Hastings Castle Reopens with Family Fun Weekend

Image credit Georgina Cook

Hastings Castle reopened on Friday 8 May with a special ‘Creatures of the Castle’ event, followed by a family day on Sunday 10 May.

Troika Projects, the team behind the West Hill Project and new leaseholders of Hastings Castle, recently appointed Ellie Westbrook and Vanessa Farinha to lead the events programming at the site. Established creatives and cultural producers with strong local and national profiles, they are developing a programme of regular and one-off events designed to enhance the visitor offer and bring new life to this historic landmark. Working with local organisations and event organisers, the programme aims to strengthen the castle’s connection with the local community.

Following the end of the previous lease, a detailed condition survey identified a number of issues that require ongoing work and investment to secure the castle’s long-term future. While temporary barriers remain in place in some areas as these essential improvements continue, this important work is helping to protect and preserve the site.

Celia Farrar, Troika Projects, said: “Troika Projects are thrilled to be taking on the lease for the castle and are delighted to see the site reopen following essential works. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the ‘Creatures of the Castle’ events – the support has been fantastic. We look forward to sharing an exciting programme of events in the months ahead.”

Photos courtesy of Georgina Cook

For updates on the events programme at Hastings Castle, visit hastingscastle.org.uk and for bookings and enquiries email the team hello@hastingscastle.org.uk.

You can also find out more about Town Deal-funded activity across the West Hill, including plans for the new visitor centre, café and restaurant, via Troika’s West Hill Project site The West Hill Project site.

Notes

At the March 2026 Cabinet meeting, £200,000 of funding was approved to undertake priority repairs identified as necessary to address issues with the castle’s condition for both immediate and future use. These works include structural repairs, temporary propping, and cordoning off certain areas while longer-term solutions are agreed with Historic England. This ensures the site remains safe while supporting the next phase of activity at Hastings Castle and West Hill.

The Cabinet meeting also included updates on the wider Hastings Castle and West Hill project, including early-stage work such as the proposed designation of Castle Hill as a Local Nature Reserve, and funding for repairs to the West Hill Lift engine room.

Visit Latest news | Monday 2 March 2026 Cabinet meetinghttps://www.hastings.gov.uk/news/latest/cabinet-7-july-25/ for details.

These activities form part of a long-term strategy to protect the historic landscape, enhance public access, and deliver heritage-led regeneration across the area.

The full Cabinet report can be read here: Latest news | Monday 2 March 2026 Cabinet meeting.