- Discover how Hastings appeared during its prime in the 1900s – think donkey rides and beach athletics.
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Even though it’s now among the UK's most recognizable coastal towns, Hastings originally started as a modest fishing community.
Its global recognition stems from its connection to the 1066 Battle of Hastings, despite the well-known clash between William the Conqueror and Harold Godwinson taking place roughly seven miles away at Senlac Hill.
Even though there was a geographical error, the town attracted visitors in the early 1900s as people flocked to Hastings to relish seaside vacations and explore its Norman Castle.
Similar to numerous coastal towns in Britain, Hastings experienced a decline in appeal during the 1980s and '90s as affordable foreign package vacations started luring Britons away from domestic destinations.
Despite this, Hastings continues to be a favored one-day excursion spot for people from London.
It also houses one of Europe's final 'beach-launched fishing fleets,' which is a major attraction for tourists.
MailOnline Travel is now taking a walk down memory lane with this collection of fascinating, historic photos, depicting the seaside town's glory days.
Scroll down for a stroll back into Hastings' heyday - from donkey rides to a Marilyn Monroe lookalike competition...
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