Hastings and St Leonards-on-Sea, the sister towns in East Sussex, have been ranked as the second-best seaside destination in the UK for summer 2026 by Time Out. The towns are located just 90 minutes from London by train, making them an ideal escape for city dwellers seeking a coastal refresh.
Ranking and Accessibility
Time Out's annual list of British seaside towns included 16 spots in 2026, with Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire taking the top spot. Hastings and St Leonards secured the silver medal. Nearly half of the entries are within 90 minutes of London, and these sister towns are just a 20-minute walk apart. The drive from central London via the A21 takes around two hours, while trains from Charing Cross, London Bridge, or St Pancras reach the coast in under two hours.
What to See and Do
The towns offer renowned art galleries, stellar antique emporiums, and a burgeoning restaurant scene. Hastings Contemporary is a notable cultural attraction. Foodies will find St Leonards particularly appealing, according to Ella Doyle, Time Out's Europe editor. She highlighted the food market Heist, described as a much nicer version of Boxpark, serving orange wine and street food. Goat Ledge, a colorful shack on the beach, is ideal for pints, while St Clement's offers an old-school dining experience with white tablecloths and delicious seafood.
Why It's Perfect for Londoners
Doyle noted that many Londoners moved to St Leonards during lockdown, and it remains a cracking day out for beachside drinks and great food. The combination of easy access, cultural offerings, and culinary diversity makes Hastings and St Leonards a top choice for a weekend getaway or day trip from the capital.
