×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Eastbourne 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In


Discovering the Best of Eastbourne

By Betsy Burlingame

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

Summary: Discover the charm of Eastbourne with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Eastbourne! If you're planning to move to Eastbourne, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Eastbourne has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Eastbourne.

Eastbourne, a charming seaside town on the south coast of England, offers a variety of attractions for both tourists and locals. One of the most iconic landmarks in Eastbourne is the Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, offering stunning views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. A visit to the Beachy Head Lighthouse, located at the foot of the cliffs, is also a must for those interested in maritime history.

Another popular attraction is the Eastbourne Pier, a Victorian-era structure that houses amusement arcades, cafes, and a nightclub. The pier is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, enjoying the sea views, and indulging in some traditional British seaside fun. The nearby Carpet Gardens, a beautifully landscaped area along the seafront, is an ideal place for a relaxing walk or a picnic.

For history enthusiasts, the Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum is a fascinating destination. Built during the Napoleonic Wars, the fortress now houses a museum showcasing the history of the British military from the 18th century to the present day. Another historical site worth visiting is the 15th-century Herstmonceux Castle, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and woodland.

Art lovers will enjoy the Towner Art Gallery, which features contemporary and modern art exhibitions, as well as a collection of works by renowned British artists such as Eric Ravilious and Henry Moore. The gallery also hosts various events and workshops throughout the year.

Eastbourne's Congress Theatre is a popular venue for live performances, including musicals, plays, and concerts. The theatre hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Eastbourne offers a diverse range of options for visitors and locals alike. One of the most popular restaurants in the town is The Green Almond, a vegetarian and vegan bistro that serves delicious, freshly prepared dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Another favorite is the Belgian Café, which offers an extensive menu of Belgian beers and traditional dishes such as moules-frites and waffles.

For a more upscale dining experience, the Mirabelle Restaurant at the Grand Hotel offers fine dining in an elegant setting, with a menu that features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The hotel also houses the Garden Restaurant, which serves a more casual menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

Eastbourne's nightlife offers a variety of options, from traditional British pubs to lively bars and clubs. The Dolphin, a popular pub located near the seafront, offers a wide selection of beers and ales, as well as live music and quiz nights. The Hart, another popular pub, is known for its friendly atmosphere and regular live music events.

For those looking for a more lively night out, Atlantis Nightclub on Eastbourne Pier is a popular destination, featuring a large dance floor and a variety of music genres. Alternatively, Cameo Nightclub offers themed nights and a range of music styles, ensuring a fun night out for everyone.

Recreational activities in Eastbourne cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the South Downs National Park offers numerous walking and cycling trails, as well as opportunities for horse riding and bird watching. The Seven Sisters Country Park, located within the national park, is a popular destination for hiking and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.

Water sports enthusiasts can head to the Eastbourne Sovereign Centre, which offers a variety of activities such as swimming, diving, and water polo. The nearby Spray Water Sports Centre also provides opportunities for windsurfing, sailing, and kayaking.

Golfers can enjoy a round at one of Eastbourne's several golf courses, including the Royal Eastbourne Golf Club and the Willingdon Golf Club. For those who prefer indoor activities, the David Lloyd Club offers a range of sports facilities, including tennis courts, a gym, and a swimming pool.

Finally, for families with children, the Fort Fun amusement park offers a variety of rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, a water park, and an indoor play area. The nearby Treasure Island Adventure Park also provides a range of family-friendly activities, such as mini-golf, a pirate ship, and a soft play area.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders
Get Quote

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
Get Quote

Insider Tips from Expats in Eastbourne: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Eastbourne, often join various clubs and activities to meet new people and integrate into the local community. These include sports clubs such as tennis, golf, and sailing clubs, which are popular due to Eastbourne's coastal location. There are also various fitness and wellness groups, such as yoga and pilates classes, which attract a diverse range of people.Cultural activities are also popular among expats, with many joining local theatre groups, art clubs, or music societies. Eastbourne has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theatres, and music venues, providing plenty of opportunities for expats to get involved.Language exchange groups are another popular activity for expats, as they provide an opportunity to improve English language skills while meeting locals and other expats. Similarly, cooking classes or wine tasting events can also be a fun way to meet new people and learn about British culture.In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats often meet people through local community events and festivals. Eastbourne hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including the Eastbourne International Airshow, the Eastbourne Festival, and the Eastbourne Carnival, which all provide great opportunities to socialize and meet locals.Volunteering is another excellent way for expats to meet people and give back to the community. There are numerous charities and community organizations in Eastbourne that welcome volunteers, and this can be a rewarding way to make connections and feel part of the local community.Finally, networking events and social gatherings organized by expat groups or international organizations can also be a good way to meet other expats and locals. These events are often advertised online or through social media, and can range from informal pub nights to more formal business networking events," said one expat living in Eastbourne.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders
Get Quote

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
Get Quote

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Eastbourne, is generally pleasant and comfortable. The town is known for its beautiful coastline and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal place for those who prefer a slower pace of life. The cost of living is relatively affordable compared to larger cities like London, and the local community is friendly and welcoming to foreigners. There are plenty of cafes and co-working spaces for digital nomads to work from, and the town's reliable internet connection makes it easy to stay connected. Eastbourne also has a good public transportation system, making it easy to explore the town and its surroundings. The town offers a variety of recreational activities, from hiking in the nearby South Downs National Park to enjoying a performance at the local theatre. There are also numerous pubs, restaurants, and shops to explore. Despite its small size, Eastbourne has a diverse food scene with a range of international cuisines available, catering to the tastes of its multicultural residents. The town also hosts several cultural and music festivals throughout the year, providing opportunities for expats and digital nomads to socialize and immerse themselves in the local culture.However, it's worth noting that Eastbourne has a relatively older population, which might not appeal to younger expats or digital nomads. The town's nightlife is also quite subdued compared to larger cities. Overall, Eastbourne offers a peaceful and comfortable lifestyle for expats and digital nomads, with its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly community, and affordable cost of living," commented an expat living in Eastbourne.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders
Get Quote

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.

Professional Property FindersProfessional Property Finders

This is a personal property finding service. I team up with a buyer and help you find the perfect property for your needs. I am your man on the ground and expert in the market. Whatever is important to you will be my mission to bring you what you want without all the stress whilst guiding and protecting you in the process.
Get Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

SJB GlobalSJB Global

SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
Learn More

Contribute to UK Network Contribute
Help others in UK by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in UK.

Professional Property Finders
Professional Property Finders

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides