Discover
Hastings Castle
Breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel and historic Hastings Old Town frame our legendary ancient monument. Formed by 8,000 years of
settlements, stories and the seaside, it's now home to a wild variety of plants and animals, festivals, and communities, stories and ideas.
History
Perched on top of the West Hill, Britain's first Norman castle marks one of the most pivotal points in English history - a moment that still shapes the way we live today.
Humans have settled at this ancient monument site for at least 8,000 years. From Iron Age settlement to Norman invasion, Victorian revival to a 20th-century war defence, Hastings' Castle ruins stand as a witness to the allure of our islands, the mix of its people, and the depth of its culture.
Restoration
Hastings Castle's 1000-year-old history of ruin and recovery means that the castle and chapel walls need constant support and maintenance.
At times, you may find that some areas of the site are cordoned off or inaccessible to you.
We are working on ways we can all learn more about these fascinating restoration processes together.
Nature
Within the castle walls and all around the site, wild plant and animal life prevails, including rare species of bees. Teams are currently mapping what life has made this ancient monument site its home.
Follow seabirds as they soar and swoop around their clifftop homes, or explore the undergrowth to spy some mini beasts and signs of larger nocturnal creatures. Stay tuned for talks and events around this natural community asset.
Views
Hastings Castle boasts 180-degree clifftop, sea views that stretch from Beachy Head in the west, and picturesque Hastings Old Town and East Hill Country Parks to the east.
From here, you can watch English Channel ships float by on the horizon while a full canopy of stars lies above at night.
The West Hill Project
Thanks to funding from the Town Deal, we're working alongside Hastings Borough Council on plans for a new visitor centre, restaurant and cafe that will not only connect visitors to the fascinating past of Hastings Castle, but create a cultural destination for the future.
The project will eventually provide more ways to engage audiences with the story of Hastings Castle and its surrounding areas with interactive displays and events.