Best Pubs in Hastings Old Town

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If you’re exploring Hastings Old Town, one of the best ways to experience local life is by dropping into its pubs. With centuries of history, welcome atmospheres, excellent ales and hearty food, the watering holes here offer something for every visitor — from classic English pubs to lively music‑friendly spots. Here’s our guide to the top pubs worth checking out on your trip.

🍻 First In Last Out (FILO)

⭐ 4.7 – Lively, house-brewed ales, friendly vibe.
Start your crawl at FILO, one of Hastings most celebrated boozers. This family-run freehouse has its own microbrewery. Enjoy freshly brewed house ales and classic pub grub. Regular live music adds to its lively charm. National guides even named it one of the best pubs in East Sussex.

🍺 Ye Olde Pumphouse

⭐ 4.5 – Historic, Georgian-era charm, welcoming atmosphere.
On George Street, the Pumphouse combines local charm with great value. Ideal for a relaxed pint or sociable lunch. Plenty of locals and visitors make it a must-stop on your Old Town tour.

🍖 Anchor Inn

⭐ 4.5 – Traditional, 17th-century, hearty roasts, cosy fireplace.
One of the town’s oldest pubs, the Anchor Inn dates back to the 17th century. Its low ceilings and warming fireplace add character. Enjoy classic roasts or locally caught fish after a seafront stroll.

🥧 Albion

⭐ 4.5 – Stylish, blends classic charm with modern gastropub fare.
A historic pub with a contemporary twist. Expect local cask ales, a friendly crowd and gastropub favourites. The Albion is perfect for pies and traditional dishes.

👑 The Crown

⭐ 4.6 – Award-winning, modern British cuisine, local ales.
Tucked on All Saints Street, The Crown is an independent, family-run freehouse. It’s featured in The Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Pubs in England. National awards include The Observer’s Best Place to Drink in the UK.

🎶 Royal Standard

⭐ 4.5 – Social, beach-adjacent, live entertainment.
Close to the beach, the Royal Standard hosts live events and open-mic nights. Its garden is perfect in fine weather. Traditional ales and comfort food complete the lively atmosphere.

🌊 Hastings Arms

⭐ 4.5 – Characterful, smuggling-era charm, hearty pub food.
Hidden on George Street, Hastings Arms offers curry nights, tapas and a notable spirit selection. Its historic charm and friendly crowd make it ideal for lunch or an evening pint.

🐟 The Dolphin Inn

⭐ 4.6 – Seaside, fresh seafood, friendly historic vibes.
On Rock-a-Nore Road, the Dolphin pairs excellent ale with fresh local seafood. Perfect for lunch or an afternoon pint after a beach stroll. A favourite among locals and tourists alike.

🍻 Lord Nelson Public House

⭐ 4.4 – Local, traditional charm, fishing-community links.
A small, old-world pub with strong ties to Hastings fishing community. Lord Nelson is great for a quiet pint or to mingle with locals.

🎵 The Jenny Lind Inn

⭐ 4.4 – Musical, live performances, real ales.
Famous for live music and real ales, Jenny Lind Inn has a cosy interior and welcoming garden. One of the liveliest pubs in the Old Town.

🦌 The Stag Inn

⭐ 4.7 – Medieval charm, open fires, local ales, folk music.

One of the most atmospheric pubs in Hastings Old Town, The Stag Inn dates back to the 16th century and is packed with character — think timber beams, candlelit corners and roaring fires.

🍷 Tips for Pub‑Hopping in Hastings Old Town

Try local ales: Many pubs serve Sussex beers and rotating cask selections.
Check the events: Gigs, quizzes, open mic nights and special food nights are common — especially at the FILO and Royal Standard.
Book ahead on weekends: Popular pubs like the Anchor and Albion can fill up fast, especially for Sunday roasts.

Map of Hastings Old Town Pubs – Top Pubs to Visit

Choose Apollo Guest House For Accomodation

At the Apollo Guest House, you’ll have easy access to all the best that Hastings has to offer, thanks to its prime location. So if you’re looking for comfortable accommodation in the heart of this beautiful coastal town, look no further than the Apollo Guest House.