Discover Eastbourne: A Seaside Gem
Eastbourne, once a quaint fishing village, blossomed into a Victorian beach resort and remains a top seaside destination in England. The town's charm is evident along its three-mile seafront promenade, lined with grand white and pastel buildings, including the iconic Grande Parade. The Eastbourne Pier and the Winter Garden theater add to the allure of this coastal retreat.
Shoppers and art lovers will enjoy the pedestrian-friendly High Street, while the historic Royal Hippodrome Theatre offers entertainment. For the active, Eastbourne provides parks, golf courses, tennis courts, and the South Downs Way trail. The town is also home to the Eastbourne International tennis tournament each June.
1. Beachy Head
Beachy Head, a 530-foot chalk cliff, offers breathtaking views and is a must-see. The Beachy Head Lighthouse and the clifftop Belle Tout Lighthouse, now a B&B, enhance the area's beauty. Explore the cliff path or join a Guided Walk to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Location: Beachy Head, Eastbourne
2. Carpet Gardens
The Carpet Gardens are the pride of Eastbourne's Promenade, featuring colorful plant displays and fountains. Nearby, the Italian Gardens offer a serene setting for open-air events.
Location: Seafront, Eastbourne
3. Marine Parade Beaches
The Marine Parade Beaches, near the Wish Tower, are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, with amenities like lifeguards and refreshment facilities. Holywell Retreat is another charming beach spot worth visiting.
Address: Grand Parade, Eastbourne
4. Eastbourne Pier
The Victorian Eastbourne Pier offers stunning views, dining, an amusement arcade, and shops. Don't miss the Camera Obscura for a unique view of the seafront. Nearby, the Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum delves into the town's maritime history.
Address: Grand Parade, Eastbourne
5. Eastbourne Redoubt
The Eastbourne Redoubt fortress showcases military history, including the Royal Sussex regiment and the Queen's Royal Irish Hussars. The site also features a cinema and café.
Address: Royal Parade, Eastbourne
6. Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park
Enjoy a ride on detailed miniature trains through gardens at the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park. The park also offers a nature walk, playground, and fishing on Southbourne Lake.
Address: Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne
7. Seaford and the Seven Sisters
Seaford, near Eastbourne, is known for its Martello Tower and the Seven Sisters Country Park. The Seven Sisters cliffs offer stunning views, especially from Seaford Head.
Address: E Dean Road, East Sussex, Seaford
8. Towner Art Gallery
The Towner Gallery houses over 4,000 artworks, including pieces by Henry Moore and Pablo Picasso. The gallery also offers tours and educational programs.
Address: Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne
9. Michelham Priory
Michelham Priory is a historic house with Tudor and Victorian elements, set on a moated island. It features beautiful gardens, a watermill, and a Great Barn for events.
Location: Upper Dicker, Hailsham
10. The Cuckoo Trail
The Cuckoo Trail is a 14-mile path ideal for walking, cycling, and horseback riding, offering a scenic route through the countryside.
11. The Observatory Science Centre
The Observatory Science Centre at Herstmonceux offers interactive exhibits and a glimpse into the world of astronomy. Nearby Herstmonceux Castle is also open for tours.
Location: Herstmonceux, Hailsham
