Promising some of the best UK weather, an unspoilt seaside town, known as the ‘sunshine coast’, sits just 80 minutes from London, with a grand pleasure pier and free annual airshow
Nothing says the British summer like a trip to the beach, and luckily for us, there’s a charming seaside town just 80 minutes from London – and it’s in one of the UK’s sunniest spots!
With the summer in full swing, the thought of dipping into some lapping waves and relaxing on a golden beach couldn’t come soon enough. Even more so when there are promises of that traditional seaside fun that evokes nostalgia, with childlike games on the stretching pier, a ride on the mini train and a classic Victorian promenade to stroll along in the sea breeze.
Nestled along the south coast in East Sussex is the seaside town of Eastbourne, known for its grand pleasure pier and dramatic white chalk cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters. Thanks to its location, sitting close to continental Europe, Eastbourne benefits from its own microclimate and welcomes almost 1,900 hours of sunshine every year.
In fact, it’s known as one of the sunniest places in the UK and has often been dubbed the ‘sunshine coast’. The best part is that there are plenty of budget-friendly stays on offer whether you’re after charming seaside cottages, seafront apartments, or cheap hotels.
The town hosts plenty of major events, including the tennis tournament, Rothesay International Eastbourne, held every year in June before Wimbledon, as well as Europe’s largest free annual seafront airshow, Airbourne, which draws in crowds in August. (This year it will be held from 13 to 16 August).
The town is also known for its iconic contemporary gallery, Towner Eastbourne, which houses an extensive collection of modern British and international contemporary art. Having first opened in 1923, the art gallery has won numerous awards and is a major draw for Eastbourne, with its colourful, vibrant facade just a short walk from the beach.
Another part of the coastline is the Sovereign Harbour, known as northern Europe’s largest composite marina complex, with four linked harbours. It’s also a thriving hub with a waterfront shopping area and a collection of restaurants where you can enjoy a meal al fresco while watching the comings and goings of the marina.
Boat trips are available to book from the marina, and there are also walks to enjoy, including along the outer harbour. If you stroll along to the beaches by Harbour Arm West or East, you’ll be able to see several Napoleonic Martello Towers, which were a part of England’s sea defences.
Aside from the marina, art gallery, and traditional seaside fun in Eastbourne, there are plenty more attractions in the area to keep the kids entertained or to take a break from the sun. From the Jump’n Fun Inflatable Park, the nearby zoo, Drusillas Zoo Park, and the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway (E.M.S.R) Adventure Park, to the Royal Hippodrome Theatre, which has a variety of shows available to book.
For avid walkers, it’s well worth making the most of the beautiful scenery around East Sussex, with easy access from Eastbourne to Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters clifftop trails. If you’re up for a hike, there’s a 10-mile walking route from Exceat to Meads, offering breathtaking views of the towering white chalk sea cliffs in East Sussex.
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