Top 10 things to do in Eastbourne

1. Beachy Head and Brighton

2. Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters

Travel further west from Beachy Head and you’ll enter Birling Gap, a small hamlet that’s slowly eroding. Keep going and you’ll find yourself in the Seven Sisters Country Park. This region boasts excellent walking and biking trails with spectacular views of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, Cuckmere Haven, Belle Tout and the Beachy Head lighthouses. Canoeing and birdwatching are other popular pastimes permitted in the park year-round depending on the weather.

3. Royal Hippodrome Theatre

Theatre-goers will swoon when taking in a show at one of Eastbourne’s oldest theatres. Opened in 1883, the Royal Hippodrome Theatre features three levels and seats 630. Everything from popular comedians to cover acts, academic talks and fairytale productions grace this prestigious stage. Royal Hippodrome Theatre programming is fun for the entire family. You’ll love this hidden gem when you visit Eastbourne as the theatre was recently restored to its former grandeur.

4. Eastbourne Beach and Pier

The sunny beaches of Eastbourne are like a siren call beckoning you to come and sunbathe. Enjoy swimming, windsurfing or refreshments at the cafes and painted beach huts along the promenade. The iconic Eastbourne Pier has been offering panoramic views of the English Channel since 1870, although its centre was destroyed by fire in 2014. Find some of the region’s best fish and chips shops, nightclubs, tea rooms and cafes along the pier. Get the quintessential British pier experience at Eastbourne Pier.

5. Battle Abbey (The Battle of Hastings Site)

History lovers will want to visit the nearby town of Battle which is where Harold the Saxon and William the Conqueror met for battle in 1066. Battle Abbey still stands and you can walk the same ground that oversaw one of the most infamous battles of all time, The Battle of Hastings. After visiting the site where the battle took place, perhaps you’d fancy browsing for antiques in nearby Lewes or Cliffe. Local farmers’ markets offer the promise of some of the best regional produce while there’s always a seat waiting for you at the friendly local pubs.

6. Eastbourne Vineyards and Rye Market

Eastbourne offers more than just beaches and battlefields. No visit is complete without stopping by one of the area’s vineyards for a wine tasting or tour. The Carr Taylor Vineyard has been pouring award-winning sparkling wines since 1971. If you’re searching for fresh seasonal produce or one-of-a-kind items made by local artisans, the Rye Farmers’ Market takes place every week. We would be happy to help you arrange a day excursion to both, as well as the best places to enjoy coffee and cake afterward!

7. Towner Art Gallery

Browse the best British and international contemporary art at the Towner Art Gallery during your holiday. Located near the seafront, this prestigious art gallery houses one of the best public art collections in the region, including pieces by Pablo Picasso, David Bomberg, Wolfgang Tillmans and Henry Moore. Observe oil paintings, watercolours, prints, etchings, sculptures, video art installations, ceramic objects and more during your gallery visit.

8. Hastings Aquarium

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with a visit to the Hastings Aquarium. Hands-on encounters make learning about exotic sea life fun and interactive. An underwater tunnel gives you a close-up view of sea turtles, reef sharks and schools of colourful fish. The Blue Reef Aquarium is home to over 3,500 sea creatures representing over 250 species from around the world including octopuses, jellyfish, rays, pufferfish and many more.

9. Sovereign Harbour Marina

You’ll find Sovereign Harbour Marina just east of Eastbourne in Sussex. Cruise along the South Coast in style with easy access to the many waterfront wine bars, restaurants and cafes located near the marina. The adjacent retail park provides plenty of places to shop, dine, stroll and people-watch. Enjoy over five miles of scenic walkways and guided sightseeing tours aboard the African Queen to experience the beauty of this harbour firsthand. Sovereign Harbour Marina is a year-round must-see destination.

10. South Downs Way / South Downs National Park

Hiking, cycling and nature enthusiasts will appreciate a day spent at South Downs Way, a national trail that spans across the South Downs National Park. The trail stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne, providing scenic views off the beaten path. Hundreds of different routes accommodate hikers of all experience and fitness levels. Plenty of places to rest your legs and enjoy a quick bite to eat also dot one of England’s most popular national walking trails.