Discover St Leonards-on-Sea: A Vibrant Seaside Town with Regency Charm

Located between Hastings and Bexhill, St Leonards offers a long, quiet beach, Art Deco and Regency architecture plus verdant Hastings Country Park. London is just 90 minutes away. Meanwhile, locally you can enjoy a vibrant foodie and cultural scene, with everything from indie cinema to great art galleries. Few places do ‘shabby chic’ quite as well as ‘Lennies’, as the locals like to call it!

St Leonards-on-Sea The History

The History of St Leonards-on-Sea: From Seaside Resort to Urban Chic

St Leonards-on-Sea is so close to Hastings you can hardly see where one ends and the other begins! However, the towns are quite distinctive, each with its own history and culture.

The land that is now St Leonards was once owned by the Levett family, an ancient Sussex name of Norman origin. In the 1820s, James Burton, a successful property developer who had developed large areas of Bloomsbury and Regent’s Park in London, purchased the coastal land with the idea of building a seaside resort here. In 1850, his son Decimus Burton began the second phase of the building, acquiring more land and extending the development westwards. St Leonards had become a fashionable seaside town.

Today, with its great-value property, attractive regency architecture and urban vibe, it’s no wonder this East Sussex town is so popular with former Londoners.

St Leonards-on-Sea Local Amenities: Art, Dining, and Independent Shops

St Leonards is a vibrant community with a unique range of independent shops and an array of art galleries, particularly within the renowned Artists’ Quarter. But if you’re looking for a bigger shopping centre, head to nearby Hastings or Eastbourne. 

Love eating out? You’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, bars and coffee shops across the area. Whether you’re looking for a romantic meal, a quick coffee, a sandwich lunch or a glass of wine on the seafront as you watch the sunset, there really is something for everyone.

St Leonards-on-Sea Local Amenities
St Leonards-on-Sea Free Time

Free Time in St Leonards-on-Sea: Festivals, Promenades, and Green Spaces

Throughout the year, there are a number of events including the much anticipated St Leonards Festival in the heart of town, offering performing arts, music, a carnival and more. 

The long seafront promenade is fantastic place to enjoy a stroll; alternatively, for something a little greener there are many beautiful gardens within the residential areas.

St Leonards-on-Sea Transport Links: Easy Access to London, Brighton, and Beyond

Hastings has great transport links. Hop on a train from London’s Charing Cross and be in Hastings within 90 minutes. There are also direct rail services to Brighton, London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, as well as to Ashford International and the Eurostar.

If you’re coming by road, Hastings is well connected thanks to the A27, meaning you can reach Brighton in less than an hour, while the A21 takes you to London’s M25. Travelling in the opposite direction, you can be at Ashford in 50 minutes and the ferry port at Dover in just over an hour.

St Leonards-on-Sea Transport

 Whats nearby

St Leonards-on-Sea FAQs

What is St Leonards-on-Sea known for?
St Leonards-on-Sea is known for its Regency and Art Deco architecture, its long beach, and its vibrant artistic and cultural scene. The town has a distinct “shabby chic” vibe, and its independent shops, galleries, and cafes give it a unique, bohemian charm. The Artists’ Quarter is particularly popular for those interested in art and culture.
Is St Leonards-on-Sea a good place to live?
Yes, St Leonards-on-Sea is a great place to live, especially for those seeking a mix of seaside living and urban chic. The town offers affordable property compared to nearby Brighton, a growing food scene, and a strong sense of community. Its proximity to London (90 minutes by train) makes it popular with commuters as well as those looking to relocate from the capital.
What are the top attractions in St Leonards-on-Sea?
Top attractions include the long beach and seafront promenade, the Artists’ Quarter with its galleries and studios, and the historic Regency and Art Deco architecture. St Leonards Gardens is a beautiful green space, and nearby Hastings Country Park offers expansive outdoor areas for walking and picnics. The town’s vibrant café culture and independent shops also draw visitors.
What events take place in St Leonards-on-Sea?
St Leonards-on-Sea hosts several events throughout the year, with the St Leonards Festival being one of the biggest highlights. This festival features performing arts, live music, a carnival, and food stalls. Other cultural events include art exhibitions, pop-up markets, and seasonal festivities along the seafront and in the town centre.
What dining options are available in St Leonards-on-Sea?
St Leonards-on-Sea has a diverse range of dining options, from trendy cafes and bars to seafront restaurants and traditional pubs. Whether you’re after a quick coffee, a casual lunch, or a romantic dinner with a view, there’s something for everyone. The area is known for its independent eateries offering everything from fresh seafood to international cuisine.
How are the transport links in St Leonards-on-Sea?
St Leonards-on-Sea is well connected by train and road. Regular trains from Hastings station (just minutes away) offer direct services to London Charing Cross, which takes around 90 minutes. There are also trains to Brighton, London Victoria, and Gatwick Airport. By road, the A27 provides easy access to Brighton, while the A21 connects to London and the M25.
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in St Leonards-on-Sea?
St Leonards-on-Sea offers a variety of outdoor activities, from leisurely strolls along the seafront promenade to picnicking in St Leonards Gardens. Hastings Country Park, just a short drive away, provides hiking trails and stunning views. The town’s beach is perfect for enjoying the sea air, and the nearby pier in Hastings offers entertainment for all ages.
How far is St Leonards-on-Sea from London and Brighton?
St Leonards-on-Sea is approximately 90 minutes by train from London’s Charing Cross, making it a great option for commuters. Brighton is about 45 miles away, and the train journey takes just under an hour. The town’s convenient transport links make it easy to reach both major cities.
What is the housing market like in St Leonards-on-Sea?
The housing market in St Leonards-on-Sea is attractive for those looking for affordable seaside properties compared to neighbouring towns like Brighton. The town offers a mix of Regency, Victorian, and Art Deco homes, as well as more modern developments. Its growing popularity, especially with former Londoners, has made the area increasingly competitive, but it still offers great value for money.
What cultural experiences can I find in St Leonards-on-Sea?
St Leonards-on-Sea has a rich cultural scene, with the Artists’ Quarter being a key attraction for art lovers. The town hosts regular exhibitions, pop-up markets, and live music events. Independent cinemas like the Kino-Teatr show a mix of indie films and mainstream releases. There are also numerous galleries and creative spaces where local artists showcase their work.

Looking to move to this area?

St Leonards on Sea is a seaside town in the borough of Hastings, located on the South Coast of England to the west of Hastings. Known for being vibrant and quicky, this town is popular for its unique shops and eateries in addition to the elegant houses and beautiful public gardens.

SEARCH FOR PROPERTIES