Things To Do in Eastbourne

The UK is such an amazing place. 

It is just packed full of wonderful places to visit and while away the time.

Often we seem to forget that there is such beauty and culture around us, especially if we see it day in and day out.

I personally often forget how beautiful the local cathedral is, as I see it so often from a distance. It is only when I get up close again that I am reminded about the beauty.

One wonderful place full to the brim with things to do is Eastbourne in East Sussex. This southern coastal resort looks out across the English Channel and is near to the South Downs National Park. Eastbourne is also an award-winning UK destination, having won two awards at the Beautiful South Awards in 2016.

As such, I thought I would share with you 5 things you must do if you are ever in the area:

Towner Art Gallery

If the day is a bit wet or you fancy a bit of art, then the Towner Art Gallery is perhaps a good stop for you.

Featuring a range of contemporary art, with a unique programme of exhibitions, it is bound to have something incredible for you to look at.

The gallery itself is placed within the vibrant Cultural Quarter. It is set back from the seafront and as such not only offers beautiful artwork but a wonderful view of the coastline as well.

If you are one for learning a little bit more about the art on display keep a lookout for the talks and events that are often going on inside this interesting building.

Fizz on Foot

If you can’t have a tipple on holiday then when can you? 

So for those who love wine and fancy walking in the beautiful countryside of Eastbourne, while visiting some of the finest vineyards in the area then Fizz on Foot is for you. Perfect for enjoying some of the stunning views over the countryside.

It isn’t all about wine though; as Fizz on Foot can also allow you to try some bespoke food. This means that you can tailor the tour to your group’s preferences.

Just remember to try not to drink too much on your first stop.

East of the Pier Heritage Trail

For those who like to explore at their leisure then the East of the Pier Heritage Trail might be just what you have been looking for.

Specifically designed to take in some of the hidden gems of the town on the east side of Eastbourne Pier, this self-guided tour allows you to follow the information boards, as well as offering a downloadable app which is free to download. As long as you download using wi-fi before you head out, you shouldn’t incur any data charges.

The whole trail is completely wheelchair friendly and will help you learn about the social and economic history of this beautiful place.

Eastbourne Bandstand

Named the busiest bandstand in the UK due to it hosting over 140 events each year, the Eastbourne Bandstand is well worth checking out.

They offer events ranging from tribute shows to the much loved 1812 Fireworks concerts. This means there is something for everyone to enjoy.

For a bit of history, the bandstand you see now was built in 1935. With its unique semi-circle design and blue roof it really is something to behold. Would you believe it holds a massive 1,400 people across the main area and middle and upper balconies?

Herstmonceux Castle

This beautiful castle is set in 550 acres of woodland and gardens. While sadly the castle isn’t open to the public, the grounds still offer a lot to do.

Things to do here include a pretty little Victorian tea room, visitors centre, walking trail and of course for the little ones, you can’t miss out on the woodland play area.

If you happen to like taking your pooch on holiday with you, then never fear as dogs are welcomed into the grounds as long as they are kept on a lead.

Michelham Priory House & Gardens

OK, I totally admit there is a theme of historical buildings running through this, but I can’t help it – I love them!

Wondering about who walked there before you, what they wore, what they were thinking. It is all just so interesting, if only they were questions we could answer in some ways.

This time we are looking at Michelham Priory House & Gardens. This stunning house is surrounded by England’s longest medieval water-filled moat. Incredibly it dates back to 1229 and features over 800 years of history.

The history of the house itself is incredible as it features a foundation being laid by Augustinian canons, damage caused by the Tudors thanks to the dissolution of the monasteries and, of course, its later life as a country manor house.

The grounds of this stunning home also include beautiful gardens, a working watermill and a cafe where you can enjoy a cream tea.

Eastbourne Beaches

Eastbourne has over three miles of beaches which are a mixture of shingle and sand. Perfect for walks along the shore, playing with a bucket and spade if you’ve got the kids with you and there are even some opportunities to go rock pooling and see what you can find!

For the more adventurous amongst you, you could try windsurfing off Royal Parade or try fishing at Harbour Reach.

If the beach isn’t for you but you like to be near the water then why not take a wander round Sovereign Harbour Marina? Here you can marvel at the boats and pick out the yacht that you would buy if you could!

Hampden Park

If you fancy a relaxed stroll or taking part in some sports and recreation then Hampden Park is for you. There are large shady lawns, semi-natural woodland and a cafe in the middle for when you’re ready for a cuppa and a slice of cake. 

There’s plenty in the park to keep both young and old entertained.

If you prefer watching tennis to playing then Devonshire Park is a great alternative. It plays host to international tennis matches each June.

Other things to see and do in and around Eastbourne include the Belle Tout Lighthouse at Beachy Head, the highest chalk cliffs in Britain located in the Seven Sisters Country Park, Birling  Gap for a coastal walk and Redoubt Fortress, built to defend against Napoleon. 

If I have made you feel as though Eastbourne is a place you would like to visit please do head over to Visit Eastbourne to find out more about this stunning area of England.

What do you think of the sound of Eastbourne, would you like to visit?

Posted in collaboration with Visit Eastbourne.

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