Those in need of a weekend by the sea can now get to a UK seaside town, even quicker.
A new train between Hastings and London will launch this December, and it takes just 1hr and 18mins.
The peak time express service shaves 14 minutes off the current journey for those departing from London Bridge, and heading to Hastings, Battle and Tunbridge Wells.
The Southeastern Railway service will depart from Charing Cross and call at:
- Waterloo East
- London Bridge
- Tunbridge Wells
- Battle
- St Leonards Warrior Square
- Hastings
The new morning service will depart Hastings at 08:05 and arrive at Charing Cross at 09:33.
A return service leaves Charing Cross at 16:11 and arrives in Hastings at 17:42.
Helena Dollimore MP, who has been campaigning for the new fast train said: ‘This new service is great news for commuters and for our local shops, hotels, pubs, and restaurants that rely on tourists coming down to visit us.’
But she clarified that it was a ‘pilot service,’ and emphasised, ‘If we want it to stay, we all must use it to show the demand.’
What is there to do in Hastings?
While Brighton might the south coast town many tourists flock to, Hastings has a lot to offer — it was named on TimeOut’s best UK seaside towns 2026 list, second only after Saundersfoot.
The town, of course, has a long history. For those history buffs heading to see the Bayeux Tapestry in London, which goes on display this month, Hastings is where it all happened (well, sort of).
The battle actually took place in nearby Battle (the town was named after the fight, not the other way around), but Hastings Castle is still worth a visit.
Hastings Castle started out as a fortified stronghold William the Conqueror built for himself before heading inland to fight Harold. It later became the stone structure that still stands today.
You can also head to nearby Battle, and visit the abbey, where the events of 1066 actually took place.
Everyone talks about Brighton, but Hastings might be the most underrated day trip from London. 🌊 Just over 1.5 hours by train, Hastings offers everything you’d want from a seaside escape: a historic Old Town, colourful fishing boats, independent cafés, cliff-top views, and one of the most unique beaches on the south coast. Things to do: 📍 Explore Hastings Old Town 📍 Walk along the seafront 📍 Ride the East Hill Cliff Railway 📍 Visit Hastings Castle 📍 See the famous fishing fleet 📍 Enjoy fresh seafood by the beach 📍 Watch the sunset from East Hill Whether you’re looking for a relaxing coastal walk, a photography spot, or a break from London, Hastings delivers far more than most people expect. 💾 Save this for your next day trip from London and share it with someone who needs a seaside escape. #hastings #uktravel #daytripsfromlondon #visitengland #seasidetown
Fast forward a few hundred years, and today, Hastings has a quaint Old Town to wander around. Head to Bobby & Dandy for some vintage shopping, and Judges Bakery for some delicious treats — the store is celebrating it’s 200th birthday this year.
Rock-a-Nore beach, on the edge of the Old Town, is one of Hastings’ most popular, with its white sand and dramatic views.
There’s plenty of drinking holes to choose from, too. There’s a designated crawl that goes through the Old Town, stopping off at the likes of Ye Olde Pump House, The Dolphin Inn, and The Crown along the way.
For food, Maggie’s Fish and Chips is a tiny seaside restaurant serving fresh catches of the day from Fisherman’s Beach in the heart of Hastings.
When it comes to scenery, of course you’ve got the beach. The town has an award winning pier, and be sure to take a trip to The Stade.
This ‘atmospheric’ part of the shoreline is home to the UK’s largest beach-based fishing fleet, which has been in use for over a thousand years and still operates daily.
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Nearby, you can visit the Hastings Fishermen’s Museum and the Shipwreck Museum, dedicated to the fishing industry and maritime history of Hastings. The British Tea Museum is also worth a trip.
Finally, to stretch your legs, the Grade II-listed Alexandra Park is a 10-minute walk from the centre of town, while Hastings Country Park features impressive views of the East Sussex shoreline.
There’s ancient woodland here, as well as a cafe to grab a caffeine hit afterwards.
Online, reviewers on TripAdvisor shared their love of the place, particular the Old Town.
One called it their ‘new favourite place,’ and the ‘UK’s best-kept secret,’ praising its ‘quirkiness’ and friendly locals.
‘Bustling vibe in a bit of history,’ added another.
Hastings Castle was built by William the Conqueror in 1066 after he landed on the coast of England. It was the first Norman motte-and-bailey castle built in England. Unfortunately due to costal erosion, much of the structure fell into the sea, leaving a few crumbling walls! It cost £6.95 when you pay on the day and it gas a lovely view of the sea #uktravel #castle #hastings #visitengland
Which other Southeastern routes are being improved?
The express service between Hastings and London isn’t the only thing travellers in the south east can look forward to from December.
Here’s everything you need to know.
- Half-hourly semi-fast services will run between Charing Cross and Tunbridge Wells throughout weekday off-peak periods and across Saturdays, providing more frequent journeys to Orpington, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.
- Half-hourly services between Victoria and Ashford via Maidstone East will be restored throughout the day, alongside additional direct services between Charing Cross and Ashford.
- An additional 16:58 evening peak service will run from Cannon Street to Ashford via Tonbridge and Headcorn.
- The Sheerness branch will benefit from two trains an hour throughout the day, seven days a week, offering improved connections at Sittingbourne.
- South-east London will see almost all routes operating at least four trains an hour during the daytime from Monday to Saturday, as well as improved connections with the Elizabeth line at Abbey Wood.
- Services on the Bexleyheath line will also become more frequent, with up to six trains an hour and half-hourly direct services to Charing Cross throughout the day.
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