St Clements C Of E Church

St Clement's sits on the edge of Hastings, a proper Norman church that's been holding its own since medieval times. The building itself is the real draw here - solid stone walls, a decent bell tower, and the kind of interior you find in Sussex parish churches where the light comes through old windows and catches on worn stone floors. Most people don't stumble across it by accident; you've got to know it's there.

It's worth a visit if you're into ecclesiastical architecture or just fancying a quiet twenty-minute wander off the main Hastings drag. The churchyard is often peaceful, which counts for something if you're camping nearby and want a bit of culture between barbecues. History buffs will appreciate the medieval foundations, though it won't take long to see what there is to see.

If you're staying at one of the local holiday parks - Beaulieu Farm Campsite and Coghurst Hall are both within striking distance - this makes for an easy morning outing before heading into Hastings proper for the seafront attractions. Don't expect crowds or souvenir shops. This is the kind of church you visit because it's there, because it's old, and because everything closes by late afternoon anyway. Check ahead for opening times before you go, as many country churches keep irregular hours.