Everything that you see is the genuine article or a replica of a crime related artefact from real historical events from Jack the Ripper to The Kray Twins.
1 / 10

True Crime Museum

4.4
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

Explore chilling true crime cases, from notorious serial killers to historical UK offenses, in an atmospheric museum set within caves.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Everything that you see is the genuine article or a replica of a crime related artefact from real historical events from Jack the Ripper to The Kray Twins.

True Crime Museum

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore chilling true crime cases, from notorious serial killers to historical UK offenses, in an atmospheric museum set within caves.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A small but interesting experience with a side of creepy at this museum. Definitely a go see place for any true crime aficionado."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Snap a Mugshot

Don't miss the interactive mugshot wall for a fun souvenir photo!

⏳ Not a Full Day Trip

The museum is engaging but can be explored in a couple of hours.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Infamous Criminal Exhibits

Infamous Criminal Exhibits

Main exhibition halls

Explore detailed displays on serial killers, gangsters, and notorious UK crimes. See original artifacts that bring history to life.

Mugshot Wall

Mugshot Wall

Interactive area

Step into the shoes of a suspect and capture your own mugshot. A fun, interactive element for visitors of all ages .

TikTok
Atmospheric Caves

Atmospheric Caves

Museum interior

Experience the unique ambiance as parts of the museum are set within atmospheric caves, adding to the eerie feel .

Reddit
Bonnie and Clyde's Death Hats

Bonnie and Clyde's Death Hats

Special display

See the actual hats worn by Bonnie and Clyde when they were gunned down, complete with bullet holes .

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Dark Side

Dive into the chilling world of true crime at this unique museum. Prepare for a journey through infamous cases and the evolution of crime-solving. It's a must-visit for enthusiasts, but consider if the darker themes are suitable for younger visitors.TikTok

Location & Logistics

Nestled by the beach in Hastings, the museum is easily accessible. Parking is available nearby, and tickets can be purchased online or at the reception. Plan for a visit that's not too long, but packed with fascinating exhibits.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We could take loads of these pics. #1066 #truecrimemuseum #hastings #museum #truecrime #eastsussex #truecrimemuseumhastings #attractions
@truecrimemuseum
372.4K likes • 1.7M views

📸 Snap a Mugshot

Don't miss the interactive mugshot wall for a fun souvenir photo! TikTok

⏳ Not a Full Day Trip

The museum is engaging but can be explored in a couple of hours. Reddit

When you visit why don’t you take a picture at our mugshot wall. #1066country #1066 #hastings #truecrimemuseum
@truecrimemuseum
145.9K likes • 703.5K views
Did you know that we have a #truecrime museum? It features curated exhibits on Sideshow culture, Cults, Serial Killers, art from David Huggins, and an exhibit specifically about John Wayne Gacy's time on death row featuring many of his paintings. If you want to learn more about the darker and just plain bizarre side of history stop by and take a tour! . . . #gravefacechicago #gravefacemuseum #side...
graveface_chicago
465 likes • 6.6K views

🚗 Parking Nearby

Carlisle Parade Car Park is a short walk away. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

All ages are welcome, with interactive elements for younger visitors. TikTokInstagram

Bonnie and Clyde death hats and movie prop car. #bonnieandclyde #truecrime #museum
freyzelproductions
17.4K likes • 287.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Snap a Mugshot

Don't miss the interactive mugshot wall for a fun souvenir photo! TikTok

⏳ Not a Full Day Trip

The museum is engaging but can be explored in a couple of hours. Reddit

🚗 Parking Nearby

Carlisle Parade Car Park is a short walk away. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Friendly

All ages are welcome, with interactive elements for younger visitors. TikTokInstagram

💡 True Crime Fanatic?

If you're deeply into true crime, you might already know much of the info. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the True Crime Museum in Hastings to be an engaging and atmospheric experience, particularly for true crime enthusiasts. The exhibits are detailed, covering a range of notorious cases and the evolution of crime-solving. While some find it a bit pricey for the duration, most appreciate the unique setting within caves and the interactive elements.

"Visited the museum while having some jobs in Hastings. The museum is very easy to find situated right next to the beach and just a couple minutes walk from Hastings Pier. If you're coming with your car closest parking is Carlisle Parade Car Park, 5 minutes walk from the museum. The staff is nice, tickets can be bought online or reception. Very interesting collection regarding how police and crime solving worked in the past. You can see how much criminology system has evolved over time. You can also read articles about past criminals in the UK. You get surprised of what of these criminals did and how they did their crimes and how police managed to catch them. Recommend the museum for those into crime reading, documentaries, movies, but also who are just curious. Worth the time."

Daniel AM

"The true crime museum offered an engaging and informative experience. The exhibits provided comprehensive details on serial killers, UK-based offenses such as football hooliganism and cannabis-related crimes, and prominent crime lords. I would recommend a visit to this museum. Wheelchair-friendly parking available on the side roads."

Dorothea

"A small but interesting experience with a side of creepy at this museum. Definitely a go see place for any true crime aficionado. Lot of interesting exhibits. Maybe a touch expensive if not a true fan."

