Today Hastings (and neighbouring St Leonards-on-Sea) is a busy seaside town, popular with holidaymakers and day trippers wanting to soak up its coastal heritage and historic charm. Known to many for the famous battle of 1066, which was not actually fought at Hastings, the town has so much more to offer. In this book author Tina Brown reveals many little-known stories about Hastings including the fact that the town was the birthplace of television - invented by John Logie Baird - and that the unique Piece of Cheese Cottage in the old quarter was built as a result of a bet in 1871. As well as these, its secret places will be explored, including places connected to smuggling such as the Mortuary House with its cold chamber and coffin hatches, and the Stag Inn, which was frequented by the smugglers.

Secret Hastings & St Leonards explores the lesser-known episodes and characters of the town through the centuries. With tales of remarkable people, unusual events and tucked-away historical buildings, it will appeal to all those with an interest in the history of this East Sussex town.