Pivotal to the Norman conquest, playground for 19th-century smugglers and thriving holiday resort under Queen Victoria, Hastings is off the scale when it comes to historical importance. And those heading there today will be thrilled to discover it also has growing 21st-century standing.

Hastings' delightful Old Town is surely the most pleasant place to hang out. Packed with quirky independent shops and cafes, this area has begun to take on a feel rather like that of the celebrated Lanes in nearby Brighton. And the postcardesque East and West Hills only add to its appeal. A fun way to reach the top is by using one of two cliff railways – one underground and one over – which, believe it or not, are over 100 years old.

While visitors may wish to just enjoy a bag of vinegary chips or a leisurely stroll along the prom, prom, prom, some will be tempted by Hastings’ surprisingly busy cultural calendar. How about an arthouse film at the Electric Palace cinema or an opera at St-Mary-in-the-Castle, the beautifully-restored church with truly fantastic acoustics? Carefully-timed trips will include celebrating the start of summer with Morris dancers (Jack-in-the-Green festival, May), exploring quaint open gardens (July), or discovering the creative innovations of Coastal Currents, the town's month-long visual arts festival (August-September).

Indeed, Hastings is starting to get extremely well-known for its arts scene. This was perhaps confirmed when street artist Banksy put his stamp on neighbouring St Leonards in 2010. Another arts-related boost came when the Jerwood Collection chose Hastings to house its permanent collection of 150 British works, due to open in the spring of 2012. Jerwood apparently picked the town because it's special to many of the collection’s artists, and to secure it on the map of the south coast’s already thriving arty vibe.

Google searches will no doubt bring up negative reports of a town which experienced an undeniable period of decline during previous decades. However, with the capital being pumped into Hastings and the enthusiasm of those working flat out make it the best it can possibly be, it’s unlikely today’s visitors will be disappointed.