Garry Whitmore (Dagdabear)

What People Like

Atmospheric cave setting
Detailed exhibits
Interactive mugshot wall

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Short duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The True Crime Museum is located in Hastings, on the southeast coast of England, about an hour and a half from London.TikTok It's easily found next to the beach and a short walk from Hastings Pier.Reddit If you're driving, the closest parking is Carlisle Parade Car Park, about a 5-minute walk away.Reddit

Yes, the closest parking is Carlisle Parade Car Park, which is just a 5-minute walk from the museum.Reddit Wheelchair-friendly parking is also available on the side roads.Reddit

Hastings has good transport links. You can reach Hastings by train from London, and the museum is a short walk from the town center and pier, making it accessible via public transport.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but some visitors have noted it might be a touch expensive if you're not a huge true crime fan, with one review mentioning over £10.Reddit Tickets can be purchased online or at the reception.Reddit

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information. TikTok videos from the museum suggest they are open and invite everybody in.TikTok

Yes, the museum is open to all ages.TikTok However, they recommend that parents use their discretion for children under 13, as the content is true crime-related.TikTok Instagram reels also highlight family-friendly aspects like an interactive crime lab.Instagram

While tickets can be bought at reception, booking online in advance is often recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak times.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Expect a range of exhibits covering serial killers, gangsters, UK-based offenses like football hooliganism, and crime lords.Reddit You'll find displays of forensic evidence and learn about the evolution of crime-solving.Reddit Some exhibits are housed within atmospheric caves.Reddit

Yes, the museum offers interactive elements. Visitors can take photos at the mugshot wall TikTok and there are family-friendly activities like an interactive crime lab and fingerprinting fun.Instagram

Most visitors find the museum to be an interesting but not overly long experience. One review mentioned it didn't take that long to get around,Reddit suggesting it can be explored in a couple of hours.

Some true crime museums, like Graveface Museum in Chicago, offer docents for guided tours.Instagram It's worth checking if the Hastings location provides similar services for a more in-depth experience.

The museum is described as having a spooky and atmospheric feel, partly due to its location within caves.TikTokReddit The layout is designed to be immersive for visitors.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there doesn't seem to be an on-site cafe at the True Crime Museum in Hastings.Reddit Visitors are advised to explore the nearby beach and pier areas for dining options, which include fish and chips.Reddit

Being located by the beach in Hastings, there are numerous food options nearby. You can find classic seaside fare like fish and chips, and enjoy an English breakfast in the town.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in many museum exhibits, and TikTok videos show visitors taking pictures, especially at the mugshot wall.TikTok However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific 'no photography' signs in certain areas.

The mugshot wall is a popular spot for photos.TikTok The atmospheric cave settings also offer unique photographic opportunities. Some reels showcase specific artifacts like Bonnie and Clyde's death hats.Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The True Crime Museum welcomes families and offers interactive elements to keep younger visitors engaged.TikTokInstagram While the subject matter is true crime, parents can use their discretion for children under 13.TikTok Look out for the interactive crime lab and fingerprinting activities Instagram that make learning fun and memorable. It's a unique way to explore history together, sparking curiosity and conversation.

🕵️ True Crime Aficionados

For dedicated true crime fans, this museum offers a deep dive into notorious cases, including UK-specific offenses and infamous criminals.Reddit You'll find detailed exhibits on serial killers and crime lords, with some original artifacts adding to the authenticity.Reddit Be aware that if you're already well-versed in true crime, you might find some of the information familiar.Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers from London

The True Crime Museum is an excellent option for a day trip from London, being only about an hour and a half away by train.TikTok Combine your visit with a stroll along the beach, explore Hastings Pier, and enjoy some classic seaside fish and chips.Reddit It offers a unique and engaging experience that breaks from the usual city sightseeing.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Evolution of Crime Solving

The True Crime Museum in Hastings offers a fascinating glimpse into how law enforcement and crime-solving have evolved over time. Visitors can explore exhibits that detail past police methods and the development of criminology.Reddit This journey through history highlights the advancements made in forensic science and investigative techniques, providing context to the infamous cases presented.

From early fingerprinting methods to more modern forensic analysis, the museum showcases the challenges faced by investigators in different eras. It's a stark reminder of how far the justice system has come, making the stories of past crimes even more impactful. The displays aim to educate and inform, offering a unique perspective on the darker side of history and the persistent efforts to bring perpetrators to justice.Reddit

Social media content often focuses on specific artifacts and the chilling stories behind them, but the underlying theme of progress in crime detection is a key takeaway. It’s not just about the crimes themselves, but also about the human ingenuity and dedication that went into solving them.TikTok

Family Fun in the Face of Fear

Contrary to what the name might suggest, the True Crime Museum is surprisingly welcoming to families. While the subject matter is inherently dark, the museum has incorporated interactive elements to engage younger visitors and make the experience accessible to all ages.TikTokInstagram This thoughtful approach ensures that families can explore the exhibits together, with parental guidance for younger children.TikTok

Instagram reels highlight specific family-friendly features, such as an interactive crime lab, fingerprinting activities, and even photo opportunities with police motorbikes.Instagram These elements transform a potentially somber visit into an engaging educational adventure. The museum's commitment to being an 'attraction for everyone' is evident in these thoughtful additions, making it a unique outing for families interested in history and mystery.Instagram

TikTok videos also confirm that the museum is open to everyone,TikTok reinforcing the idea that while the themes are serious, the experience is designed to be inclusive. It’s a chance for families to learn about history in a memorable and interactive way, sparking curiosity and discussion.

Hastings: More Than Just True Crime

While the True Crime Museum is a significant draw, Hastings itself offers a charming seaside experience. Located on the southeast coast, it's a town rich in history and natural beauty.TikTok Visitors often combine their museum visit with exploring the iconic Hastings Pier, enjoying classic fish and chips, or taking in the stunning Seven Sisters chalk cliffs.Reddit

The town's proximity to London, about an hour and a half away, makes it an accessible day trip or weekend getaway.TikTok The museum's location right by the beach further enhances its appeal, allowing visitors to easily transition from exploring historical crimes to enjoying the coastal atmosphere.Reddit

For those planning a trip, consider incorporating other local attractions like Battle Abbey or simply enjoying a traditional English breakfast.Reddit Hastings provides a diverse range of activities, ensuring a well-rounded visit beyond the museum's intriguing exhibits.

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