Skip to main content
Historical Landmark

East Hill Cliff Railway

Rock A Nore Road

View on Google Maps

Photo: Marcoo

About East Hill Cliff Railway

Climb the steep cliff face aboard this historic funicular railway for spectacular coastal panoramas across Hastings and the English Channel from the summit of East Hill.

What's nearby

  • Hastings Fishermen's Museum next door
  • RX Fisheries next door
  • Shipwreck Museum next door
  • Hastings Aquarium next door
  • Hastings Contemporary next door

Distances as the crow flies, via Google

Photos

Photos via Google

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Friday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM – 5:30 PM

Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.

What visitors say

Kalina Davcheva

A wonderful experience and a great way to enjoy the stunning coastal views. The East Cliff Railway is well maintained, easy to use, and offers a unique ride with beautiful scenery overlooking the sea. The staff were friendly and helpful, making the visit even more enjoyable. It's a charming attraction that's great for all ages and well worth a stop if you're in the area.

· via Google

Andrew Thomas

This historic cliff railway connecting East Hill and Hastings beach is the steepest funicular railway inn the country. It opened in 1902 and has been a popular attraction in the town ever since. Tickets are quite reasonably priced for a memorable ride. They're sold as a compulsory return, so it's worth travelling both ways as you'll have paid to. It was an impressively seamless operation, with very little waiting time, quick card payment and a smooth ride. Look through the windows and you can see uninterrupted views over the beach and old town, and the dramatic cliff face of East Hill. The distinctive "station" buildings are a very recognisable feature of Hastings, and are kept in very good condition, as are the vehicles. The West Hill Lift offers a distinctly different experience, travelling through a tunnel inside the hill. As a pair, they're one of the most appealing attractions in Hastings.

· via Google

Holly Merry

Ticket pays for return journey. Longish wait as cars not filled and tickets only sold as car arrived, rather than to waiting travellers who would then be able to board without delay. Great views, smooth motion, didn't feel rickety or lurch at all.

· via Google

lamoussiere cerise

Taking the railway up offers one of the most beautiful views over Hastings. As you climb, the scenery opens up to sweeping views of the town, coastline, and sea. It’s simple but genuinely breathtaking. A short journey that’s absolutely worth it for the perspective alone.

· via Google

See all reviews on Google →

People say this cliff railway offers stunning views of the town, coastline, and sea, and provides access to Hastings Country Park with walking trails. Visitors also highlight the reasonable prices and the well-maintained, historic carriages. They also mention the staff are friendly, welcoming, and informative.

Summary via Google

At a glance

Address
Rock-a-Nore Road, Hastings, TN34 3EG Get directions
Category
Railways & Transport
Guest rating
4.5 / 5 (1,170 reviews)
Suitable for
All Ages
Setting
Indoor
Good for children
Yes
Destination
Hastings