Looking for a luxury cultural break by the sea? The Coastal Culture Trail makes for a wonderfully special weekend away.
If you start the trail in Hastings, the Old Town has a great selection of luxury boutique B&Bs. The Laindons is located in the heart of the Old Town in a grade II listed former coaching house or Swan House, located just down the road, with its 15th century oak beamed ceiling and stunning contemporary decor is another favourite. Alternatively hire the beautifully restored House in Hastings which sleeps up to 10 guests.
Hastings Old Town has a number of excellent antique and vintage shops to explore plus Observer Food Monthly 2018’s Pub of the Year, The Crown.
Looking for somewhere to stop for lunch? Rock A Nore Kitchen offer great seafood tapas, all caught by Hastings beach launched fishing fleet. Venture a little along the coast and discover Robertson Street in the America Ground, overflowing with cafes and independent shops. Further along the promenade you’ll find the newest attraction in Hastings, coming summer 2021. The Courtyard Hastings sits in the grounds of Source Park, the world’s largest underground skate park, in the site of a Victorian Turkish baths.
Head along the seafront towards St Leonards where you will find a wonderful mix of antique shops, independent galleries and great places to eat. Try the infamous and vibrant Goat Ledge, Farmyard, and Tommy’s Pizza, or just a little further along the coast, the Marina Fountain for British tapas and a fine selection of wine.
Heading over to Bexhill, take a walk on the beautiful contemporary seafront and soak up the sun on the beach. The De La Warr Pavilion café, universally agreed to serve the best coffee in town, is a great place to stop for a bite to eat with stunning views over the English Channel and delicious light lunches, freshly made to order. Like Hastings, Bexhill has a range of vintage and antique shops if you are in the mood for a little retail therapy.
If you are looking to stay in Bexhill, check out the fantastic range of live evening events. De La Warr Pavilion hosts world-class live music, comedy and a range of other performances as well outdoor film screenings in the summer months. Stop over at Seaspray B&B, which offers boutique bed and breakfast accommodation in an elegant Victorian townhouse.
Eastbourne boasts the only 5* hotel on the English coast, The Grand Hotel. The magnificent Victorian building, located right on the seafront, offers luxury accommodation with sea views. There you can relax and enjoy spa treatments or take afternoon tea after you have explored the collection and exhibitions at the Towner Gallery. Book a tour of the fantastic Rathfinny Estate while you are in the area and dinner at Cru Wine Bar.
Have a gallery experience with a difference with Towner Art Gallery’s exclusive curator led store tours, which give an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse at some of Towner’s marvellous collection of almost 6,000 works of art.
When you’re done, come up to Towner’s second floor cafe, and enjoy an enticing selection of gorgeous handmade cakes, and indulge in the summer menu while you soak up the views of the Sussex Downs.