Whilst you're in the area: St Leonards-on-Sea

Steeped in history & architectural delights, St Leonards-on-Sea was the vision of well renowned London architect, James Burton who developed the area as an up-market holiday resort in the early 1800’s. Having developed much of London’s Bloomsbury’s & Regents Park, Burton later shared his architectural splendour with the seaside, a concept that is still very much enjoyed to this day.

There is plenty to see, eat & drink in St Leonards... our comprehensive guide will set you in the right direction.

Where to eat:

If like us, you plan your trips around meal times then listen up - St Leonard’s is sure to satisfy! Whatever you fancy, you won’t be short of options! Here’s a list of our go to spots:

• Heist Market - An old bank turned indoor street food market with a selection of food & drink stalls serving foods from around the world as well as beer, wine, coffee, cakes & cocktails!

• The Royal - Exceptional gourmet pub grub. Booking ahead strongly advised!

• Galleria - Enjoy glorious sea food in a perfectly intimate setting.

• St Clements - More delicious seafood (of course, we’re on the coast!)

• La Bella Vista - Bellissimo! Head to La Bella Vista if Italian cuisine is your thing.

• Farmyard - For delicious natural wines & well thought out seasonal fair. Or try their sister restaurant at Heist Market just down the road - Boatyard

• Starsky & hatch - Brunch with a view! A hatch in the wall affair down the infamous bottle alley. Nab yourself a deck chair and soak up the scenery.

• Plant The Seed - Unmissable vegan toasties & sarnies to be consumed on the beach if you can walk that far before devouring!

• Maker+Baker - Delectable baked treats... once they're gone, they're gone so be quick!

• Dandelion Deli - Delicious home cooked food with a daily changing special & a good spot to pick up a few bits for a picnic!

• Goat Ledge - A casual beachfront affair serving fish baps, cold drinks, coffee & ice creams.

• Sleeper Store - Thinks deep filled, home-made bagels - Sleeper Store

• Half man half burger - Arguably the best burgers on the south coast!

• Fika - A relaxed café style eatery serving delicious cakes & coffee as well as brunch & lunch.

• Three Faces - A lovely little Spanish Eatery & deli serving small plates tapas style.

• Graze on Grand - A stones throw from the seafront, Graze on Grand is a wine bar & gallery serving tasty bites

• BAIT – A neighbourhood restaurant which focuses on farm-to-table ethos with an open kitchen and a charcoal grill!

Where to drink:

• Bolthole Coffee (Heist) - The best coffee in town!

• Collected Fictions - A cute little bottle shop with a fine collection of beers & wines, changing specials on tap & a very knowledgeable bar man -

• Cactus Hound Bar - Divine Cocktails, refreshing Beers, choice Wines and a selection of over 40 Tequilas and Mezcals 

• Three Legs Brewery – A local brewery serving a regularly changing selection of craft beers from a permanent spot in Heist Market

• The St Leonards – An eclectic drinking pub showcasing vibrant artworks, a good spot to hunker up in

• Marina Fountain – a lovely pub with a large garden serving small plates 

• The Piper – A pub & music venue… Keep an eye out for live music events! 

• Wermut Bar – Vermouth and Negroni bar based in Heist Market serving a whole selection of delicious cocktails

Where to shop:

You’ll find a vast array of tightly packed antique shops, well stocked charity shops & shops selling bits & bobs you didn’t know you needed. To name a few...

• Shop Norman road - A beautifully curated selection of homewares, food gifts & much more

• Pass Muster – a lovely little shop & workshop in St Leonards selling restored furniture, home wares, gifts and art.

• Made & Merchant – a wonderful array of plants & flowers alongside lovely pots & home wares.

What to do:

• The beach! Of course… gather your picnic locally or enjoy a bbq on the beach. When the sea is calm it’s a great spot for paddle boards or a dip if you’re brave enough.

• Kino-Teatr – an Independent Cinema & Music Venue, with an Art Gallery, Bar and Restaurant!

• St Leonards Gardens - Originally landscaped for architect James Burtons private garden, the St Leonards Gardens can now be enjoyed by everyone. Head there when the lilies are in full bloom & enjoy a moments peace amidst the beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Explore the many Galleries including a few of our favourites, Stella dore, Big Yin & Project 78

• Sea Breeze Pilates - Feeling active? Give reformer pilates a go at the newly opened Sea Breeze Pilates

A trip to this vibrant seaside town is a must! There is plenty to do in St Leonards alone but don't forget Hastings is within walking distance! Check out our other posts in this series to see whats hot in Hastings & beyond!

TOP TIP: Many of the shops & cafes are closed on a Monday & Tuesday after a busy weekend (we all need a break at some point!). Visit between Wednesday & Sunday to make the most of your trip!