Explore diverse collections spanning fine art, local history, and world cultures with free admission and family-friendly workshops including a LEGO Education studio.

Hastings Museum & Art Gallery offers families an engaging indoor destination showcasing over 10,000 fine art objects alongside extensive local and social history collections that chronicle Hastings' heritage. The museum features world cultures exhibits with unique artifacts, providing educational and cultural experiences for visitors of all ages. Families can participate in structured learning opportunities through the museum's dedicated education programs. Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2 workshops cater to different age groups, while the LEGO Education Innovation studio offers hands-on creative learning experiences. The venue also provides loan boxes for home education and hosts regular events and temporary exhibitions throughout the year. With free entry and pushchair-friendly facilities, the museum welcomes families with young children (ages 4+) to explore its collections at their own pace. The venue combines cultural enrichment with interactive learning, making it suitable for school groups, home educators, and families seeking educational activities. Visitors can browse online 3D collections and access digital resources through the Hastings Digital Museum, extending the experience beyond the physical space.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

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Quentin stark

3 weeks ago

A great museum that is free to visit. A collection of local historic artifacts including fossils and local history. Costumes, jewellery, tools and a great collection of ceramics.

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Janine Hamilton

4 months ago

So much wonderful and interesting history in this place. Definitely well worth the time to visit if you get the chance

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Евгения Смирнова

5 months ago

An amazing museum that is quite large for a no-fee entry. You can not only explore the local history of Hastings but also learn about the past of many other cultures and countries, including the dinosaurs!

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lamoussiere cerise

6 months ago

A truly fascinating museum that completely exceeded expectations. The highlight is an incredible two-story, intricately carved wooden reproduction of an Indian palace. Absolutely mind-blowing and unlike anything you’d expect to find here. Beyond that, the exhibitions are rich and varied, covering Hastings through different eras, the surprising influence of a local figure on the colonisation of America, and even a local dinosaur bone dig. It’s an engaging and unique place that keeps you interested throughout. Well worth a visit.

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Ashiq Hoque

6 months ago

Really enjoyed this museum. I wasn't expecting much but there was a huge variety of things to see. Historic Hastings, modern real life photo galleries, an Indian style hall and items from many historical people. I could have spent a long time in here

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026