Best 20 things to do in Eastbourne, United Kingdom

Welcome to Eastbourne, where the seagulls are determined to snatch your fish and chips right out of your hands! If you're looking for a good time in this quaint seaside town, don't miss the chance to ride the rickety rollercoaster at the pier – it's like a thrilling adventure mixed with a chiropractic session. Take a stroll along the picturesque Birling Gap, but be prepared for an impromptu sand exfoliation treatment courtesy of the windy coastline. Don't worry, though, because at least you won't need to pay for a spa day afterwards!

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1. Beachy Head

4.8 (1013)

Beachy Head, Eastbourne BN20, UK

Welcome to Beachy Head in Eastbourne, the ultimate haven for those seeking a laugh-packed adventure! Brace yourself for glorious cliffs that rise majestically like a magnificent comb-over gone wild. Get ready to gasp at the breathtaking views, as though someone has unrolled a carpet of beauty and accidentally spilled scenery all over it. And for the daredevils out there, why not try your luck at some extreme bird-watching? Just keep an eye out for those seagulls planning their aerial bombardment on your ice cream! Nestled on the stunning South Downs, Beachy Head offers an explosive combination of natural wonders and cheeky British humor. Explore the fantastical rock formations that resemble sculptures crafted by a playful giant toddler, giving you the sense that you've stumbled into a Stone Age theme park designed by Salvador Dali. But don't let that deceive you - the cliffs are a monument to cautionary tales, a reminder that even the most picturesque view can tempt you to take that one step too far, transforming your holiday selfies into a splashy photo finish. For those yearning to mingle with the local bird population, Beachy Head promises a captivating show of feisty seagulls mastering the art of food snatching. As you witness these agile aviators execute their expert fly-bys, be prepared to become an unwitting contestant in their game of "Who Wears the Sauce-stained T-Shirt?" So keep your snacks hidden and your wits sharp to avoid becoming a target while enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. So, gather your courage and your camera, because at Beachy Head, adventure and laughter go hand in hand. This is where nature meets wit, where serenity meets hilarity, and where you may just find yourself in fits of giggles while exploring this exquisite coastal gem.

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2. Fort Fun

4.2 (691)

Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7LQ, UK

Welcome to Fort Fun, the ultimate coastal adventureland in Eastbourne – where fun, laughter, and questionable sunburns await! This vibrant, action-packed amusement park boasts an array of attractions that will have you screaming in delight (or maybe just screaming for mercy). Get ready to battle the roaring waves in our wild waterpark, race your friends on go-karts that may or may not have seen better days, and, if you're feeling particularly brave, take on the daunting challenge of navigating through a maze that is suspiciously designed like a labyrinth. All this and more at Fort Fun – where your boundaries will be tested, your sunscreen will be futile, and your memories will be anything but ordinary.

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3. Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum

4.2 (517)

Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN22 7AQ, UK

Nestled in the charming coastal town of Eastbourne, the Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum stands as a symbol of England's endless struggle to protect its shores from invaders (and occasional seagull mischief). As you step foot on its grounds, prepare to be transported back in time (just mentally, please, as time travel isn't available yet) to an era of cannons, musket fire, and solid mustaches. With its informative exhibits, booming historical reenactments, and suspiciously strategic placement near an ice cream parlor, the Redoubt Fortress & Military Museum promises an adventure that will make even the most dedicated couch potatoes stand at attention.

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4. Eastbourne Sports Park

4.2 (156)

Ecat House, Cross Levels Way, Eastbourne BN21 2UF, UK

Welcome to Eastbourne Sports Park, the perfect place for sports enthusiasts and the accidental trippers who somehow ended up here instead of the famous pier. This sprawling recreational haven offers a range of activities, from football and rugby to yoga and pilates, ensuring everyone can find something to do while desperately avoiding the seagulls that have a notorious reputation for dive-bombing unsuspecting visitors. With its gorgeous green fields and state-of-the-art facilities, this is where you can sweat out all those fish and chips you indulged in yesterday, while trying to spot the ever-elusive British sunshine.

www.sporteastbourne.co.uk

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5. Eastbourne Heritage Centre

4.8 (34)

2 Carlisle Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4BT, UK

In the heart of Eastbourne lies a hidden gem that locals lovingly refer to as the Eastbourne Heritage Centre – a delightful concoction of history, nostalgia, and curious artifacts. Prepare to be transported back in time as you step into this treasure trove of peculiar knick-knacks and bewildering wonders. From ancient relics to quirky keepsakes, this place is a haven for time-travel enthusiasts and lovers of all things peculiar – just don't forget your monocle!

www.eastbourneheritagecentre.co.uk

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6. Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum

