Prominent sandstone cliffs to the east of Hastings Old Town. The cliffs are composed of horizontally-bedded Hastings Beds sandstone. Evidence of recent cliff fall, caused by winter storms and heavy rain, can be seen towards the centre of the cliff face. The groyne on the right of the photo has allowed the build-up of a beach in front of the cliff. This is caused by longshore drift of beach sediment from west to east along the coast. The beach, in addition to being a facility for holidaymakers, will help protect the cliffs from marine erosion.
Hastings pier has been closed since 1999, following considerable storm damage, and a serious fire in October 2010. In August 2013 the pier was compulsory purchased and reverted to local ownership. Following a grant from the Heritage Lottery Trust and local fundraising efforts, a £14 million renovation project is now underway. It is hoped to re-open the pier in the Spring of 2015.
Hastings Old Town is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Britain. The boats in the photos form part of a fishing museum in the Old Town. In the background can be seen the tall, black, wooden sheds – the Net Shops – which were built to store fishing gear.