UK RAIL logo

Explore Eastbourne: A Quintessential English Seaside Resort

Located at the foot of the South Downs in East Sussex, Eastbourne is a classic English seaside resort perfect for family holidays. The town exudes a genteel charm that harks back to its aristocratic beginnings when the Duke of Devonshire laid out plans for it in 1834. The town boasts splendid architecture, a bustling atmosphere, and a warm welcome for visitors.

A Glimpse into Eastbourne

Today, Eastbourne is a thriving resort town with a 3-mile long promenade, a pier, and beautiful beaches at the town centre and nearby Pevensey Bay. The town offers a wealth of beachside facilities including cafes, shops, and toilets. A notable landmark in the town is Beachy Head, a towering headland that rises to 530 feet and offers excellent views of the town and the surrounding coastline. On a clear day, one can see as far as 40 miles along the coast to Kent and fifty miles in the opposite direction to Brighton.

Heritage Coastline and Historical Monuments

The white chalk cliffs between Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters, and Seaford Head are designated by the Countryside Commission as the first ever stretch of Heritage Coastline. This stretch of coastline is of significant natural beauty and is managed to preserve its largely undeveloped splendour.

Not far from here is the historical Pevensey Castle. This site, which started as a Roman fort around 2000 years ago, saw William the Conqueror build his first castle after the Battle of Hastings. The castle was later fortified during the Spanish Armada and served as a gun emplacement to protect the coast during World War II. Today, the ruined castle is maintained by English Heritage and is a popular tourist attraction.

Attractions in Eastbourne

Activities in Eastbourne

Whether you prefer lounging on the beach or engaging in more active pursuits, Eastbourne offers a range of activities. These include walking, swimming, snorkelling, sailing, surfing, windsurfing, and kite sailing.

Local Pubs, Restaurants, and Shopping

Eastbourne boasts a plethora of pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops, ensuring there's always something to do.