Discover Hastings: Unique SHOPPING & HISTORICAL ADVENTURE
Are you looking for a truly unique experience in Hastings?
Hastings is brimming with independent shops, quirky cafes and venues, all nestled amongst stunning historic buildings. This is your chance to discover some of the town’s hidden gems and experience some of the best independent shops in Hastings.
This blog post will guide you on a journey of discovery, highlighting 7 fascinating buildings and shops that will make your Hastings travel itinerary truly unforgettable.
Whether you’re searching for off the beaten path experiences or simply looking to add to your list of things to do in Hastings, this guide will help you uncover what makes this English town so special.
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C. & S. Chamberlen – The Tobacconist & Cigar Merchant
š LOCATION:Ā 15 George St, Hastings TN34 3EG
This quirky little shop, owned by Chris Chamberlen, is a testament to the power of childhood inspiration. An encounter with a retiring pipe shop owner years ago sparked a flame that pathed the way for his own shop that opened in 2007.
Inside The Tobacconist & Cigar Merchant, you’ll find an impressive collection of memorabilia alongside a fine selection of pipes, cigars, and accessories. Whether youāre a smoker or not, this little shop throws you back to a bygone era.
In our fast-paced world, it was a refreshing sight to see locals enjoying a leisurely board game at the small seating area outside. It reminded me that sometimes, the simplest pleasures ā like a quiet conversation and a friendly game ā are the most valuable.
Ye Olde Pump House
š LOCATION:Ā 64 George St, Hastings TN34 3EE
With a name like āYe Olde Pump House,ā one would naturally assume this was once a pump house, right!? Well, I couldnāt have been further from the truth. The building was once home to Stokes and Carey shoe shop, however having sustained damage during WWII, it fell into a state of disrepair. With orders for its repair, the owner at the time renovated the building using recycled timbers, giving it an authentic old-world charm.
Interestingly, some of the framework within the building dates back to the 1600s. This, along with its historical significance, likely contributed to its Grade II listed status.
Electric Palace
š LOCATION:Ā 39A High St, Hastings TN34 3ER
It isnāt often you stumble across an independent cinema, and as we watched people ascending the staircase of The Electric Palace, curiosity piqued us. We followed the crowd, eager to see the auditorium. Our curiosity was abruptly interrupted by a nearby voice, “Excuse me.” Disappointed but undeterred, we accepted the leaflet with “coming soon” listings, tried our luck at having a peek into the room but lost, and vowed to return for a screening.
The Electric Palace is an independent cinema and arts venue that occupies a part of the Grade II listed c.1820 Old Hastings Club building, renowned for its diverse programming of films and engaging events, with a wide range of films, local filmmakersā work, even extending beyond to live music, comedy, and more.
Interestingly, although the cinema gave the sense of vintage charm, it was only founded in 2002. Research revealed the source of this impression: beautiful 1930s golden velvet seats within!
Check out their website to see what’s on, and be sure to include a visit to the Electric Palace in your next trip to Hastings.
A.G. Hendy & Co Home Store
š LOCATION:Ā 36 High Street, Hastings, East Sussex TN34 3ER
Stopping in front of A.G. Hendy & Co Home Store, it beckoned me to explore!
Before its transformation into a charming home store, the Grade II listed 18th-century building served various purposes, including a soda-bottling shop, a saddlery, tailors, confectionist, restaurant, bistro and more. Decades of alterations had obscured its original character, however, Alastair Hendy embarked on a meticulous three-and-a-half-year restoration journey. Employing skilled craftsmen to restore the building to its former glory, salvaged materials and traditional techniques were used to bring it back to its former glory.
Exploring inside feels like going back in time, stocked with new and vintage hardware. The store offers a range of goods, from practical brooms and brushes to elegant vintage tableware and antique furniture.
Courthouse Records
š LOCATION:Ā Courthouse St, Hastings TN34 3AU
Can you resist the pull of an old-style record shop? There’s something undeniably charming about the ritual of browsing through a record store. The thrill of the hunt, the uncertainty of each selection, and the unique opportunity to spin a record on the spot and hear it come to life ā these are experiences that simply can’t be replicated digitally.
That’s why Courthouse Records deserves its own spotlight on our blog. It’s a true feel-good visit, a reminder of the enduring magic of vinyl.
Pelican Diner
š LOCATION:Ā 20 East Parade, Hastings, TN34 3AL
Painted in classic seaside colors of white and blue, the Pelican Diner stands out with its peculiarly rounded end. Previously known as Coleman’s Beer House, then the Mariner’s Home, the small pub was renamed Pelican in the 1890s. It ceased trading as a pub in the 1930s.
Today, the Pelican Diner is a beloved local spot known for its delicious food and friendly atmosphere, having reopened its doors as a diner in 2012.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious meal or simply admire its architecture, the Pelican Diner is well worth a stop on your next visit to Hastings.
Butlerās Famed Emporium
š LOCATION:Ā 70 George Street, Hastings, TN34 3EE
Butler’s Emporium occupies a historic building at 70 George Street, with roots as a hardware store and ironmongery. Established around 1832 as Penfolds Hardware Store, it later transitioned to Butler’s Emporium in 1888.
Sadly, a fire that destroyed the neighbouring building and some of the emporium in 1911 left a lasting mark, creating “Butler’s Gap,” a unique open space within the heart of the town.
The building retains its original charm, featuring high ceilings and perfectly imperfect original furniture, fixtures, and display units. Historical photos reveal the evolution of its signage, from vibrant red and yellow to blue and yellow, before settling on the current brown.
While the exact date of the store’s transition from hardware to its current purpose is uncertain, online sources suggest a possible closure in 1995. Today, Butler’s Emporium is run by Rose, who opened her shop in 2010, offering a selection of vintage and antique items, homewares, jewellery, clothing, and more.
Explore Further: Discover Your Own Hastings Gems
This is just a glimpse into the many unique shops and hidden gems Hastings has to offer. I encourage you to explore the historic buildings in Hastings for yourself, wander around the streets to discover your own favourites. Start your exploration to discover the unique character that makes this town so special now. And, when you’re done, come back and share your discoveries in the comments below!
Already discovered Hastings for yourself? What are you waiting for, let us know what your favourites were too.
Happy exploring!