Looking for the best things to do in Eastbourne? Nestled on England’s stunning South Coast, Eastbourne is a charming Victorian seaside town known for its long beaches, iconic white cliffs, and historic landmarks. We recently planned a long weekend to Eastbourne so we could explore the nearby Seven Sisters Cliffs, one of the UK’s most famous landscapes. Whilst we there we discovered great range of other things to do in Eastbourne and the surrounding area.
Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or enjoying a longer Eastbourne break, it’s an ideal holiday destination. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your own visit. We’ll show you the best things to do in Eastbourne and share practical information on how to get there, accommodation and places to eat.
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Walk the promenade along Eastbourne Beach
One of the top things to do in Eastbourne is take a scenic walk along the seafront. This is a great way to start your visit and get a good feel for the place.
Stretching from Holywell to Sovereign Harbour, the promenade offers stunning sea views and passes several key Eastbourne attractions, including the pier, the Redoubt Fortress, the Wish Tower and the Italian Gardens.
It’s a fantastic way to get your first breath of sea air and ease yourself into your Eastbourne getaway. Along the way there’s plenty to see and you can stop for traditional fish and chips or an ice-cream.
Have fun on the pier
One of the most famous attractions along the promenade is the iconic Eastbourne Pier, a beautifully preserved Victorian landmark that has graced the seafront since 1870. Stretching proudly out into the sea, the pier offers a nostalgic charm and great views of the coastline.
Admission to the pier is completely free, making it one of the top free things to do in Eastbourne. We couldn’t resist trying our luck in the amusement arcades, but for a classic British seaside experience, you can pop into the elegant Victorian Tea Rooms for a cream tea.
Need a place to stay? Check rates and availability for hotels and holiday cottages in Eastbourne.
Chill on the beach
Eastbourne has over 3 miles of beach, which goes all the way from Holyhead to the marina. The groynes provide a perfect shelter and on a sunny day you can hire sun loungers and deckchairs. If you want to swim, the beaches are patrolled by lifeguards from May to September. These are located near the Wish Tower.
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Admire Eastbourne Bandstand
Whilst you are walking along the beachfront, look out for Eastbourne’s famous bandstand.
Built in the 1930s, this art deco venue is one of the UK’s busiest bandstands. It’s a popular venue in the summer months, hosting over 140 performances each year!
Hike the Seven Sisters Cliffs Trail
Arguably one of the most iconic places to visit near Eastbourne, the Seven Sisters Cliffs hike is one of the most breathtaking coastal walks in England. We found it a challenging walk but loved every minute. This popular route stretches from Seaford to Eastbourne, following the dramatic white chalk cliffs of the South Downs National Park. It was one of our top reasons for visiting Eastbourne and we’d highly recommend it.
You can also book a tour to Seven Sisters:
Or, if you want to soak up the views of the Seven Sisters Cliffs without the big trek, you could go to the Seven Sisters Country Park and do an easier circular walk from there.
Take a panoramic bus tour
For first-timers to Eastbourne, the open-top Hop-on, Hop-off Eastbourne Bus Tour is a fun and easy way to explore the town. As the name suggests you can get on and off as you please at Eastbourne’s top attractions, including the pier, Lifeboat Museum, Belle Tout Lighthouse, and Beachy Head.
Tickets for the sightseeing bus are valid for 24 hours and audio commentary is available on the bus.
Need a place to stay? Check rates and availability for hotels and holiday cottages in Eastbourne.
Explore Sovereign Harbour & Marina
If you’re looking for relaxing places to visit in Eastbourne, a trip to Sovereign Harbour is a must. Located on the eastern edge of town, this modern marina complex is one of the largest in northern Europe and offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning waterfront views.
Sovereign Harbour has four harbours, boutique shops, and a selection of waterfront restaurants. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a lunch by the water, sip coffee as boats drift by, or simply watch the lock system in action.
Or, if you want a more close up view of the harbour, book a short boat trip around the marina.
We enjoyed a scenic 2.5-mile beachfront walk from Eastbourne Pier to the harbour along the King Charles III England Coast Path, which took around an hour. It’s a flat, easy route with coastal views, making it a great option for a leisurely stroll during your Eastbourne weekend break.
If you prefer not to walk, hop aboard the Dotto Mini Train, which runs along the Eastbourne seafront between the pier and Sovereign Harbour. It’s a fun and convenient way to see the sights, which kids will love!
Walk to Beachy Head
If you like hiking, one of the best things to do near Eastbourne is the circular walk to Beachy Head, England’s highest chalk cliff. The walk is about 5 miles and goes to East Dean, where you can stop at the pub before taking a bus back.
If you prefer, you could do an out-and-back walk from Eastbourne to Beachy Head. You’ll get great coastal views and can see the iconic red and white Beachy Head Lighthouse.
