Still wondering what to do in Eastbourne? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Eastbourne and book your hotel today!
Eastbourne is a sophisticated seaside resort in East Sussex, proudly boasting the best sunshine record in the UK. The town is famous for its elegant Victorian seafront, iconic pier, and dramatic chalk cliff coastline. The vast, unspoiled chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park provide a spectacular backdrop to the town.
You can stroll along the promenade, admire the colourful Carpet Gardens, or visit the historic Eastbourne Bandstand, which hosts summer concerts. For culture, the Towner Eastbourne gallery offers a celebrated modern art collection, while the historic theatres provide a rich programme of entertainment. Eastbourne is the perfect destination for a relaxing coastal break with a touch of elegance.
Eastbourne is a long, linear town spread along the coast, so your hotel location will define your holiday experience, whether you want easy access to the pier or the famous cliffs.
The most popular area is the Seafront Promenade between the pier and the Eastbourne Bandstand. Staying here places you in the heart of the traditional seaside atmosphere, close to many of the town's grand Victorian hotels and popular restaurants. This is the ideal area for first-time visitors who want constant views of the sea.
For a quieter, more scenic, and upscale base, look at the area around Holywell or the roads leading towards Beachy Head on the western side of the town. This area offers a peaceful retreat and direct access to the most beautiful coastal walks. Alternatively, the area around Devonshire Park is excellent for culture lovers, as it is close to the town's main theatres and the Towner Eastbourne gallery.
Eastbourne is served by a central railway station, Eastbourne Station, with regular direct trains to London Victoria and Brighton. The station is conveniently located just a short walk from the main seafront area, making it very accessible. Local bus services are available for reaching the stunning cliff walks at Beachy Head and the nearby marina at Sovereign Harbour.
Hotel prices in Eastbourne are at their absolute highest during the peak summer months, from June to August, when the town's renowned sunshine record and seaside attractions draw large crowds. Prices also spike during major local events, such as the Magnificent Motors show and the Aegon International Tennis tournament in June/July.
The best value is found during the quieter, cooler low season, from November to March. A unique tip for Eastbourne is to avoid booking during any major event at the Devonshire Park complex, as the surrounding hotels will charge a premium. Furthermore, a strategy of booking a mid-week stay will secure a much better price, as the town is highly popular for weekend breaks from the South East.