
Hastings Net Shops
Iconic black wooden Net Shops on The Stade, a historic symbol of Hastings' fishing heritage, offering fresh seafood.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

Hastings Net Shops
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic black wooden Net Shops on The Stade, a historic symbol of Hastings' fishing heritage, offering fresh seafood.
"Incredibly fresh seafood and amazing value, with a very satisfying maritime appetizer experience.
"
🚶♂️ Explore the narrow gaps
Squeeze between the towering Net Sheds for a unique perspective and photo opportunities.
🦞 Taste the local catch
Don't miss the incredibly fresh and affordable seafood, especially oysters and dressed crab.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Net Shops
The Stade, Hastings Old Town
Iconic tall, black wooden sheds lining the seafront, a testament to Hastings' enduring fishing legacy.

Fresh Seafood Stalls
Near the Net Shops
Indulge in incredibly fresh oysters, cockles, whelks, and dressed crab directly from local fishermen.

The Stade Beach
Hastings seafront
Enjoy the lively atmosphere and sea views from this historic pebble beach, a hub of local activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Maritime Charm
Savor the Fresh Catch
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♂️ Explore the narrow gaps
Squeeze between the towering Net Sheds for a unique perspective and photo opportunities.
🦞 Taste the local catch
Don't miss the incredibly fresh and affordable seafood, especially oysters and dressed crab.
📸 Capture the history
The black wooden structures offer a striking visual against the sea and sky.
💰 Great value seafood
Enjoy delicious maritime appetizers at surprisingly cheap prices, especially oysters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♂️ Explore the narrow gaps
Squeeze between the towering Net Sheds for a unique perspective and photo opportunities.
🦞 Taste the local catch
Don't miss the incredibly fresh and affordable seafood, especially oysters and dressed crab.
📸 Capture the history
The black wooden structures offer a striking visual against the sea and sky.
💰 Great value seafood
Enjoy delicious maritime appetizers at surprisingly cheap prices, especially oysters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Hastings Net Shops for their historic charm and the incredibly fresh, affordable seafood available from the stalls. The unique atmosphere and connection to local fishing heritage are major draws, offering a genuine taste of seaside life. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak times and the pebble beach environment.
"This public facing counter is chokeful or seafood of all different kinds and persuasions, ready to be eaten. They had some very cheap options (cheapest oysters I have seen anywhere to be honest) and provide condiments to customise your order. Their cockles were good but their whelks were the softest I have tried anywhere. Give it a go if you want a maritime appetizer!"
Rafael Carrascosa Marzo
"Great for an oyster pit stop, super fresh tasting and amazing value, there's also something very satisfying in eating oysters as a street food, if they had a shallotte vinaigrette it would be heaven"
Amon Jafarbay
"Seafood was very fresh. Dressed crab was delicious. I also liked the whelks much. Happy to support the local fishing this way"
Han Chengyu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hastings Net Shops are located on The Stade, a prominent area in Hastings Old Town. You can easily reach them by walking from the town center or by taking local bus services that stop nearby. If you're arriving by car, there are several car parks in the vicinity, though they can get busy during peak times.
Yes, there are several car parks available near the Hastings Net Shops, including the Rock-a-Nore car park. However, it's advisable to check parking availability and prices in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, as they can fill up quickly.
Hastings train station is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Net Shops. The walk takes you through the town and towards the seafront, offering a pleasant introduction to Hastings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the area with the Hastings Net Shops is free as it's an open public space along the seafront. You only pay if you choose to purchase seafood from the stalls or visit nearby attractions like the Fishermen's Museum.
The Net Shops themselves are historic structures and are always accessible from the outside. The seafood stalls operating nearby typically open daily, but their hours can vary, especially outside of peak tourist season. It's best to check locally or visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
There are no entrance fees to wander around the Hastings Net Shops and The Stade. It's a public promenade and beach area. Costs would only apply if you decide to buy food or visit any adjacent museums or attractions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic architecture of the Net Shops, enjoy fresh seafood from the local stalls, walk along the beach, and soak in the maritime atmosphere. It's a great spot for photography and experiencing Hastings' fishing heritage.
