Scott Hastie

The Kings Langley History Society would like to pay respect and offer heartfelt condolences to the family of Scott Hastie who sadly died in June. Scott lived and worked in Kings Langley for many years as a librarian in Kings Langley library before retiring to Bournemouth.

Scott was also a celebrated poet and writer particularly of local history. His publications with David Spain included the Kings Langley – A Hertfordshire Village, published in 1991 which is undoubtedly a cornerstone work celebrating our village’s rich history. Scott and David proceeded to research and publish other wonderful local history books on Abbots Langley, Berkhamsted and A Hertfordshire Valley in 1996 which included more fascinating insights to Kings Langley’s past.

More recently Scott worked with Michael Long for Michael’s compelling book Palace Lives. We are indebted to his research and writing in capturing and securing our village’s history.

From Archives:

Scott Hastie (1954–2025) was a celebrated British poet, writer, and local historian who lived and worked in Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, for over forty years. He was particularly known for his extensive writings on the history of southwest Hertfordshire and his internationally acclaimed poetry.

Life and Career

Librarian: Hastie worked for many years as a librarian at the Kings Langley library.

Historian: He co-authored several local history books with acclaimed archive photographer David Spain, including the “cornerstone work” Kings Langley: A Hertfordshire Village (1991) and A Hertfordshire Valley (1996). He also collaborated with historian Michael Long as the editor for the 2023 book Palace Lives, which delves into the area’s royal palace history.

Poet: His poetry, which explores human potential, love, and spiritual growth, has attracted international attention and been widely translated. He published numerous collections, including the landmark “best of” volumes Timeless and Splinters of Light in 2021.

Mentor: Hastie offered mentoring services to other creative writers and students worldwide and maintained a popular website, scotthastie.com, where he shared samples of his work and encouraged feedback.