Where to Stay, Eat, Shop & Explore

Your insider's guide to our beloved creative seaside towns that are becoming the South Coast's best-kept secret.

St. Leonards-on-Sea and Hastings have undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. What were once traditional seaside towns have evolved into vibrant creative hubs, drawing artists, wellness practitioners, independent food entrepreneurs, and those seeking an alternative to London's pace and prices.

This twin-town destination offers something unique: authentic seaside charm combined with a thriving independent scene, world-class contemporary art, innovative dining, and a growing wellness community. Whether you're visiting for a weekend retreat, exploring the creative scene, or considering a life change by the sea, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Where to Stay

The accommodation landscape in St. Leonards and Hastings reflects the area's creative and wellness-focused evolution, offering everything from boutique B&Bs to stunning seafront apartments.

Boutique Hotels and B&Bs

Bank House Hotel Set in a former bank on the seafront next to the famous St Leonards Warrior Square, the Bank Hotel is an amazing getaway, suitable for couples and families to experience all the seaside has to offer. With sea views and modern decor, it's perfectly positioned for exploring both towns. thebankhastings.co.uk

Hastings House B&B This gold award-winning boutique B&B offers individually designed rooms with beautiful furnishings and upholstery. Located conveniently to St Leonards Warrior Square railway station. hastingshouse.co.uk

The Knowle This handsomely decorated Edwardian villa offers three generously-sized rooms that perfectly blend luxury with homeliness, each with lovely views over either Marwick Gardens or the sea (best enjoyed at sunset). Booking.com

Self-Catering Apartments and Houses

Marina Beach House Described as 'bed to beach in 45 seconds,' this stunning two-bedroom converted townhouse on the promenade offers spectacular sea views from a living room bathed in sunlight. Booking.com

Huge Georgian Villa Family friendly, huge bright & airy Georgian House. Exceptional sea-views & 5 min walk to beach.
Website: Airbnb.com

Sea Studio a modern hideaway in an urban village - part of a church hall conversion with white walls, oak (under heated) floors, and double glazed warmth and silence. It is for the sophisticated holidaymaker looking for on hand urban facilities. Airbnb.com

Saint Leonards Maisonette Tucked behind the imposing Warrior Square, round the corner from trendy Norman Road, and just two minutes walk from the shingle beach, this gorgeous two-bedroom maisonette mixes vintage finds with airy rattan and a touch of Nordic chic. Airbnb.com

Where to Eat: A Thriving Food Scene

The culinary landscape has exploded in recent years, with innovative restaurants, street food markets, and international cuisine transforming the dining options.

HEIST Market - Norman Road HEIST is a bustling indoor food market in St Leonards-on-Sea - street food, craft beer, natural wine, coffee and cocktails plus home to Boatyard seafood restaurant.
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Boatyard within HEIST specializes in fresh seafood and market fish, offering everything from oysters to Sussex Wagyu steak in a relaxed setting.
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Farmyard - Kings Road Sister restaurant to Boatyard, Farmyard focuses on local produce and natural wines. Known for creative vegetarian and vegan dishes alongside organic meats and renowned Sunday roasts.
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Coquina - Hastings Contemporary Gallery The partnership between coquina and Hastings Contemporary celebrates the best of South Coast putting Hastings and St Leonard's on the map for art, food and culture.
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Restaurant Albo A newer addition offering bistro-style dining, bringing European influences to the local scene.
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Arigato a vibrant Café Restaurant and Bar situated on the trendy Norman Road, St Leonards-on-sea sea front providing authentic Japanese cuisine. The food is very healthy freshly cooked daily, and the atmosphere is very friendly.
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BAYTE - Kings Road A modern European neighbourhood restaurant with emphasis on local sourcing and quality produce. The seasonal menu blends global influences with particular reference to Italian recipes, including hand-rolled pastas.
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Monellis Pizza Following family tradition since 1923, Monellis creates long-fermented artisan pizzas using daily-fed sourdough starter. This cozy, small pizzeria represents authentic Italian pizza-making at its finest—many locals consider it the best pizza in the area.
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Coffee Culture

Goat Ledge - Lower Promenade, Warrior Square This vibrant community café epitomizes St. Leonards' bohemian spirit. Located right on the beach with colorful huts spilling onto the sand, Goat Ledge serves excellent coffee, locally caught fish baps, and creative breakfast options.
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Dark Circles A specialty coffee destination that has become a cornerstone of the local coffee scene, known for its expertly crafted brews and distinctive atmosphere.
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Fika Embracing the Swedish concept of taking time for coffee and connection, this café offers a mindful approach to coffee culture with carefully sourced beans and a welcoming environment.
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Dovetail A craft-focused coffee shop that emphasizes quality and attention to detail, serving thoughtfully prepared coffee alongside light bites in a stylish setting.
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The area has embraced specialty coffee culture, with independent cafes serving excellent coffee alongside creative breakfast and lunch options. Many offer vegan and gluten-free alternatives, reflecting the community's health-conscious approach.

Shopping: Independent and Unique

The shopping scene reflects both towns' creative spirit, with carefully curated independent stores offering everything from vintage treasures to contemporary homeware.