4.5 (270)

King Edwards Pde, Eastbourne BN21 4BY, UK

Welcome to the Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum, a charming little gem nestled by the sea that showcases the heroic tales of fearless lifeboat crews! Step into this nautical haven and prepare to be swept away by enchanting tales of maritime misadventures. From daring rescues to bizarre mishaps, this quirky museum offers an amusing window into the tumultuous world of life-saving on the high seas. So grab your imaginary life jacket and get ready to sail into a sea of captivating anecdotes!

rnli.org

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7. Towner Art Gallery

4.5 (1023)

Devonshire Park, College Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4JJ, UK

Welcome to Towner Art Gallery in Eastbourne, where art and cheeky seaside charm collide! This captivating gem showcases a dazzling array of contemporary masterpieces that will make even your Granny ponder the meaning of life while scratching her head. When visiting, be prepared to embark on a whirlwind journey through artistic brilliance, with no escape route for those who are "artistically challenged." Brace yourself for a wild ride of creativity, where the walls come alive with paintings that have more personality than the average politician.

www.townereastbourne.org.uk

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8. Sovereign Harbour Marina

4.5 (1197)

Marina Office, North Lock Side, Midway Quay, Pacific Dr, Eastbourne BN23 5BJ, UK

Welcome to Sovereign Harbour Marina in Eastbourne, where boats dock among seagulls that think they own the place. With its grand entrance, this marina is like the red carpet of the sea, impressing even Poseidon himself. Indulge in a delightful mix of luxury yachts, glistening waters, and the occasional sailor who has a knack for getting tangled in their own rigging.

www.premiermarinas.com

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9. Seven Sisters Country Park

4.8 (4899)

E Dean Rd, Seaford BN25 4AD, UK

Welcome to Seven Sisters Country Park, where the rolling hills are so beautiful they make the sheep look like they're auditioning for a shampoo commercial. Lose yourself in the breathtaking views of the iconic chalk cliffs that have more layers than a mouth-watering chocolate cake. So grab your walking shoes and prepare to be blown away, both by the windswept landscape and by the sheer number of Instagram-worthy selfies you'll be forced to take.

www.sevensisters.org.uk

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10. Eastbourne Seafront

4.8 (26)

Eastbourne BN20 7XB, UK

Welcome to Eastbourne Seafront, the place where sandcastles reign supreme and seagulls roam like the unruly wannabe pirates of the sky. As you amble down the promenade, prepare to be hypnotized by the rhythmic crashing of waves, while dodging the occasional stray frisbee like a pro. Don't forget to grab an ice cream cone (the larger, the better) and join the hordes of determined adults and kids alike, all desperately attempting to devour their frozen treat before the sun melts it into a sticky mess.

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11. Congress Theatre

4.6 (1163)

Carlisle Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4BP, UK

Nestled in the charming seaside town of Eastbourne, the Congress Theatre stands tall, like a well-behaved giant in suede shoes. With its impressive architectural design resembling a cheeky wink from the 1960s, this venue is not your typical grandma's bingo hall. Prepare to be immersed in a world where laughter echoes and dreams come to life, all while savoring the aroma of overpriced popcorn that tastes suspiciously like adventure. So pack your sense of humor and get ready for a night of razzle-dazzle at the Congress Theatre, where they'll make your heart sing and your sides split, in the most legal way possible.

www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk

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12. Eastbourne Downs Golf Club

Eastbourne Downs Golf Club, E Dean Rd, Eastbourne BN20 8ES, UK

Nestled amidst the charming town of Eastbourne, lies the Eastbourne Downs Golf Club, a haven for golf enthusiasts who like to channel their inner Tiger Woods but with a slightly less intimidating handicap. With its sprawling greens and rolling fairways, this golf course offers a delightful challenge that will have you swinging your clubs with a mixture of precision and the occasional wild hope that your ball might actually go where you want it to. So dust off your golf tees, fasten your plus fours, and prepare for a day full of laughter, expletives, and maybe, just maybe, a hole-in-one that will make you momentarily forget how terrible you are at this beautiful game.

