrooms and classic textiles (£624 for a three-night stay; sleeps six; bramleyandteal.co.uk).
Quote Lonely Planet Traveller when booking by 31 September for a free bottle of prosecco or champagne.