19 Best Things to Do: Ultimate Eastbourne, UK Bucket List

A trip to the "National Trust - Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters" is a must for nature lovers! These chalk cliffs offer mesmerizing views of the English Channel, not to mention the unrivaled beauty of the Seven Sisters cliffs - a true gem of Eastbourne. Explore the dynamic coastline at their interactive visitor center. Trivia: The Seven Sisters are one of the most famous suicide sites in the world, which is a depressing fact, but adds to the mysterious aura of the place. Nearby is Beachy Head, another dramatic landmark.

Drusillas Park in Eastbourne is your ticket to a captivating world of animal encounters and thrilling rides. Exotic creatures like red pandas, lemurs, and penguins will enchant you, while children enjoy the Hello Kitty Secret Garden and its themed attractions. Don't miss the rainforest carousel that captures the imagination. Just a short drive away is Beachy Head, the UK's highest chalk cliff, which offers breathtaking views of the English Channel. Learn more at the Beachy Head Visitor Centre.

Eastbourne Pier, an iconic Victorian marvel by the sea, is a must-see! Stroll along the wooden boardwalk and enjoy panoramic sea views. The pier offers numerous amenities, from an arts and crafts market to a nostalgic treasure hunt in an old-fashioned penny arcade. End your stroll with a serving of fish and chips at the pier's café. Just a stone's throw away, the enchanting Carpet Gardens await you right on the boardwalk, another hidden gem showing off its exotic floral splendor!

Immerse yourself in the tranquil charm of Eastbourne Beach, a pebbled wonder adorned by the azure kiss of the English Channel. Enjoy the breathtaking sea views, Victorian-era shelters, and playful beach huts that add to the turquoise panorama. Perfect for sunbathing, a picnic or a walk on the pier, you can really relax here. In fact, unmissable! Nearby, the icon of Napoleonic history, Redoubt Fortress, is just a stone's throw away. Chat with the seagulls and sample the local seafood - an authentic Eastbourne experience!

Experience history up close at Pevensey Castle! The former Roman fortress and Norman keep are a magnificently preserved architectural relic. Feel the ancient stones under your hands and imagine the battles they have survived. The breathtaking panoramic view from the walls is a photographer's delight. Just around the corner is the charming Pevensey Courthouse Museum & Gaol, which offers a glimpse into local history and the ancient justice system. An afternoon in Pevensey offers an unforgettable glimpse into England's rich and storied past.

Immerse yourself in the serenity of Western Lawns, Eastbourne. Enjoy the magnificent sea views from this lush green space. It's an idyllic spot for picnics, peaceful walks or just to enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Play a game of boules on the hidden court among the trees - a local secret! Just a stone's throw away is the iconic Eastbourne Bandstand, where live concerts are held regularly - the perfect place for a day out in Eastbourne.

At Hampden Park, Eastbourne's largest park, you can enjoy the picturesque tranquility. Surrounded by fields, a lake and blooming flora, it's the perfect place for quiet walks, boisterous picnics and bird watching.

Immerse yourself in a quintessentially British wonderland with the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway! Climb aboard our charming miniature locomotives and travel along an atmospherically designed track. Authentic station furnishings make young and old feel like Gulliver in Lilliput. You can also enjoy a classic English tea in the charming café. Just a stone's throw away is Eastbourne Sovereign Harbour, where scenic coastal walks, boat trips, and fresh seafood restaurants await!

Princes Park is a must for any visitor to Eastbourne. It is an oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of the city with a beautiful boating lake at its heart. Perfect for leisurely strolls, bird watching or soccer matches in the open field, this tranquil park oozes charm. Immerse yourself in the history of the park, which opened in 1931! Just a short walk away is the historic Redoubt Fortress, a Napoleonic War-era structure that offers an exciting glimpse into the city's history. If you time it right, you might even catch a cricket match!

Experience picturesque Eastbourne Beach, where pebbles meet clear blue waters. Lined with Victorian hotels and cafes, the beach is ideal for a quiet stroll or a relaxing sunbath. Don't miss the historic Eastbourne Pier, which is just a stone's throw away!

