Situated in East Sussex, Eastbourne is a quintessential English seaside resort town that attracts hordes of visitors during the UK’s summer spells.
(Photo: John Mason via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)
Just over an hour by train from London, the town is a popular day trip and weekend break destination thanks in large part to its endless blue skies and pristine beaches. But there’s more to Eastbourne than its natural attractions, with a large number of great things to see and do – none of which need hit you too hard in the pocket. We’ve picked out 5 of the best Eastbourne activities and attractions that are either eminently affordable or completely free of charge.
Enjoy a scenic stroll along the pier
There are few more distinctive seaside landmarks than a pleasure pier. Jutting out into the English Channel, Eastbourne Pier has all of the bells and whistles that we associate with these long, raised protrusions, including rides, souvenir shops, fish and chips vendors, tea rooms, and more. Entrance onto the pier is entirely free, and while it’s dangerously easy to spend money once you’re on it – particularly if you’ve got kids in tow – it’s also a great spot for simply strolling along, watching the fisherman and crab catchers inaction, and soaking up the sea views.
Eastbourne Pier Grand Parade
Take in some modern art
A visitor peruses artwork at Towner Eastbourne (Photo: Towner Eastbourne)
Like in so many bustling tourist towns, Eastbourne has a thriving local arts scene and, along with a smattering of independent galleries, at its beating heart is Towner Eastbourne. Free to enter, this renowned award-winning art gallery is home to a vast collection of contemporary British art, including the largest body of work by 20th-century painter Eric Ravilious, best known for his watercolours of the South Downs. The gallery also has its own cinema, where regular screenings of films and documentaries take place.
Devonshire Park, College Road / Tues-Sun 10am-5pm Closed Mon
Learn about the town’s rich lifeboating heritage
Another indoor attraction for when the UK weather lets you down, Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum tells the story of almost two centuries of local lifesaving history. Built in 1898 in an old boathouse, the museum is packed full of exhibits that cover daring rescues and the evolution of search and rescue technology down the years. Highlights includes an original lifeboat that took part in the evacuation of Allied troops from Dunkirk during WWII.
King Edward’s Parade / Mon-Sun 10am-4pm
Enjoy a hike atop sheer chalk cliffs
Seven Sisters cliffs seen from Birling Gap at low tide (Photo: Geoff Henson via Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0 DEED)
The point at which the famous Seven Sister chalk cliffs of the South Downs meet the sea, Birling Gap is one of the natural jewels in the region’s crown. Overlooking one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline anywhere on the south coast, the popular tourist spot draws large numbers throughout the year, who flock here for the opportunity to enjoy bracing wind-swept walks with magnificent views. There are also steps down to the beach where you’ll regularly see fossil hunters hard at work. A National Trust info centre and a café add to the site’s attractions.
Listen to a live bandstand performance
Almost as quintessentially British as a seaside pier is a bandstand – and Eastbourne’s is as charming as they get. Built in 1935, the blue-domed Eastbourne Bandstand plays host to frequent concerts by everyone from tribute acts to military bands, as well as fireworks concerts. Venture to the rear of the landmark and you’ll see a special commemorative plaque in memory of Eastbourne bandsman John Wesley Woodward, who was performing on the Titanic when it sank in 1912. All bandstand shows are free to the public.
Grand Parade / Mon-Sun 9.30am-10pm
By Paul Joseph