Highlights
Discover the beauty and history of Eastbourne on this guided tour, starting from Eastbourne Station. Explore the charming town center, visit the iconic Bandstand, stroll along Eastbourne Pier, and uncover the history of the Wish Tower and Lifeboat Museum. Marvel at the elegance of the Grand Hotel, relax in the serene Italian Gardens, and end the journey with breathtaking views at the Foot of Beachy Head. A perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery!
About This Deal
Departure Point
- Please meet us at Eastbourne Railway Station, outside the station near the main entrance, directly under the station clock tower.
Return Details
- Please meet us at Eastbourne Railway Station, outside the station near the main entrance, directly under the station clock tower.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Eastbourne
Eastbourne
Eastbourne Station, the town’s main railway hub, is the perfect starting point for this journey. Built in the 19th century, it reflects the town’s rapid development as a Victorian seaside resort. The station itself is a piece of history, once serving as the gateway for Londoners escaping to the coast. Here, you’ll receive a brief introduction to Eastbourne’s history and an overview of what lies ahead on the tour. The area around the station is bustling, with cafés and shops, making it a great place to grab a coffee before setting off.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Eastbourne
Eastbourne
Cornfield Road is the heart of Eastbourne’s shopping and business district, offering a glimpse into the town’s vibrant daily life. This street showcases elegant Victorian and Edwardian architecture, a reminder of Eastbourne’s golden age as a fashionable seaside retreat. As you walk through, you’ll see a mix of historic buildings and modern retail stores, blending past and present. The road leads towards the seafront, providing a seamless transition from urban charm to coastal beauty.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Eastbourne Bandstand
Grand Parade, Eastbourne
The Eastbourne Bandstand, built in 1935, is one of the most distinctive bandstands in the UK, known for its striking blue dome and Art Deco design. It has hosted countless musical performances, from military bands to rock concerts, making it a lively cultural hub. Standing here, you’ll get fantastic views of the coastline while imagining the grand performances that have taken place over the decades. During the summer, the bandstand comes alive with tribute concerts and fireworks displays, making it one of Eastbourne’s most cherished landmarks. It holds the record for the busiest bandstand in the UK, with over 140 concerts per year.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Eastbourne Pier
Grand Parade, , Eastbourne
Stepping onto Eastbourne Pier is like walking back in time to the Victorian era. Opened in 1870, this grand structure was built to attract wealthy visitors and remains a symbol of Eastbourne’s seaside charm. The pier has survived storms, fires, and wartime threats, yet it still stands as one of the town’s most iconic attractions. Here, you can admire panoramic sea views, enjoy traditional fish and chips, or explore the vintage-style amusements. The pier was originally designed to have a railway running down its length, but this plan was never completed. Today, it remains a popular spot for photography and relaxation, offering a true taste of classic British seaside life.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: The Wish Tower
Wish Tower, Eastbourne
The Wish Tower is one of the 74 Martello Towers built along the English coastline during the early 19th century to defend against a potential Napoleonic invasion. This historic fortification, with its thick stone walls and circular design, was constructed to withstand cannon fire and serve as a lookout point. Standing here, you’ll get a sense of Eastbourne’s military past while taking in the stunning sea views. The name “Wish Tower” is believed to have come from a local legend about a sailor who made a wish upon seeing the tower. Today, the site is surrounded by gardens and walking paths, making it a peaceful yet historically rich stop on the tour.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Eastbourne Lifeboat Museum
King Edwards Parade, Eastbourne
Eastbourne’s Lifeboat Museum is dedicated to the town’s long-standing commitment to maritime rescue. The museum is housed in a former boathouse built in 1898 and tells the stories of courageous lifeboat crews who have saved countless lives at sea. Inside, you’ll find historic photographs, rescue equipment, and personal accounts of daring missions. The town’s lifeboat service dates back to 1822, making it one of the oldest in the UK. This stop offers a fascinating look at the bravery and dedication of those who risk their lives to help others. It’s a deeply moving experience that highlights Eastbourne’s connection to the sea.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: The Grand Hotel Spa
Known as the “White Palace,” the Grand Hotel is a masterpiece of Victorian luxury. Opened in 1875, it was designed to accommodate the wealthiest visitors, including royalty and celebrities. Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin both stayed here, adding to its legendary status. The hotel’s grand white façade and elegant interiors reflect a bygone era of opulence. Even if you’re not staying here, you can still admire its architecture and imagine the lavish events that once took place inside. The Grand Hotel is also the only five-star beachfront hotel in England, making it one of Eastbourne’s most prestigious landmarks.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Italian Gardens
Eastbourne, England BN20 7FF
Hidden within the cliffs, the Italian Gardens offer a tranquil escape from the bustling seafront. Originally designed in the early 1900s, these beautifully landscaped gardens were inspired by Italian Renaissance designs. The sheltered location creates a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quiet moment to enjoy nature. The gardens overlook the sea, providing a stunning contrast between the manicured greenery and the rugged coastline. In the past, these gardens were used for open-air theater performances, adding to their cultural significance. Today, they remain one of Eastbourne’s most picturesque spots, ideal for photography and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Duration: Not Available
Stop At: Foot of Beachy Head
Eastbourne, England BN20
The tour concludes at the Foot of Beachy Head, where you’ll witness one of the most breathtaking views in the UK. Beachy Head is the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, rising 531 feet above sea level. The cliffs have long been a landmark for sailors and have appeared in numerous films and TV shows. The striking white cliffs contrast beautifully with the deep blue sea, creating a dramatic and unforgettable landscape. While here, you can take in the stunning scenery, learn about the area’s geological history, and, if you wish, continue walking up to the top of the cliffs for an even more panoramic view. The lighthouse at Beachy Head was built in 1902 and remains an essential part of maritime navigation. This stop offers the perfect ending to a tour that showcases Eastbourne’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Duration: 10 minutes
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Small group tour
- Certified tour guide
Exclusions
- Food and Drinks
- Anything else not mentioned in the inclusions
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Expatrotours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Fine Print
14-day cancellation rights do not apply; no refunds or exchanges permitted. Voucher valid only for date and time listed; may not be exchanged or redeemed for other dates. Purchaser name and phone number must be provided at checkout; this information will be shared with Viator and the tour operator for purposes of order fulfillment. Groupon promo codes may not be used for this offer. Groupon voucher Terms of Sale do not apply. See the tour operator's terms and conditions for this offer here.
Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts.