Standing proudly above the town on West Hill, Hastings Castle is one of England’s most significant historic landmarks - the very first Norman castle built following William the Conqueror’s arrival in 1066. Initially constructed as a fast‑built wooden motte‑and‑bailey fortress, it formed part of a strategic trio of defensive structures at Hastings, Pevensey and Dover, designed to secure the Normans’ foothold on the south coast.

Soon after the Battle of Hastings, William ordered Hastings Castle to be rebuilt in stone (around 1070), marking the beginning of its transformation into a more permanent stronghold. A stone keep, robust curtain walls and St Mary’s Chapel were added, with the castle remaining in the hands of the powerful Counts of Eu throughout much of the Norman period. 

The castle’s fortunes rose and fell over the centuries. It was partially demolished on the orders of King John in 1216 to prevent its capture by French forces, before being refortified by Henry III in 1220. Its greatest enemy, however, proved to be nature. Severe storms in 1287 caused the soft sandstone cliffs to collapse, sending large sections of the structure tumbling into the sea - a process that continued for generations. Later French attacks in the 14th century further accelerated its decline.  

Today, visitors can wander through the atmospheric ruins, explore the surviving chapel remains and enjoy spectacular views across the coastline. The site tells the story not only of the Norman Conquest but also of the power of the sea, which has shaped the landscape for nearly a thousand years.