Drinks, Food and Books with Community Spirit.

Finally, I stepped onto a train for the first time in three years. My adventure began with a trip to Hastings, only twenty minutes from Rye.

On arrival, at Hastings, I headed to the promenade for a brisk walk by the mighty sea. 

Time to get out of my head, after a week of writing and editing.

Wind-swept, following my walk, I headed to the newer part of the town. Since last visiting five years ago, I noted neglected empty buildings, closed restaurants, and cafes on one particular street. I remembered a buzzy atmosphere and those I met back then had talked excitedly about developing businesses and creativity within the town.

Saddened, by my observations, I carried on walking through the fierce wind. Fleecy grey low-lying clouds added to the changed surroundings. And then I came upon a tall building painted in bright red and gold. Drawn to the sign reading The Hanushka Coffee House, the fragrant smell of baking and the powerful aroma of coffee lured me in. The orchestrated sound of a barista machine and walls filled with books captured my sense of taste and curiosity. I stood in line and waited to order.  

I met the charming owner, Andrew, and asked about his emporium of books. “Customers are free to take one or more books home or read while enjoying a drink and eating and if they wish, they can donate money that supports keeping the shelves filled.”  He said.

Men, women, and families gathered at tables; some reading, others chitter-chatted. I smiled at the groups of young children at the back of the café, supervised by grown-ups, having fun, reading, and laughing (all music to my ears).

Sitting in this almost tangible, uplifting, and energised environment, I heard customers from all walks of life share their interest in books and engage with each other.

Happily, wrapped up in my bookish surroundings, I drank my heavenly mug of coffee and stayed for an hour. Reluctantly, I left and headed towards the Old Town.

I pondered on the footprints left by those who once walked along these historic narrow and cobbled streets.

My takeaway:- villages and towns need a cafe ideally with a book emporium, and a library nearby. Each one enriches and supports the local economy and community.

I found my wonderland of books and coffee, essentials in any author’s life. Until my next visit, it’s back to the page, inspired to write some more.