Day Trip Idea: Discover the Sussex Town Crowned a Top UK Destination for 2026

We all love Brighton, but sometimes you need a change of scenery—a coastal escape that feels familiar yet entirely fresh. If you’re looking for the perfect day trip this year, look no further than our neighbour down the coast: Hastings and St Leonards. This East Sussex gem has officially been crowned one of the UK’s top destinations for 2026 by Time Out, ranking second nationally and best in England. It’s the ideal time to hop on the train and discover why this historic seaside town is buzzing.

Getting there is straightforward, making it a genuinely easy day out from Brighton. Once you arrive, the town immediately offers a different pace. While Hastings is famous for its 1066 history, the current excitement centres around its thriving independent scene, particularly in the Old Town. You can spend hours wandering the quaint High Street and George Street, where the tilted buildings give places like York's Shambles a run for their money. This area is packed with independent retailers, antique shops, and brocante stores. It’s a place where the high street is genuinely thriving, hosting unique spots like Old Hastings Pottery, where items are handcrafted on-site, and the extraordinary AG Hendy, a three-storey emporium dedicated to elegantly displayed household essentials.

Just next door, St Leonards is quickly becoming known as the cooler, trendier coastal epicentre. Head to King’s Road, which is lined with independent galleries, vintage shops, record stores, and homeware boutiques. This area has attracted what locals affectionately call DFLs (Down From Londoners), contributing to its up-and-coming vibe. For a cultural fix, the Hastings Contemporary is a brilliant independent art gallery right on the beach, championing contemporary British artists. If you prefer film, the vibrant independent cinema, the Electric Palace, offers a unique viewing experience.

History buffs will find plenty to explore, especially since 2026 marks the 960th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings. The town is planning a huge wargame to commemorate the event, alongside its usual packed calendar of cultural and community events like Fat Tuesday, Jack in the Green, and Pirate Day. You can visit the ruins of Hastings Castle, built shortly after the 1066 battle, or delve into the town's past at Smugglers Adventure in St Clement’s Caves. For the best views, take a ride on the East Hill Cliff Railway, a funicular lift dating back to 1902, connecting the seafront and Old Town with East Hill, offering panoramic vistas of the English Channel.

When hunger strikes, Hastings has evolved beyond traditional seaside fare. While locals swear by the chips at places like the Blue Mermaid in the lively fishing village, the food scene is diverse. You can grab fresh bagels at the Sleeper Store, enjoy Scandi-inspired coffee at Fika@44, or find natty wines at Heist. Whether you’re drawn by the history, the independent shopping, or the arts scene, Hastings and St Leonards offers a rich and varied day out. It’s clear why this East Sussex town is shining brightly this year.