The first reference to Unitarianism in Hastings goes back to 1819-20 when Mr. Richard Wright, on behalf of the London Unitarian Christian Fund Society made a tour of Sussex. The first service of worship took place in 1860.

The church in South Terrace was built in 1867/8, in the Roman Doric Style. Sir John Bowring KB.LLD. FRS laid the foundation stone and presided at the official opening.

During this period Hastings and St Leonards were popular seaside resorts and the church welcomed distinguished visitors such as the Martineau family, Dr Elizabeth Blackwell, first woman medical doctor, Professor Roger de Goey, classical scholar and writer and Jane Ashby, poet.

In 1930 the church brought the organ from our Westgate Church, Lewes. It was made by John Snetzler (1710-85) and purchased for Norton Chapel Derbyshire. In 1843 it was moved to our Banbury Church and in 1853 to Lewes. At present the history of this little gem is being researched by Dr Brian Hick.  Last July Matthew Copley Organ Design dismantled and cleaned the organ. Over the years it has been changed and added to, but we now know that the majority of the instrument is a genuine rare Snezler.  Recent measurements show that the instrament is pitched at 427.5, which is further confirmation of its original status.  The full report can be obtained from This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or from the committee. This lovely instrament, after much research, is currently being restored by Matthew Copley.

We expect our restored instrament will be back with us in Augst. In the meantime, it is possible to sponsor a pipe for £5, £10 or £20 according to size. If you would like to sponsor a pipe, or have any fund raising ideas, please contact Mary Burbage or write, following the 'find us' link.

During the years 1999-2001 we have extended the toilet facilities and installed a substantial fitted kitchen with a dishwasher.

We were also presented with some beautiful stained glass windows by Peter Quaife of Valley Forge.