Let’s get the map out. St Leonards-on-Sea sits on the south coast of England, in East Sussex. It’s basically a seaside town that clings to the western edge of Hastings.
Think of it as Hastings’ cooler, quieter sibling. You know, the one who spends more time in vintage shops than at the arcade?
It’s about an hour and a half from London by train. So close you could pop down for a late breakfast and still be home for dinner.
Wait, Isn’t It Just Part of Hastings?
Technically, yes. But locals will tell you it has a completely different vibe. St Leonards was designed in the 1800s as a fancy seaside resort, all grand stucco terraces and leafy gardens.
Hastings is gritty, historic, and full of fish ’n’ chip shops. St Leonards? It’s more like a bohemian beach town trying on a Regency coat.
You can feel the difference in the air. It’s like comparing a cosy pub to an indie coffee shop with mismatched chairs.
