Things to do in Eastbourne
Eastbourne, UK is a charming seaside town located on the south coast of England and is a hidden gem that offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. There are lots of places to visit in Eastbourne, East Sussex. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, a stroll through picturesque gardens, or an adrenaline-packed adventure, Eastbourne has it all. From the iconic Beachy Head cliffs to the historic Redoubt Fortress, the town is steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Indulge in delicious seafood at the local restaurants, explore the vintage shops and boutiques, or catch a show at the iconic Congress Theatre. With its mild climate and stunning coastline, Eastbourne is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday.
Family-friendly attractions in Eastbourne
Eastbourne has many family-friendly attractions that are sure to keep the whole family entertained. The main attraction in Eastbourne is the famous Pier, which has recently undergone a £6 million renovation. The Pier is home to an amusement arcade, a Victorian tea room, a bar, and a restaurant. It also has a Victorian-style camera obscura that offers panoramic views of the town and the coast.
Another popular attraction in Eastbourne is the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park. This park features a miniature railway that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the park’s beautiful gardens. The park also has a play area, a cafe, and a gift shop.
If your family is interested in history, the Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum is a must-visit. This historic fortification was built in the 19th century to protect against French invasion. The museum offers an interactive experience that allows visitors to learn about the fort’s history and explore its underground tunnels.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in Eastbourne, East Sussex, to help you plan your next adventure in this charming town.
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Beach activities for families
Eastbourne is known for its beautiful beaches, and there are many family-friendly activities to enjoy. One of the best ways to experience the beach is to take a stroll along the promenade. The promenade offers stunning views of the sea and the town and is lined with cafes and restaurants.
For those who love water sports, Eastbourne has plenty to offer. The town’s beaches are perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are also many surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all ages and abilities.
If you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of beach games and activities to enjoy. Eastbourne’s beaches are perfect for building sandcastles, playing beach volleyball, and flying kites. There are also many beachside cafes and ice cream vendors to keep you fueled up for your day in the sun.
Outdoor activities for families
Eastbourne has many outdoor activities that are perfect for families. One of the most popular activities is hiking along the South Downs Way. This scenic trail offers stunning views of the coast and the countryside and is suitable for all ages and abilities. There are also many cycling routes in the area that are perfect for families.
For families who love animals, the Drusillas Park is a must-visit. This award-winning zoo features over 100 different species of animals, including monkeys, meerkats, and penguins. There are also many play areas and rides in the park, as well as a cafe and gift shop.
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Eastbourne Bandstand
If you are looking for things to do in Eastbourne, then how about a visit to Eastbourne’s art deco bandstand.
Eastbourne’s art deco bandstand which can hold up to 1600 guests is one of Britain’s busiest. The first performance at Eastbourne Bandstand took place way back in 1935, and today it is still going strong. More than 140 performances are held at Eastbourne Bandstand each year.
Today a visit to the Bandstand is one of the most popular things to do in Eastbourne. The performances range from kid’s shows, brass bands, to concerts and tribute bands.
The Beachy Head
The Beachy Head, located just west of Eastbourne, is the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, rising 162 meters above sea level. It is a popular spot for hikers and walkers, offering stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. The cliff is also notorious for its history of suicide jumps, and a lighthouse has been built on the cliff to help prevent further tragedies.
In addition to hiking and sightseeing, visitors to the Beachy Head can also enjoy a meal or drink at the Beachy Head pub, which boasts panoramic views of the cliffs and the sea. The pub offers a range of traditional British pub fare, including fish and chips, bangers and mash, and a variety of locally brewed ales.
For those who want to experience the beauty of the Beachy Head and the surrounding countryside in a more unique way, there are several companies that offer helicopter tours of the area. These tours provide breath-taking views of the cliffs, the sea, and the historic lighthouse, and are a great way to see the area from a different perspective.
Eastbourne Pier
Eastbourne Pier is a Victorian-era pier that has been a popular attraction for over a century. The pier offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages, including an amusement arcade, a variety of food and drink vendors, and a number of shops selling souvenirs and beach gear.
One of the most popular attractions on the pier is the Eastbourne Eye, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding area. The pier also features a traditional Victorian tearoom, where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake while taking in the views of the sea.
In addition to its array of attractions, Eastbourne Pier is also a popular spot for fishing, with several fishing stations available for use. The pier is open year-round, although its hours vary depending on the season.
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Sovereign Harbour
Sovereign Harbour is a large marina and residential development located on the outskirts of Eastbourne. The marina is the largest in Northern Europe and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors, including boat tours, fishing charters, and a range of water sports.
