Eastbourne factfile

How to get to Eastbourne
Nestling on the south coast of East Sussex between Brighton and Hastings, Eastbourne is a large and thriving seaside town about 100 km (62 mi) south of London. It's served by good transport links to the capital and other parts of the South East.

Shopping in Eastbourne
The town centre's winding medieval streets are home to a range of small independent shops, and there are also bustling shopping centres for those looking for high street names and designer labels. The Sovereign Harbour Marina offers a new shopping environment with waterside eateries and retail outlets.

Eating and drinking in Eastbourne
Every October, Eastbourne hosts the Feastbourne Food and Drink Festival, while the annual Beer Festival, also in October, features 120 real cask ales. The town itself has a range of restaurants, from fine dining to family budget options and all variations in between. Eastbourne boasts several highly-rated Victorian-era restaurants and hotels—well worth exploring for a taste of period glamour.

Famous people from Eastbourne
Famous people who have made their homes in Eastbourne include artist Mabel Lucie Attwell, writer Cyril Connolly, pianist Russ Conway and comedian Tommy Cooper. Both Alice in Wonderland creator Lewis Carroll and Charles Dickens holidayed here.

Natural beauty spots around Eastbourne
The area around Eastbourne is a walker's paradise, boasting three national long-distance walks.

The South Downs Way covers 161 km (100 mi) of ancient drovers' routes over stunning countryside.

The Weald Way takes you past the Long Man of Wilmington hill carving, Ashdown forest and the North Downs.

And the historic Pevensey to Rye route takes in sites linked to the Battle of Hastings.

Sports and leisure in Eastbourne
Devonshire Park in Eastbourne hosts the annual International Women's Open tennis tournament in June. Many of the world's top players compete here in preparation for Wimbledon. Eastbourne is also home to three football clubs and hosts regular stock car races.