Bulverhythe Beach (Hastings)

Like so many beaches along the Sussex coastline Bulverhythe is predominantly shingle interspersed with groynes. It is a popular spot for swimming and water sports, and there are a good number of beach huts available for hire here.

This beach is the site of the shipwreck ‘the Amsterdam’, the top of which is sometimes visible at low tide. The ship ran aground in 1749 after an outbreak of plague is believed to have sparked a mutiny, during which the sailors got drunk on the wine cargo it was carrying. It is of great historical importance, being the best preserved East India Company ship still around. A replica of the ship can be seen in Amsterdam. Whilst tours of the wreck can be arranged, it is not a good idea to explore it alone as there is quicksand in the area around the wreck.

To the west of the beach, a sea wall protects the railway embankment with a promenade behind that leads to Bexhill Beach.

Parking with direct access to the beach is available off Cinque Ports Way and there is also a café on the road, and a large children’s play area next to the car park. Further parking can be found along Sea Road next to the promenade, from where the beach can be accessed down a short flight of steps. The closest railway station from the beach is West St Leonards, just a few hundred meters away.

The promenade, which includes a cycle lane, takes visitors from the beach eastwards towards the centre of Hastings, where there are plenty of facilities such as shops, places to eat, and pubs.