Eastbourne

Holywell

Tucked beneath the cliffs of Beachy Head, Holywell offers one of Eastbourne's most peaceful coastal settings. Once known for its healing spring waters, the area today combines dramatic chalk scenery with the Italian Gardens, Helen Garden and quieter stretches of beach away from the busy promenade.

Martello Tower

The Wish Tower, Eastbourne's best-known Martello Tower, was built in 1805 to defend the coast against Napoleonic invasion. Later used as a coastguard station and wartime battery, the circular tower remains a striking reminder of Eastbourne's military and defensive past beside the seafront.

A Victorian seaside resort where elegance, culture and the South Downs meet the English Channel.

Eastbourne Theatres (Congress, Winter Garden & Devonshire Park)

Eastbourne's theatre complex combines Victorian elegance with modern entertainment. The Congress Theatre hosts major productions and concerts, while the historic Winter Garden and beautifully restored Devonshire Park Theatre reflect the town's long-standing commitment to culture, architecture and seaside entertainment.

Eastbourne Bandstand

Opened in 1935, Eastbourne Bandstand is one of Britain's most distinctive seafront music venues. Its blue domed roof and semi-circular design overlook the promenade, while concerts, tribute acts and famous fireworks evenings continue the Victorian tradition of seaside entertainment beside the sea.

Eastbourne Beach

Stretching for miles along the Sussex coast, Eastbourne Beach combines wide shingle shores with sweeping Channel views. From lively family areas near the pier to quieter sections beneath Beachy Head, the beach remains central to the town's enduring popularity as a traditional seaside resort.

Carpet Gardens

Created in 1880 beside the promenade, the Carpet Gardens became one of Eastbourne's best-loved Victorian landmarks. Famous for colourful geometric planting displays, the gardens recently underwent a controversial redesign focused on sustainability, sparking strong debate about tradition, appearance and the future.

Eastbourne Pier

Opened in 1870, Eastbourne Pier remains one of the town's most recognisable landmarks. Stretching elegantly into the English Channel, the Victorian structure has survived storms, war and fire while continuing to offer classic seaside entertainment, panoramic coastal views and a lasting symbol of Eastbourne itself.

The Royal Hippodrome

The Royal Hippodrome is Eastbourne's oldest theatre and one of its most historic entertainment venues. Opened in 1883, it hosted legendary performers including Charlie Chaplin and Harry Houdini, while recent restoration work has helped revive the theatre's popularity and distinctive Victorian character.

Eastbourne Town Hall

Completed in 1886, Eastbourne Town Hall reflects the confidence and ambition of Victorian Eastbourne. Its grand Renaissance-style façade, clock tower and richly decorated interiors have witnessed civic celebrations, royal visits and wartime history, remaining one of the town's most impressive historic buildings.

Next Stop

Don't forget to watch, read and download the accompanying tourist guide called 'Eastbourne — Further Afield.' The guide covers attractions outside the Eastbourne area including Pevensey Castle, Sovereign Harbour, Gildredge Manor, Beachy Head, Seven Sisters, Alfriston and Berwick Church.