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13. Eastbourne Pier

4.2 (11349)

Eastbourne Pier Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3EL, UK

Welcome to Eastbourne Pier, where walking on wooden planks takes you back in time, or possibly to the nearest pirate convention. It stretches out majestically into the sea, like a really determined seagull trying to break the world record for farthest flight attempt... but never quite managing it. Once you've finished dodging seagull bombs, take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the colorful array of distractions offered, from classic arcade games that were probably last updated when dinosaurs roamed the earth, to a variety of food options that can only be described as fish and chips with a side of sea spray.

www.eastbournepier.com

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14. Eastbourne Golf Park

4.4 (142)

E Dean Rd, Eastbourne BN20 8ES, UK

Nestled in the charming town of Eastbourne, lies the Eastbourne Golf Park - a quirky sanctuary for golf enthusiasts and those seeking a fairway adventure. As you navigate its rolling hills and treacherous bunkers, be prepared to make peace with your golf balls, for they have a peculiar fondness for serenading the resident ducks in their watery haven. Enjoy the great British weather as you improve your swing, and keep an eye out for the infamous "Squirrel Caddy" who may offer sage advice and sneaky snacks to enhance your game.

www.eastbournedownsgolfclub.com

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15. Eastbourne Rovers Model Boat Club

5 (1)

Wartling Rd, Eastbourne BN22 7PR, UK

Welcome to Eastbourne Rovers Model Boat Club, where enthusiasts gather to navigate the miniature seas with their trusty vessels! Situated in the picturesque town of Eastbourne, this club is more than just a bunch of grown-ups playing with toy boats - it's a captivating spectacle that will float your boat, quite literally. Get ready to witness the triumphs and occasional titanic disasters as captains navigate their ships through treacherous waters, all while maintaining the utmost seriousness lest a rogue seagull mistakes their prized yacht for a contender in the avian olympics.

edmyc.org.uk

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16. Helen Garden

4.5 (968)

King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne BN20 7XL, UK

Nestled in the heart of Eastbourne, Helen Garden is an oasis of tranquility that effortlessly combines a splash of horticulture with a pinch of quirky charm. Strolling through this verdant wonderland, you'll encounter an array of exotic flora, but don't be surprised if you also stumble upon a strategically placed gnome or a slightly mischievous squirrel. So take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and let Helen Garden be your delightful escape to a world where flowers bloom with a mischievous twinkle in their petals!

www.lewes-eastbourne.gov.uk

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17. Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park

4.8 (1229)

Lottbridge Drove, Eastbourne BN23 6QJ, UK

Welcome to the charming Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park, where you can unleash your inner locomotive enthusiast without actually having to ride the rails. As you chug along the 5/8ths scale miniature steam railway, be prepared to wave at fellow passengers with a bizarre mix of excitement and confusion – it's like being in a tiny real-life Thomas the Tank Engine episode! Afterward, hop off the train and explore the adventure park, where everything is purposefully miniature, reminding you that sometimes big things do come in small packages – especially when it comes to pint-sized amusement!

www.emsr.co.uk

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18. Shinewater Park

Shinewater Pk, Eastbourne, UK

Welcome to Shinewater Park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Eastbourne! Prepare to embark on a whimsical adventure through this park, where nature meets hilarity. Not only will you be greeted by a plethora of serene lakes and blooming gardens, but also by squirrels performing Shakespearean soliloquies and ducks putting on a synchronized swimming show that would rival the Olympics. So, grab your camera and your sense of humor, because Shinewater Park will have you laughing and ooh-ing in equal measure!

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19. Eastbourne Bandstand

4.5 (1631)

Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3AD, UK

Welcome to the Eastbourne Bandstand, where music and chuckles harmoniously collide! This magnificent seaside venue is like the ultimate stage for performers who prefer the symphony of seagulls over the traditional orchestra. Experience the sheer brilliance of musicians battling gusts of wind while simultaneously trying not to break a sweat in this uniquely thrilling musical wonderland. Prepare to have your ears and funny bone tickled simultaneously, but don't forget your windproof umbrella!

www.eastbournebandstand.co.uk

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20. Devonshire Quarter

4.8 (11)

Devonshire Park, College Rd, Eastbourne BN21 4JJ, UK

Welcome to Eastbourne's Devonshire Quarter, where the charming streets are as lively as a caffeinated flamingo. Prepare to journey through a zany maze of independent boutiques, mouth-watering eateries, and deliciously eclectic bars. This quirky quarter will make you feel like Alice in Wonderland, minus the tea party with a hare and a dormouse.

www.conferenceeastbourne.com

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Eastbourne by plane is to fly into London Gatwick Airport and then take the Gatwick Express train to Eastbourne station, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Eastbourne by car is to take the A22 road from London, which takes approximately 2 hours depending on traffic.

Train

The best way to get to Eastbourne by train is to take the Southern Railway service from London Victoria station to Eastbourne station, which takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Eastbourne by boat as the town does not have a port. The closest ports are in Newhaven and Dover, which are approximately 30 minutes and 1 hour and 30 minutes away by car respectively.

Bus

The best way to get to Eastbourne by bus is to take the National Express service from London Victoria Coach Station to Eastbourne bus station, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

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