A visit to Beachy Head Cliffs is an absolute must in Eastbourne! From their breathtaking height you have a stunning view of Eastbourne and the English Channel. Be mesmerized by the stunning white chalk cliffs that have been created over thousands of years. Experience a magical sunset that bathes the cliffs in heavenly hues. Don't miss the charming, historic lighthouse of Beachy Head, bravely standing against the waves. Nearby, the idyllic Seven Sisters Cliffs also beckon, offering a scenic hike for the adventurous.

Helen Garden in Eastbourne is an oasis of tranquility, offering stunning panoramic sea views. The classic rolling lawns are perfect for a peaceful picnic, while the lovingly tended Italian-style gardens are a riot of color. Impressive art sculptures are scattered throughout the grounds, a hidden gem reminiscent of the city's artistic heritage. Just a leisurely stroll away you'll find the epic Beachy Head cliffs, another must-see natural wonder with awe-inspiring views.

The Towner Eastbourne, a contemporary gallery with world-class exhibitions, is a must-see. Be enchanted by the unique art collections, including famous works by Henry Moore and Eric Ravilious. Delight in the Towner's South Downs-inspired exhibitions; its deep connection to the landscape gives it a unique local flavor. Just around the corner, you'll find the Devonshire Park Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances. Don't miss the cozy gallery store with exclusive artwork. Be sure to take time for a refreshing coffee in the elegant café overlooking the park.

Discover the ancient mystery of Eastbourne, Wilmington's Long Man. This tantalizingly obscure chalk figure etched into the South Downs Hillside is hundreds of years old. Numerous theories surround its origin, from prehistoric symbolism to 16th century creation. Take a photo of the spectacular 30-meter-long man from a distance and feel the energy surrounding this fascinating mystery. Nearby is Arlington Reservoir, a hidden gem for bird watching and quiet walks.

Discover the moving story of the RAF Bomber Command Memorial in Eastbourne, a moving tribute to the brave heroes who flew during World War II. Be swept away by the impressive atmosphere with engraved plaques commemorating their brave deeds. It's an awe-inspiring experience that goes beyond an ordinary tour and offers insights into local history. Just a short walk away, you can soak up the atmosphere in peaceful Princes Park or the fascinating Eastbourne Redoubt, proving that Eastbourne is more than just coastline and cream tea!

Wish Tower in Eastbourne is a true cultural gem not to be missed. Its historic charm tells a compelling story about England's past struggles. Wish Tower is one of only 74 Martello towers left in England that were built to defend against a Napoleonic invasion. It's a fascinating opportunity to step back in time and then take a relaxing stroll along the adjacent sun-drenched Eastbourne Beach. Also nearby is the world-famous Towner Art Gallery, an art lover's paradise showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary and classical art.

Venture off the beaten path and explore Gildredge Park - a charming oasis in the middle of Eastbourne. Write secret messages on the Wishing Trees or enjoy a relaxing game on the well-maintained tennis courts. There are numerous picnic areas for leisurely afternoons enjoying local delicacies. Admire the nearby Manor Gardens, a real hidden gem just a stone's throw away that boasts beautiful floral displays and historic architecture. End your vacation with a round on the traditional putting green. Adventure and tranquility await you in equal measure.

Visit Butts Brow for stunning 360-degree panoramic views of the South Downs, Eastbourne and the English Channel. It is ideal for walkers and nature lovers as there is plenty of native wildlife and wildflowers. Don't forget your picnic basket, as this is Eastbourne's best kept secret for lunch in picturesque surroundings. If you are interested in history, you can combine your excursion with a visit to the nearby mystical Willingdon Hill, famous for its Bronze Age burial mounds.

Visit Treasure Island Adventure Park - a fun adventure for kids of all ages! Be thrilled as you walk the plank in Pirate's Adventureland, experience a mystical fantasy in Adventure Golf, and have indoor fun in Rocky's Adventure Castle. When in Eastbourne, don't miss the breathtaking views from Cliff Beach, which is just a short walk away. Remember, easterly winds make for the calmest pirate ship rides on the park's deck!