Rock-a-Nore Net Shops

Rock-a-Nore is a unique collection of wooden fishing structures that line the beach at Hastings, representing a living example of a working fishing community largely unchanged in character for centuries. These black-tarred net shops and storage lofts sit directly on the beach and within the lower cliff face, serving both as commercial spaces and functional fishing facilities. The shacks store nets, equipment, and the day's catch, while many also operate as galleries, cafes, gift shops, and small businesses, creating an eclectic blend of heritage conservation and contemporary enterprise.

The name derives from the Norman word for a rock formation once visible here at high tide. The structures themselves are mostly Victorian and Edwardian in origin, though their function extends back to medieval times when Hastings was one of the Cinque Ports. The timber construction with weathered black pitch is distinctive and iconic, photographed by visitors from around the world. Many shacks retain their fishing function; others have adapted to tourism and the arts. The site offers an authentic glimpse of how working fishermen's communities organised their activities and storage before modern port infrastructure.

Walking among the net shops, visitors encounter local fishermen at work, purchase fresh fish directly from boats, browse artwork and crafts, or simply soak in the atmosphere of a historic maritime quarter. The site is fully accessible from Hastings Old Town and rock pools nearby offer additional interest for families exploring the shoreline.