Absolutely! The tall, dark wooden Net Shops create a dramatic and unique visual against the sea and sky, making them a popular subject for photographers.
Public restrooms are generally available along the seafront in Hastings, including near The Stade area. You may need to walk a short distance to find them, but they are usually well-signposted.
While the primary focus is fresh seafood and the historic structures, you might find small local craft stalls or shops in the vicinity of the Old Town selling maritime-themed souvenirs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a variety of incredibly fresh seafood, including oysters, cockles, whelks, and dressed crab. Many visitors highlight the affordability and quality of these maritime appetizers.
Yes, reviews consistently mention that the seafood, particularly oysters, is very affordable and offers great value for money. It's a fantastic way to enjoy fresh local produce.
Yes, the seafood stalls are set up for you to enjoy your purchase as a quick bite or street food right there by the beach. It's a perfect spot for a maritime appetizer while taking in the sea air.
The focus at the Net Shops is primarily on fresh seafood. While there might be some basic accompaniments, dedicated vegetarian or vegan options are unlikely to be found directly at these traditional fishing stalls.
📸 📸 Photography
The Net Shops themselves, with their distinctive black timber, offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Try capturing them from different angles, especially during golden hour, or include the sea and beach in your shots.
Early mornings or late afternoons (golden hour) can provide beautiful light for photographing the Net Shops and the surrounding beach. Weekday mornings also offer fewer people for unobstructed shots.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography in public areas like The Stade. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Pack beach-friendly shoes as it's a pebble beach. While there aren't specific play areas right at the Net Shops, the wider seafront offers plenty of space. The seafood stalls are a great, quick way to grab a bite, but be mindful of younger children with shells and bones.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Aim for golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the best light. Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed views. Experiment with black and white photography to emphasize the textures and shapes of the Net Shops.
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips: Prioritize eating at the seafood stalls for a cheap and authentic meal. Pack your own water bottle and snacks to save on additional costs. Consider walking from the train station to save on local transport fares.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Legacy of the Net Shops
Walking amongst the Net Shops offers a unique sensory experience. The squeezing between the narrow gaps between the towering structures creates a feeling of stepping back in time. The scent of the sea, the calls of the gulls, and the sight of fishing boats bobbing in the water all contribute to the authentic atmosphere. Many artists, like Ben Fenton, have been inspired by the stark beauty of these structures, capturing their essence in paintings. It's a place where history is not just preserved but actively lived, offering visitors a tangible connection to Hastings' seafaring past.
For visitors, the Net Shops are more than just historical buildings; they are a vibrant part of the working seafront. Adjacent to the shops, you'll find bustling seafood stalls where local fishermen sell their daily catch. This proximity allows visitors to not only appreciate the history but also to directly support the local fishing industry by enjoying incredibly fresh seafood. The experience of eating oysters or dressed crab with the sound of the waves as your soundtrack is a quintessential Hastings moment.
A Culinary Journey at The Stade
Enjoying a 'maritime appetizer' from these stalls is a quintessential Hastings experience. The opportunity to eat street food directly by the sea, with the historic Net Shops as a backdrop, adds to the appeal. While simple condiments are usually provided, the quality of the seafood speaks for itself. For oyster enthusiasts, the chance to sample them at such accessible prices is a significant highlight. It's a perfect way to sample local flavors and support the hardworking fishing community.
When visiting, be prepared for a casual, open-air dining experience. The focus is on the quality and freshness of the seafood, rather than elaborate restaurant settings. This makes it an ideal stop for a quick, delicious, and authentic taste of the coast. Remember to check the operating hours of the stalls, as they can vary, but generally, you'll find them active during daylight hours, especially on weekends.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit