Made in Kent... ...Take your Kids
The Blue Reef Aquarium is an option should you be there when its raining. We have been a couple of times but if you have several kids it can get costly.
They do operate an annual pass which can be economical if you expect to be visiting Hastings at least a few times.
Normally a bag of chips on the beach will suffice as long as the seagulls dont steal too many !!. Sit watching the waves, I make sure my son inhales as much fresh sea air as is humanly possible as I'm convinced it assists sleep and tires them out. I often jar some too !
However I must just mention a great 'eat all you can buffet' which is an ideal place to dine with the kids. It gives my son his 'fancy restaurant' fix and I personally think its a great way to encourage kids to try a selection of different foods. On offer is Chinese, Indian, Thai, A Sushi bar and a chef who will cook a steak, prawns or tuna in front of you. Its called Eatto and can be found at 8-9 Harold Place. They have a childs price but it goes on their height rather than age, which makes me smile. There is also a chocolate fountain......... I rest my case.
By Heidi Bond
My hubby has always loved visiting Hastings as he used to go there as a kid with his Gran for days out.
Hastings is 24 miles east of the county of Lewes and 53 miles south east of London. It can claim fame through its connection with the Norman conquest of England and became one of the medieval Cinque Ports.
The old part of Hastings is rather enchanting, has a great family vibe, coupled with plenty of street and cafe life. It's a great day out with kids as the beach is easily accessible and it can fit whatever budget you have available really. I think it also has a broad variety on offer so you can keep a selection of different ages entertained.
We tend to wander along the front as my son loves skimming stones and I am a self confessed people watcher ! We normally agree how much he can put in the slot machines on route and is a good wet weather plan. There is also crazy golf, trampolines and fair rides.
As far as parking if you visit on a Sunday you can park in the multi-storey all day for a pound. If you opt to park on the seafront its quite pricey and usually quite busy.
The old fishing port end is definately worth a visit and there is a minature gauge railway, that can be fun to ride. The kids think it's a great adventure. It's two pounds for a single and three pounds for a return. Also just along there are several fish shops and often a man outside cooking fish in a bap. Not to be missed.
There is also the East Cliffand West Cliff Funicular Railway. West Cliff can be found at the end of George Street. East Cliff will give you fantastic views over Hastings and on a clear day much further.
Family day out in Hastings