🌊 Hastings: A Norman Gem on England's South Coast

Went to explore Hastings with friends on a deceptively sunny spring day—ended up getting lobster-red after just one hour chatting on the beach! 🦞 (Note to self: British sun is sneaky!) But this quirky town—first known to me through Poirot's Captain Hastings—delivered medieval charm, seafood feasts, and coastal views galore. 🏰 1. Hastings Castle One of the first stone castles built by William the Conqueror! Climb the ruins for sweeping coastal vistas and a blast of sea breeze. History + nature = perfect combo. 📍 Castle Hill Rd, TN34 3QZ ⏰ 10AM–4PM (may close in winter) 🛍️ 2. Hastings Town Centre Market A vintage lover’s dream! Hunt for antiques, handmade crafts, and retro postcards. Pro tip: Bring cash—some stalls are old-school! 📍 Priory Meadow Shopping Centre, TN34 1PH 🚞 3. East Hill Cliff Railway + Nature Reserve Ride the UK’s oldest cliff railway (£2.50 one-way) to East Hill’s grassy summit. Picnic with castle views or just nap like a hobbit in the sunshine! 📍 *Rock-a-Nore Rd, TN34 3DW* 🎨 4. The Stade Fishing Quarter Saxon for "landing place," this moody maze of black-tarred fish huts and bobbing boats hides art galleries and fresh seafood shacks. Grab mackerel for dinner! 📍 Same as above 🤫 Bonus: Smugglers Adventure? The town’s secret caves (used by pirates!) sound intriguing—next time! ☀️ PSA: That "cool" sea breeze is a UV trap—I turned into a human lobster. Wear sunscreen! #UKTravel #Hastings #DayTripsFromLondon #SeasideVibes