I have been fascinated by the tall, black net huts of Hastings, East Sussex, since spotting them in an episode of Foyle’s War,

Hastings is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe and these unique black net huts are located in the Stade (Saxon word for landing place) area in the middle of the fishing quarter, by Hastings Old Town.

This is a Cinque Port too and until the 16th century (with other coastal towns) provided the ships and men who guarded King and Country from frequent and vicious attacks in return for special privileges.  This unique confederation of South East England Channel ports was the original force behind England’s maritime power.

Due to limited space on the beach, these black net huts grew upwards to accommodate the fishermen’s gear – and I suppose tarred against the weather.  There are around 50 or so there today, and they really are quite unusual yet strangely attractive.

Contributor:  Sue Lowry

A3 Traveller s on twitter @A3Traveller, on Flickr, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook: Sue Lowry.  It is the sister blog to MagellanStraits.com – the musings and observations of the staff of Magellan PR.  Magellan PR is on twitter, Pinterest, YouTube & Facebook:  @MagellanPR.