Sun, sea and sci-fi aren’t a common combination, but the futuristic and budget Pod Central makes it work.
To find out more about the space-themed beds and what there is to do nearby, read on.
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Where is Pod Central?
The white-washed building is tucked down a quiet side street, not far from hip bars, restaurants and quirky shops of St. Leonards-on-sea in Hastings.
It’s a six minute walk down to the seafront and three minutes from St. Leonards Warrior Square Station.
What is Pod Central like?
Pod Central is a safe and budget-friendly base featuring many of the comforts you get in a hotel — fluffy towels, vegan-friendly toiletries and soft bedding — but with the fixed price tag of a hostel.
The sleeping quarters look like they’ve been plucked straight from a spaceship.
Instead of rooms, you’ll get your own pod which sleeps one person and has lockable doors.
You get into the hotel using an entry code for the door.
Usually it’s a self check-in process, but owner Mia Preston meets me outside and we step into a large room with pods stacked in three separate units.
There are also three large bathrooms with rainfall showers, toiletries and hairdryers plus lockers each big enough for a small suitcase.
What is there to do at Pod Central?
Owner Mia has put together a local guide for guests.
Enjoy dips in the sea, sunbathe in nearby Victorian gardens and parks or head to the pier, home to the UK’s biggest beer garden.
The Coastal Cultural Trail from St. Leonards to Bexhill is a flat five mile walk passing colourful beach huts and quiet stretches of beach.
The Kino cinema is also around the corner along with art galleries, pubs and cocktail bars.
What is there to eat and drink at Pod Central?
There is no restaurant so you’ll have to head out for food.
Just across the road is Milk and Hustle which does excellent coffee or Dandelion Deli has fresh pastries, poached eggs and avo toast, while The Bank Hotel on the seafront offers a full English for £7.50 to non-residents.
What are the rooms like at Pod Central?
Each person gets a pod which comes with free wifi, a reading light, USB outlets to charge phones, plug sockets and an air fan, plus a duvet, two pillows topped with towels and a small box containing a pair of earplugs (although pods are relatively soundproof).
Mine feels like a Tardis with ample room and handy ledges for things like my phone – and at 5ft 9” I can sit up and lie down comfortably.
How much is Pod Central?
One-person pods cost from £30 per night. Click here to book.
Is Pod Central family-friendly?
It’s better suited to solo travellers or those on a budget.
Is there access for guests with disabilities?
No.
Looking for a place to stay? For more hotel inspiration click here.
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