St. Leonards

SHOP - Norman Road A carefully curated independent shop that embodies the area's creative spirit, offering unique finds that reflect local taste and style.
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Rock Body Soul - Crystal Shop Responsibly sourced crystals and wellness products, reflecting the area's growing interest in holistic health and spiritual practices.
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Hastings Old Town

RESTE - High Street RESTE specializes in artisanal and handcrafted products from around the world, including gorgeous ceramics, plants, candles, and sustainable home goods.
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Butler's Emporium - George Street Housed in a beautiful Georgian building dating from 1832, this historic shop retains many original fixtures from its days as a hardware store. Now curated by owner Rose, Butler's Emporium offers an exquisite selection of homeware, Turkish linens, chic ceramics, cosmetics, and fashion accessories.
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High Street and George Street These pedestrian-friendly streets form the heart of Hastings' independent shopping scene. High Street offers numerous art galleries, antique shops, upmarket homewares, artisan bakeries, and unique boutiques. George Street provides the charming link between old town and seafront, featuring eclectic independent shops, vintage stores, and local artisan producers.

Vintage and Antiques Both towns offer excellent vintage shopping, from mid-century furniture to retro clothing. Many shops are run by passionate collectors offering unique pieces alongside affordable finds, with everything from old typewriters to handmade pottery.

Art Galleries and Studios The creative community supports numerous independent galleries and artist studios, many offering original artworks and handmade crafts that make perfect souvenirs or gifts.

Wellness and Creative Spaces

The area has become a hub for wellness practitioners and creative professionals, offering numerous opportunities for both visitors and residents.

Saint Leonards

The Humble Hub - Shepherd Street With nearly 40 teachers offering everything from yoga and breathwork to dance and sound healing, this has become a central gathering place for the wellness community.
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The Humble Heart - Silchester Road The space offers esoteric and holistic practices including quantum healing, reiki, sound healing, yoga, tarot, and moon ceremonies. There's also a garden space for outdoor ceremonies and a fire pit for full moon gatherings.
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Lior Wellness Studio - London Road This yoga shala and movement studio also features a sauna and holistic health therapies, creating a comprehensive wellness destination.
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Hastings

Samphire Sauna A sustainable, Nordic-inspired sauna experience located on the iconic Hastings Pier with stunning South Coast views.
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The Wellington Centre - Wellington Square The center is known for its experienced practitioners who specialise in treating long-term health challenges while focusing on positive health and prevention.
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MADRE - Various Locations Offering yoga, sound baths, breathwork, and meditation across multiple venues in both St. Leonards and Hastings, both in-person and online.
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Arts and Culture

Hastings Contemporary This striking seafront gallery, designed by David Chipperfield, houses an impressive collection of contemporary art and regularly hosts major exhibitions. The building itself has become an architectural landmark.

De La Warr Pavilion - Bexhill While technically in neighboring Bexhill, this Grade I listed modernist building is easily accessible and offers world-class exhibitions, performances, and events.

Local Arts Scene Both towns support a thriving community of artists, with regular open studio events, pop-up exhibitions, and creative collaborations that visitors can often experience firsthand.

Outdoor Activities and Natural Beauty

Beach and Seafront The pebbly beaches offer excellent walking opportunities, with the seafront promenade connecting both towns. Swimming, paddleboarding, and other water sports are popular during warmer months.

Countryside Access The surrounding Sussex countryside provides excellent hiking opportunities, such as Hastings National Park, Pett Level and sections of the South Downs Way and access to the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Sustainable Tourism Both towns have embraced sustainable tourism practices, with many businesses focusing on local sourcing, environmental responsibility, and community support.

Getting Around

Train Connections Direct services to London take approximately 90 minutes, with regular services throughout the day. The journey itself is scenic, passing through the Sussex countryside.

Local Transport Both towns are easily walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops within comfortable walking distance of the train stations. Local bus services connect surrounding areas.

Cycling The flat seafront areas and surrounding countryside make cycling popular, with bike rental options available.

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Season Peak season brings festivals, outdoor events, and bustling beach activity. Accommodation books up quickly, and restaurants may be busier.

Off-Season Charm Autumn and winter offer a different kind of beauty, with dramatic coastal weather, cozy pub sessions, and a more local feel. Many businesses remain open year-round.

Events and Festivals Both towns host regular festivals celebrating everything from seafood to contemporary art, providing excellent reasons to time visits around specific interests.

Why This Area Works

The success of St. Leonards and Hastings lies in their authentic development. Rather than manufactured tourist destinations, these towns have grown organically, attracting creative individuals and independent businesses who value community, quality, and sustainability over mass market appeal.

The combination of affordable property prices (compared to London), excellent transport links, natural beauty, and creative community has created a unique environment that appeals to both visitors and those seeking lifestyle changes.

Whether you're exploring for a weekend, attending a wellness retreat, or considering a more permanent move to the coast, St. Leonards and Hastings offer something increasingly rare: authentic seaside towns that have evolved naturally while maintaining their character and charm.

The area continues to develop, with new businesses opening regularly while maintaining the independent spirit that makes it special. It's this balance between growth and authenticity that makes St. Leonards and Hastings such compelling destinations for discerning travelers.

Planning a visit?

Check out MADRE's upcoming retreats and events to combine wellness practices with local exploration.

Your Insider’s Guide to St. Leonards & Hastings