Hidden

These gems are easy to miss, but you really shouldn't. Under a humble artificial-flower shop in Hastings High Street is the fantastic Flower Makers' Museum – make no mistake, this is a powerhouse in the field of flower making, having supplied costume parts for Lady Gaga, the Broadway production of Frozen the Musical, and a recent royal christening. Nearby on Hastings Stade is the Hastings Lifeboat, which is open most days for viewing the boats and visiting the shop. Guided tours can be pre-arranged.

Many people miss Hastings Museum and Art Gallery because it's not smack-bang in the town centre, but it's an easy walk of around five minutes, just up Bohemia Road and next to the leisure centre. Displays include features on John Logie Baird and Robert Tressell, as well as dinosaur fossils and the spectacular Durbar Hall. 

The blackShed Gallery in Robertsbridge is a little out of the way for some visitors, but seriously worth a visit. Packed with contemporary art from local artists, many with international renown, it's a small gallery with a big presence.

Beautiful Winchelsea is England's smallest town – discover its history at the Court Hall Museum. When in Battle, take a break from the hustle of the High Street by slipping into the oasis of tranquillity that is the Almonry Gardens. Likewise Bexhill has a hidden oasis of peace in the form of Manor Gardens.