Take a ride on a miniature train
If you’re looking for things to do in Eastbourne for kids or a fun family day out, head to Eastbourne’s Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park.
Start your visit with a ride on the one-eighth scale miniature locomotive, which takes you on a one-mile journey around the lake. It’s a gentle, relaxing ride that kids (and adults!) absolutely love.
Afterwards, return to the adventure park, where the fun continues with:
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A round of crazy golf
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A giant maze
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An exciting playground with a dedicated area just for under-fives
Admission includes entry to all attractions, plus one train ride—making it excellent value and a perfect choice for family-friendly things to do in Eastbourne.
With so much to see and do, the Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park is one of the top Eastbourne places to visit for families with young children.
Visit the Towner Art Gallery
If you’re a fan of art, don’t miss the Towner Eastbourne, an award-winning gallery with a bold, colourful façade painted by artist Lothar Götz. Inside, you’ll find a collection of modern art from national and international artists.
Entry to the main gallery is free, but there is an admission charge for some temporary exhibitions.
Visit the Birling Gap
If you’re looking for a day trip, make sure to stop by the Birling Gap Visitor Centre, a National Trust site nestled beneath the Seven Sisters Cliffs. It’s just a short drive or hike and is one of the best things to do near Eastbourne for nature lovers and walkers.
Inside the visitor centre, you’ll find displays about coastal erosion, wildlife, and the geology of the cliffs, and staff who can advise on walking routes and tide times. There’s also a cliff-top café serving light bites and hot drinks.
From here, you can use the staircase to get to the pebble beach below, or set off on one of the many South Downs hiking trails.
Visit the Wish Tower
The Wish Tower is a fascinating slice of local history. It’s one of the original 74 Martello Towers built along the coast in the 1800s to defend against Napoleon. It is set within a peaceful garden space, so is a great spot for a picnic or casual stroll.
At the other end of the promenade, you’ll see the Redoubt Fortress, which was also built to defend the coast around Eastbourne. Unfortunately, it’s no longer open to the public, but you can still admire it from outside.
Pop into the Lifeboat Museum
Whilst you’re near the Wish Tower, pop into the RNLI Lifeboat Museum. Housed in the 1898 William Terriss Memorial Boathouse, this is a little museum with a big history. Discover stories of daring rescue missions during the war and learn about 200 years of lifesaving history in Eastbourne. Admission is free.
Opening hours: 10am – 4pm
Enjoy a drink with a view
If you are looking for more relaxed things to do in Eastbourne for couples, there are two amazing seafront restaurants with panoramic coastal views. Sip a glass of wine or enjoy a meal with breathtaking views over the English Channel.
Located in the pretty Redoubt Gardens, the Glasshouse is a modern restaurant serving locally sourced dishes in a relaxed setting. It’s the perfect stop after a walk along the beachfront, as it has great views and is sheltered from the wind.
At the other end of the Promenade, Bistrot Pierre is perfect for French all-day dining or enjoying a cocktail as the sun goes down. We recommend booking in advance on a sunny day, as it’s very popular. However, we dropped in on the off-chance and got a seat, so it’s always worth a try.
Visit in August for the Eastbourne International Airshow
One of the best times to plan your Eastbourne weekend break is in August, when it hosts the spectacular Eastbourne International Airshow.
This four-day event takes place along the Eastbourne seafront and offers breathtaking aerial displays from favourites such as the Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon, Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, and more. Beyond the skies, there’s plenty of family-friendly entertainment, including fireworks, live music, children’s activities, and concerts at the Eastbourne Bandstand. And what’s even better? The airshow is free to attend!
With such a vibrant atmosphere and free entertainment for all ages, the Eastbourne Airshow is one of the top things to do in Eastbourne for kids, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a lively summer escape by the coast.
This year the event takes place from 14th – 17th August.
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How to get to Eastbourne
Getting to Eastbourne is easy by car and by public transport.
By public transport
Regular, direct trains run from London Victoria to Eastbourne and take around 1 hour 30 minutes. There are also direct services from Gatwick Airport, which take under an hour.
You can also get local trains from Brighton or take the 12, 12A or 12X Brighton & Hove Coaster bus, which runs along the coastal road.
By car
If you’re coming by car, Eastbourne is very accessible. It is just 44 miles south of theM25, so only takes about 2 and a half hours’ drive from London. We travelled from Surrey, which took 2 hours.
Where to stay in Eastbourne
There’s plenty of options for accommodation in Eastbourne to suit all budgets. If money’s no object, stay at The Grand Hotel on the seafront.
If you want mid-range accommodation, look at The View Hotel or Hydro Hotel, both of which have excellent locations near the promenade. For a cheaper option, check out the Haddon Hall Hotel.
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What are your favourite things to do in Eastbourne? Let us know in the comments below.
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