Overview:

For a slightly quieter excursion than the noisier older brother that is Brighton, then think of Eastbourne. The seaside location offers a more relaxed atmosphere famed for its golden-oldies. The town is trying to lose its old age pensioner tag and attract a younger crowd. Making use of the great weather groups can enjoy the 4 miles long shingle beach and the title of the Sunniest place in Great Britain.

Getting Around:

Transport both into and around Eastbourne are excellent, with good road links to the surrounding area, and there are frequent rail services to Brighton, Hastings and also to London which is only 60 miles to the north. Bus services within the town are generally good and there are excellent but few and far between local taxi firms operating both from the town centre and vicinity. The best form of transport is walking, soaking up the sun and sea air! There is also a decent bus service that operates out of the depot on Terminus Road.

Must See/Must Do:

• Learn to sail, windsurf or kayak at Spray Water Sports Centre
• Enjoy lovely views from Beachy Head, Britain's highest chalk sea cliffs.
• Walk part (or all, if you're a bit crazy) of the 90 mile South Downs trail which begins in Eastbourne.
• Tour surrounding historic landmarks of the Norman conquest like Hastings and Pevensey Castles.
• Walk along the pretty Victorian Pier and visit the Camera Obscura.

History and Culture:

William the Conquerer landed in the area at the start of his 1066 conquest of England. Nearby Battle and Battle Abbey are close to the actual site of the bloody Battle of Hastings, a decisive moment in the Norman conquest. Today it's a popular seaside resort, especially for retirees to visit or live. The biggest event on its cultural calendar is the annual Airbourne air show, where the RAF Red Arrows often put on aerial displays.

Nightlife:

Eastbourne bandstand provides a focal point and hosts concerts from Tribute Bands to Traditional Concerts through-out the year from May to September plus special Easter, Christmas and Boxing Day concerts ever since the 1930’s.  There are nightclubs, like Tjs on Terminus Rd, but try Pevensey and Langney roads as well, and Atlantis on the Pier is a popular destination.  For visitors of a certain age, the Deluxe Bingo Club might be just the ticket.