Hastings Contemporary
⭐ Major Art Gallery
Hastings Contemporary is a major contemporary art gallery on Rock-a-Nore Road at the Stade in Hastings Old Town. The gallery presents a changing programme of exhibitions by nationally and internationally recognised artists, alongside events, educational activities and displays.
The gallery also has views across the fishing beach and English Channel, making it an interesting stop for both art lovers and visitors exploring Hastings Old Town. It is open Wednesday to Sunday and bank holidays, with exhibitions generally running from 11am to 5pm.
Best for: contemporary art, major exhibitions, cultural attractions, sea views
Hastings Museum and Art Gallery
⭐ Museum & Art Gallery
Hastings Museum and Art Gallery is located at John’s Place, Bohemia Road, Hastings. It combines art collections with local history, natural history and cultural exhibitions. The museum features permanent displays alongside temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Its collections include fine art, decorative arts and material connected to the history of Hastings and East Sussex.
For a more detailed guide, see our Hastings Museum and Art Gallery article.
Best for: local history, family visits, museum collections
Project Art Works
⭐ Contemporary & Inclusive Art
Project Art Works is a Hastings-based arts organisation working with artists with learning disabilities and complex support needs. Its work can be experienced at two public-facing locations in Hastings.
The main Project Art Works studios at Braybrooke Terrace, Hastings are open to visitors for exhibitions, Open Studios and special events. The programme gives visitors the opportunity to see artists’ work and experience the creative environment.
Project Art Works In Residence, at 12 Claremont, Hastings, is a separate public gallery, event space and shop in the town centre. It hosts exhibitions and other creative activities throughout the year.
Best for: contemporary art, inclusive arts, exhibitions, local creative projects
Rebel Gallery
⭐ Independent Art Gallery
Located on George Street in Hastings Old Town, Rebel Gallery showcases contemporary artwork from both emerging and established artists. Exhibitions regularly feature painting, photography, printmaking and mixed media.
The gallery has become a popular destination for visitors interested in discovering independent contemporary art and local creative talent.
Best for: contemporary art, independent exhibitions, local artists
Gallery 53
⭐ Independent Art Gallery
Gallery 53 is a family-run gallery and studio in Hastings Old Town, showcasing paintings by local artists Jane Edmonds and Lisa Giles. Their work includes Hastings Old Town street scenes, countryside views and beach scenes, with much of the artwork painted in oils. The gallery also works across other mediums for abstract pieces and undertakes portrait and pet portrait commissions.
Best for: Hastings scenes, oil paintings, local artists, portraits and pet portraits
PiP's Hastings
⭐ Community Art Gallery
Located on George Street in Hastings Old Town, PiP’s Hastings is a community-run art gallery showcasing affordable artwork, prints, crafts and handmade items created by local East Sussex artists. The gallery provides a welcoming space for regional artists to exhibit and sell their work, with a regularly changing selection of paintings, ceramics, textiles, jewellery and other creative pieces.
Situated in the heart of Hastings Old Town, PiP’s Hastings is a great place to discover local artistic talent while exploring the area’s independent shops and galleries.
Best for: local artists, affordable artwork, handmade crafts, community exhibitions
Leigh Gallery
⭐ Independent Art Gallery
Leigh Gallery is an independent gallery at 77 High Street in the heart of Hastings Old Town. Established in London in 1982, the gallery moved to Hastings in 2001 and has since become part of the Old Town’s collection of independent galleries, shops and restaurants.
The gallery showcases original artwork alongside ceramics and other pieces by a range of artists and makers, making it an interesting stop while exploring the High Street and surrounding Old Town.
Best for: paintings, ceramics, glass and original artwork
Map of Art Galleries in Hastings
Exploring Art Galleries in Hastings
Hastings has a strong and varied arts scene, with contemporary galleries, independent exhibition spaces and museum collections to explore. Whether you are visiting Hastings Contemporary, exploring local artists at Rebel Gallery or discovering the collections at Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, there is something for every art lover. Many of the galleries featured in this guide are within easy reach of Apollo Guest House, making it an excellent base for an arts and culture break in Hastings.
Hastings’ art scene becomes particularly active during September, when the Coastal Currents Arts Festival brings exhibitions, Open Studios and creative events to venues across Hastings and St Leonards.
FAQs
Q: What are the best art galleries in Hastings?
A: Popular art galleries in Hastings include Hastings Contemporary, Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, Rebel Gallery, Gallery 53, PiP’s Hastings and Leigh Gallery.
Q: Where are the main art galleries in Hastings located?
A: Most art galleries are located in Hastings Old Town, around the Stade and George Street, with additional venues in the town centre.
Q: Is Hastings good for art and culture?
A: Yes, Hastings has a strong creative scene with contemporary galleries, independent exhibition spaces and regular art events throughout the year.
Q: Are art galleries in Hastings free to visit?
A: Many independent galleries in Hastings are free to enter. Hastings Contemporary charges admission for its exhibitions, with adult tickets currently £12.50, students £7 and under-18s free. Hastings and Rother residents can also receive discounted admission. Prices can change, so check the gallery website before visiting.
Q: Can you visit multiple galleries in one day in Hastings?
A: Yes, many of Hastings’ galleries are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to visit several in a single trip.
Choose Apollo Guest House For Accommodation
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.