In addition to its array of water-based activities, Sovereign Harbour also features a number of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. One of the most popular restaurants in the area is The Waterfront, which offers stunning views of the marina and serves a range of seafood dishes.
For those who want to explore the area by foot, there are several walking trails and paths that offer stunning views of the marina and the surrounding countryside. The area is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the popular Eastbourne Harbour Park.
The Wish Tower
If you are a history buff, then a must place to visit in Eastbourne is the Wish Tower. The Wish Tower in Eastbourne is one of 74 Martello Towers that were built along the south coast. They were built to defend against Napoleon in the early 1800’s.
Towner Art Gallery
The Towner Art Gallery is a contemporary art museum located in the heart of Eastbourne. The museum features a range of contemporary art exhibitions and installations, as well as a variety of educational programs and events.
One of the most popular exhibitions at the Towner Art Gallery is the annual East Sussex Open, which showcases the work of local artists and provides a platform for emerging talent. The museum also features a permanent collection of over 5,000 works of art, including pieces by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henry Moore.
In addition to its exhibitions and collections, the Towner Art Gallery also features a café and gift shop, making it a popular spot for both art enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum
The Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum is a historic fortification located on the seafront in Eastbourne. The fortress was built in the early 19th century to protect against the threat of a French invasion and has been restored and preserved for visitors to explore.
The museum features a range of exhibitions and displays that showcase the history of the fortress and the military history of the town. Visitors can explore the barracks, gun emplacements, and underground tunnels, as well as a range of artifacts and memorabilia from the fortress’s long history.
In addition to its historical significance, the Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum also offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding area. The fortress is open year-round, although its hours vary depending on the season.
Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park
The Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park is a family-friendly attraction located just outside of Eastbourne. The park features a miniature steam railway that takes visitors on a scenic tour of the countryside, as well as a range of other attractions and activities.
In addition to the railway, the park features a miniature golf course, a playground, and a range of food and drink vendors. The park is open year-round, although its hours vary depending on the season.
Seven Sisters Country Park
The Seven Sisters Country Park is a beautiful nature reserve located just west of Eastbourne. The park features a range of hiking trails and walking paths that offer stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Seven Sisters Country Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including birds of prey, deer, and foxes. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and there are several picnic areas and rest stops available throughout the park.
South Downs National Park
The South Downs National Park is a large nature reserve that encompasses much of the countryside surrounding Eastbourne. The park features a range of hiking trails, cycling paths, and bridleways that offer stunning views of the landscape and the wildlife that calls it home.
In addition to its natural beauty, the South Downs National Park is also home to several historic sites and landmarks, including the iconic Chanctonbury Ring and the historic town of Lewes. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or on horseback, and there are several campsites and accommodation options available throughout the park.
Eastbourne events calendar
Throughout the year, Eastbourne plays host to a range of events and festivals that celebrate the town’s rich history and culture. One of the most popular events is the Eastbourne International Air show, which takes place every August and features a range of aerial displays and performances.
Other popular events include the Eastbourne Carnival, the Eastbourne Beer Festival, and the Eastbourne Winter Wonderland. These events offer something for everyone, from live music and entertainment to food and drink vendors and children’s activities.
Best places to eat in Eastbourne
Eastbourne is home to a range of restaurants and eateries that offer delicious food and drink for every taste and budget. Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include The Beach Deck, which serves fresh seafood and stunning views of the sea, and The Pilot Inn, a traditional British pub that offers a range of local beers and hearty pub fare.
Other popular options include The Green Almond, a vegetarian restaurant that offers delicious plant-based dishes, and The Dolphin, a family-friendly pub that serves a range of classic British dishes.
Getting around Eastbourne with children
Eastbourne is a small town, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you have young children, you may prefer to use public transport. The town has a good bus service that connects the town center to the outskirts of the town.
If you’re planning on visiting the South Downs Way, you may want to consider hiring bikes. There are many bike rental shops in the town that offer a range of bikes for all ages and abilities. This is a great way to explore the countryside and get some exercise at the same time.
Conclusion
Eastbourne, East Sussex is a charming town that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural beauty to exciting attractions and events. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach day, a stroll through picturesque gardens, or an adrenaline-packed adventure, Eastbourne has it all. From the iconic Beachy Head cliffs to the historic Redoubt Fortress, the town is steeped in rich history and natural beauty. Indulge in delicious seafood at the local restaurants, explore the vintage shops and boutiques, or catch a show at the iconic Congress Theatre. With its mild climate and stunning coastline, Eastbourne is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday.
