Old Town Bolthole, Hastings

About this property

Old Town Bolthole is real romantic gem in the heart of Hastings Old Town, perfect for exploring all the town has to offer.

To reach Old Town Bolthole, you have to walk through a narrow twitten that runs between the properties. I’m sure in days gone by, it would have been used by smugglers to hide and move contraband. Through the twitten and turn right then head up the stairs, the bottom stone steps thought to be used as mounting stones for climbing on to your horse back in the day.

You enter the cottage into the kitchen, which is quaint, quirky and perfectly formed. Although small, there is a two ring hob and a combination oven/microwave provided should you wish to stay in and cook. From the kitchen you head into the lounge, with its woodburning stove, Freeview TV and DVD, WiFi and comfy armchairs. A dining table and chairs are positioned in front of the window, the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of East Cliff Hill.

Head up the stairs and you have your modern shower room and a cosy bedroom with White Company bed linen and towels to provide that touch of luxury.

A welcome basket is provided from Penbuckles Deli in the high street and gets your holiday off to a pleasant start. If you book a stay in the cottage, you have everything on your doorstep, from lovely delis, restaurants and cafes, so no need to cook if you do not wish to.

A stay in the Old Town Bolthole is a chance to relax and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the working week. Easy to reach by road or train, so the perfect weekend retreat.

As the property was built back in the 1400’s, it does have some quaint traits - narrow, steep staircase and low ceilings in places, so care is needed in order to avoid bumping heads, but I’m sure you will agree it's all worth it, to stay in such a unique property in the heart of Hastings Old Town.

Hastings and beyond

Located on the bustling, thriving High Street you are spoilt for choice when staying in the Old Town Bolthole. The Old Town is an eclectic mix of bric-a-brac shops, galleries, independent boutiques, restaurants, pubs and coffee shops. It is hard to pass the window of the award winning Judges Bakery, without being tempted to go in, you have been warned. If you are looking for evening entertainment then take in a film at the Electric Palace Cinema, an independent community based cinema which aims to bring you a wide choice of alternative films and film related events. Sign up for a Foyle’s War trail and visit all the locations used in the Old Town for the popular TV series. Looking to explore the Country Park then why not take the funicular up to the top or, if feeling fit, the many steps. The view is worth the effort and you can walk for miles taking in the cliff views. Hastings Pier is located a pleasant walk along the seafront and throughout the year holds music events, so worth seeing if there is something that takes your fancy and tickets sell fast. The town is famous for the biggest fishing fleet in Europe and much of the tradition has been kept. The net drying huts and fishing fleet can be found on the beach today, along with the many fresh fish stalls. The Jerwood Gallery is found close by and The Shipwreck and Coastal Heritage Museum is worth a visit.

You are of course in 1066 Country and with that comes, Castles, National Trust Gardens and Grand Houses, plenty to visit during your stay but too many for me to list.

Places to visit

Hastings Castle

Jerwood Gallery

De La Warr Pavillion — Bexhill

Hastings Country Park

What’s on

Jack in the Green — May bank holiday

Hastings Old Town Carnival — August

Hastings Wine and Seafood Festival — September

Hastings Bonfire Celebrations — October/November

Local shop — 50 yds

Nearest supermarket — 1/4 mile

Nearest restaurant — 50 yds

Local pub — 25 yds

Mainline rail service 1.5 miles — Hastings for services to Rye, Brighton, Ashford and London

Gatwick Airport — 50 miles

Channel Tunnel Folkestone — 40 miles