Discover sea creatures, mini golf, seaside fun and family-friendly food for less this summer.
Looking for an affordable family day out in East Sussex this summer? Hastings offers the perfect mix of family attractions, traditional seaside fun and great value activities, all within easy reach of the bus stop.
With children aged 5-15 travelling free* on Stagecoach South East buses in Kent and East Sussex (excluding Brighton) throughout August and savings available at local attractions as part of Great British Summer Savings, it's easy to enjoy a full day out without worrying about fuel or parking costs. From coming face-to-face with sharks to enjoying a round of miniature golf and relaxing on the beach, Hastings is packed with activities younger children will love.
🚌Start Your Day Out by Bus
Recommended Services
Route 100
Route 101
Route 321
All of these services stop at The Stade, putting you within easy walking distance of the day's attractions.
Travelling from Eastbourne or Bexhill?
The 99 provides direct links into Hastings and operates up to every 30 minutes.
You can either:
- Travel to Hastings Railway Station and take a 20-minute walk to the seafront before following the promenade to the day's attractions, or
- Connect onto local services serving The Stade
Duration
Full day (approximately 10:00am-5:30pm)
Recommended Ticket
A Hastings DayRider (£6.30 for adults) offers unlimited bus travel in Hastings throughout the day, making it easy to explore the town without worrying about multiple fares. See the areas the Hastings DayRider covers here. If you're travelling from outside of Hastings, a South East DayRider (£9.30 for adults) may offer you the best value, especially if you plan to hop on and off different services throughout the day. If you're just going from one stop to another, a £3 single would work out your cheapest option.
Children aged 5-15 travel free* on Stagecoach South East buses in Kent & East Sussex (excluding Brighton) throughout August, helping families save even more this summer.
⚓10:00am - Arrive at The Stade
Catch your chosen service and hop off at The Stade.
Walking Directions
From The Stade bus stop, head along the seafront towards Hastings Aquarium.
Walking Time
Approximately 5 minutes.
One of the best things about Hastings is how compact it is. Once you've arrived, you can spend the rest of the day exploring on foot without needing additional transport.
Home to sharks, rays, tropical fish and fascinating marine life, it's a great attraction for younger children and a perfect way to start the day before heading outdoors.
Book online and enjoy 10% off tickets through the Great British Summer Savings scheme.
Suggested Time
10:15am-12:00pm
⛵12:00pm - Explore The Stade
After the aquarium, take a stroll around one of Hastings' most recognisable locations.
Walking Directions
Leave the aquarium and return towards The Stade.
Walking Time
Approximately 5 minutes.
Children will love spotting the fishing boats and traditional black net huts that line the seafront, while grown-ups can enjoy the coastal views and maritime atmosphere. It's also a great spot for family photos before lunch.
Suggested Time
12:00pm-12:45pm
Take a break from exploring and enjoy lunch at Pelican Diner.
Walking Directions
Pelican Diner is located close to The Stade and seafront attractions.
Walking Time
Approximately 1 minute.
With burgers, lighter bites and options for younger diners, it's a great choice for families looking to refuel before the afternoon's activities.
Suggested Time
12:45pm-2:00pm
After lunch, it's time for a little family competition.
Walking Directions
Head along the promenade towards Hastings Miniature Golf.
Walking Time
Approximately 5 minutes
Located right on Hastings seafront, Hastings Miniature Golf is one of the town's most popular attractions and offers fun for all ages.
Whether it's parents versus children or siblings battling it out for bragging rights, it's a great way to spend an afternoon together.
Suggested Time
2:00pm-3:30pm
🌊3:30pm - Beach Time and Seaside Fun
After your match, slow the pace down and enjoy the rest of the afternoon by the sea.
With the day's main attractions already ticked off, this is the perfect opportunity to enjoy traditional seaside fun together.
Suggested Time
3:30pm-4:30pm
🍦4:30pm - Ice Cream and Old Town Wander
Before heading home, take a stroll through Hastings Old Town.
Walking Directions
Follow the seafront towards the Old Town.
Walking Time
Approximately 6 minutes.
Packed with colourful building, independent shops and seaside character, it's a lovely place to enjoy an ice cream or sweet treat before finishing your day.
Suggested Time
4:30pm-5:15pm
🚌5:30pm - Journey Home
Head back to The Stade bus stop for your journey home.
If you're returning via the 99, continue back to Hastings Railway Station and connect with your onward service.
After a day packed with marine life, mini golf and seaside memories, hop back on the bus and relax on the journey home.
Suggested Timetable
*exclusions apply. Visit www.stagecoachbus.com/promos-and-offers/national/kids-go-free for details.