Hastings is a seaside town and borough located on the south coast of England in East Sussex. It is situated approximately 24 miles east of Lewes and 53 miles southeast of London. The town serves as an important fishing port, currently hosting the United Kingdom's largest beach-based fishing fleet.
The town is historically significant for its association with the Battle of Hastings, which occurred in 1066 at Senlac Hill, located about 8 miles to the northwest. During the medieval period, Hastings became one of the Cinque Ports. In the 19th century, the arrival of the railway transformed the area into a popular seaside resort, a status it maintains today. As of 2021, the town had an estimated population of 91,100.