We’re a couple of weeks into the school summer holidays, which usually means one of two things. Either you’re smoothly ticking through your family bucket list, or the “I’m booored” phase has begun.
If it’s the second one, here are a few of our favourite family days out across Hastings, Battle, Rye and beyond. Free, paid, sunny days, drizzly days. A bit of everything.
In and around Hastings
Hastings Old Town is worth an afternoon on its own. Wind your way through the little back streets, watch the fishing boats being winched up onto The Stade, then take the East Hill Cliff Railway up for some of the best views on the south coast. Or stay on the seafront and visit the arcades. Yes, they are cheesy, but the 2p machines are always a winner for entertainment
Another easy win with kids of any age is crazy golf on Hastings seafront. With 3 courses to play, there is something for all.
If you enjoy the great outdoors and scenic walks, Hastings Country Park, just along the coast, is a beautiful (and completely free) place to walk off a picnic.
In and around Battle
1066 Country wouldn’t be quite the same without a visit to Battle Abbey. Children love the audio guides, and the battlefield itself never fails to spark young imaginations. During the holiday, they often have activities for children of all ages, including trails, live talks and activities to try. Bonus tip – Follow it up with an ice cream on Battle High Street and a wander through the lovely independent shops.
In and around Rye
Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is a hidden treasure. Free, flat, family-friendly, and full of birds and wildflowers whatever the season. Bring binoculars if you have them. The visitor centre often has free activities during the holidays for kids too!
Rye itself is worth an afternoon wander for the cobbled streets, the famous Mermaid Street, and an ice cream in the square. And if you’re chasing a proper beach day, Camber Sands is only a few minutes down the road (although head there early as it gets very busy!)
In and around Tenterden and Northiam
Tenterden has the Kent & East Sussex Railway right in its centre. A proper steam train experience that’s always a hit with children of all ages. Just up the road in Northiam, Great Dixter’s gardens are a lovely half-day out, especially if you have any budding botanists in the family.
Free ideas for when the wallet needs a rest
Not every day out has to cost. A morning stroll along Bexhill seafront, a woodland walk through one of the many local woods, or an afternoon at your local park with a football and a picnic. These are often the days the kids remember longest.
From all of us at Rush Witt & Wilson, we hope you and the family are enjoying a wonderful summer across Hastings, Battle, Rye, Bexhill and everywhere in between. And if you happen to spot a “For Sale” sign that catches your eye while you’re out and about well, you know where we are.
