Hastings and St Leonards on Sea B&Bs

Apr 18, 2012 | No Responses

Hastings in East Sussex is best known as the scene of the infamous battle of 1066 and, not surprisingly, there are many fascinating historical sites along this part of the South Coast. However, first and foremost, it’s a lively seaside resort with plenty to appeal to visitors of all ages. More importantly, with a number of gorgeous B&Bs in this area, there’s bound to be one that appeals to you!

Hastings is really three towns in one joined by a level promenade – there’s the attractive and well-preserved Old Town to the east; the bustling, contemporary town centre in the middle; and St. Leonard’s to the west, which features the classical elegance of James Burton’s architecture and the fashionable Norman Road, which has been dubbed ‘Portobello Road-On-Sea’, thanks to its array of antique shops and galleries.

During the last century, the fortunes of the area rose and fell; it was one of the UK’s most fashionable seaside resorts during the early 1900s, but, by the latter part of the 20^th century, it had fallen into decline. In recent years, it has enjoyed a revival and, these days, Hastings has a distinctly, cosmopolitan vibe. It’s home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe; the remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror; and has a strong local arts community. Towards the end of last year, the Jerwood Gallery, a stunning new venue housing a collection of 20^th and 21^st century British art, opened in the Stade area, which is in the middle of the fishing quarter.

We have five beautiful places for you to stay in Hastings and St. Leonard’s-On-Sea. There’s a property to suit all tastes, so take your pick:

Black Rock House, an elegantly restored Victorian Villa, is located a stone’s throw from the beach in Hastings. The railway station and Old Town are just a few minutes’ walk away. This beautiful guest house has an elegant, contemporary look and feel that perfectly sets off its grand Victorian proportions and stunning original features. The stylish sitting room has an open fire and is a relaxing spot to kick back with the newspapers or enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea, whilst planning how to get the most out of your stay in Hastings.

Hastings House in St. Leonard’s has been a guest house since 1855 and its fortunes have changed with those of the town itself. It has had new life breathed into it by its current owners, who spent more than two years renovating the interior to give it a boutique hotel-style feel, opting for a sleek, modern theme throughout. It now offers luxurious, child-friendly accommodation. Located in a charming square just off the seafront, it gives visitors easy access to the beach.

At The Cloudesley in St. Leonard’s – a relatively new addition to Boutique and Breakfast – relaxation is always top of the agenda. It boasts five opulent bedrooms and two dedicated holistic therapy rooms offering a range of treatments. This, together with the gourmet food on offer, ensures that guests always leave feeling rested and refreshed. The property is beautifully decorated in a truly unique and eclectic style, and is located just a few minutes’ walk from the railway station.

The Old Rectory offers stylish and elegant bed and breakfast accommodation in the quaint and picturesque Old Town. It’s located at the top of All Saints Street, one of the town’s original, medieval thoroughfares. The independent, quirky shops and boutiques, which line the cobbled streets of the Old Town, are just a short walk away, as is the fishing harbour, the pebbled beach and the beautiful 660-acre East Hill Country Park. An attractive period house, it has a large, mature walled garden, where guests can enjoy the sunshine or indulge in al fresco drinks.

Set in the heart of the Old Town, The Laindons is a Georgian, Grade II-listed coaching house that has been refurbished to provide chic and stylish accommodation. It is decorated in a luxurious, contemporary style, although care has been taken to preserve and complement its period features and Georgian elegance. There’s a large and comfortable sitting room for guests to relax in with an open log fire, as well as a breakfast room and conservatory overlooking the picturesque East Hill, much of which forms Hastings Country Park. Children over the age of five years are welcome.