Eastbourne is a seaside town located in East Sussex, on the south coast of England. The town is a popular getaway destination because of its natural beauty and mild climate. The South Downs lie behind the town, and the gently rolling hills make their way down to a shingle beach that borders the blue waves of the English Channel. Directly to the west of Eastbourne is Beachy Head, the highest chalk cliff in England, which offers stunning, panoramic views of the ocean. The cliff also shelters the town from the elements, contributing to Eastbourne’s reputation as the sunniest place in Great Britain.
What to See in Eastbourne
Eastbourne’s charming seafront is its main attraction. Four miles of beach lie in front of a row of Victorian Hotels. The Eastbourne Pier juts out into the sea and features restaurants, cafes, and shops, including a tattoo parlor. It is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying views of the sea. In summer the weather is warm, and people often sunbathe on the beach or go for a dip in the English Channel.
The town of Eastbourne is home to several cultural attractions, including four theatres. The renowned Congress Theatre often features performances by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. The museum How We Lived Then contains exhibits that recreate the way shops and houses looked over a period of time spanning from the 1800s to the Second World War.
Those interested in architecture can visit the medieval parish church of Saint Mary’s, in Eastbourne’s Old Town, or the Catholic Church of Our Lady of Ransom, which features a Gothic interior and an impressive collection of art. The flint tower rising above St Michael’s at Ocklynge is another interesting landmark.
There are numerous cultural events that take place in Eastbourne throughout the year. Airbourne is the world’s largest seaside air show, and Eastbourne’s Annual Beer Festival is the biggest of its nature in East Sussex. Complete information on these and other events can be found here, at the site of Vist Eastbourne.
What to See Outside Eastbourne
Eastbourne’s stunning natural surroundings are just begging to be explored by adventurous tourists. Going for a walk in the South Downs is a tranquil and inspiring experience, and impressive views are to be had at the crest of every hill.
It would be almost criminal to visit Eastbourne without walking along with Beachy Head. You can walk to the chalk cliff from the town, or drive or take public transportation. Beachy Head rises 530 feet above the sea, and the views it offers are unparalleled in all of England.
The Eastbourne Lighthouse lies beneath Beachy Head and is one of the town’s most enduring landmarks. It has been in operation for over one hundred years.
Where to Stay in Eastbourne
Eastbourne is a popular destination for tourists and features a variety of high-quality hotels. Those interested in a luxurious break can stay at the Grand Hotel Eastbourne, the town’s only five-star, luxury hotel. The Grand, which is nicknamed The White Palace, features stunning views of the ocean and Beachy Head and is a short walk from the Eastbourne Pier, as well as the South Downs. It also provides a spa and quality restaurants onsite.
Other popular hotels include The Devonshire Park Hotel and the New Wilmington Hotel, both of which receive consistently high ratings from guests. Those interested in the most bang for their buck can check into the Marine Parade Hotel, or the Eastbourne Riviera Hotel, which offers high-quality accommodations at reasonable prices.
