When visiting St Leonards on Sea, there are small alcoves to sit in when walking along the beach front. After a while you come across a wonderful eatery, (always long queues) ‘Goat Ledge’; it is the art on the cove walls which makes you stop, the paintings of a community project for different age groups.
St Leonards has an interesting history. The original part of the settlement was laid out in the early 19th century as a new town. Elegant houses were designed and built for the well off, including a central public park, a hotel, an archery, assembly rooms and church. Today St Leonards has extended well beyond that original design though the initial town still exists within it. The land was once owned by the Lovett family, an ancient Sussex family of Norman origin who owned the adjacent manor of Hollington and subsequently passed it on to their descendants. They rose to prominence from their iron foundries and widespread property holdings during Tudor times.
They served as Surrey and Sussex sheriffs in the 15th and 17th century and were later barons before the family became extinct. James Burton, a successful London property developer purchased the estate with the concept of a seaside resort. Work started in 1826, a house for himself, West Villa, with service areas, shops as well as public buildings for entertainment, picturesque villas and water for the central garden which was to be paid for by subscription. A road for access was to be built through Silverhill.
Before he died in 1837, the Royal Victoria Hotel, the South Colonnade and an archway, marking the boundary with Hastings, were constructed.
In 1875 the two towns were merged into the county borough of Hastings. Soon after, Warrior Square and Upper St Leonards areas were developed. In 1888 construction on the pier started, opening in 1891. Marina Court, the building resembling an ocean liner, opened its 153 flats with three restaurants below in 1937. Now a listed building it was not very popular initially. Plans are afoot to fully restore the neglected building after the residents agreed to buy it. Over the years other interesting restaurants and art galleries have sprung up below the flats.
St Leonards-on-Sea is well worth a visit, easily reached by train to Warrior Square station. From there, head for Kings Road, with many antique shops and cafes, then continue down to the beach.
Image Credits: Heidi Foster .