Researchers looked at a range of factors, including the number of independent shops, cultural landmarks, top-rated restaurants, local music events, TikTok popularity, and average summer temperatures.
Boasting an impressive 115 upcoming music events, along with a wealth of highly rated cultural landmarks and restaurants, Hastings easily took first place, with second place Royal Leamington Spa only registered 33 music events by comparison.
Hastings’ growing popularity is starting to shine through on social media, too, with over 62,300 TikTok posts, and with average summer temperatures of 16.3°C, it is rated as an ideal spot for outdoor adventures.
Hastings has always enjoyed a good reputation for its live music scene and the town has given birth to such events as the jack in the Green Festival, Pirate Day and the Fat Tuesday Mardi-Gras festival as well as having annual bonfire celebrations.
The research was carried out by Betway who analysed over 50 UK towns.

5. Hastings Bonfire
Hastings Bonfire Photo: supplied

6. Hastings Drag Queen Heather Duster
Hastings Drag Queen Heather Duster Photo: supplied

7. Jack in the Green
Jack in the Green Photo: supplied

8. Hastings busker Lewis Floyd Henry
Hastings busker Lewis Floyd Henry Photo: supplied

