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St Clements Caves (Smugglers Caves), Hastings

The smugglers caves are a series of sandstone caves in the West Hill, said to have been used by smugglers during the 1700s. Hastings was a hotspot for smuggling due to its easy beach access, and protection from the cliffs.

Joseph Golding, a 34 year old greengrocer was cutting a garden seat into the side of the cliff, when his pick went through the rock opening a large cavern.

In The Gentleman Magazine of 1786 a reference to the caves said "An old man and his wife made their habitation from the year 1783, having been discharge from the town workhouse for repeated misbehaviour".

During World War II in 1940 the caves were used as an air raid shelter, housing as many as 600 people.

The caves have been open to the public since the 1800s and the 'Smugglers adventure' as it is known today is open to the public through the year Link

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