Eastbourne Sightseeing

Journey Overview

New season starts Sat 1st April!

The Eastbourne Open Sightseeing Tour takes visitors on a scenic journey through some of the most beautiful and historic areas of Eastbourne. The adventure begins at the iconic Eastbourne Pier, a Victorian masterpiece that stretches out into the shimmering blue waters of the English Channel.

As the tour winds its way along the seafront, visitors will pass by the Bandstand, an elegant circular structure that has been entertaining crowds with music and dance since the 19th century. The Lifeguard Museum, situated nearby, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of Eastbourne’s beachfront.

Next up is the stunning Italian Gardens, a beautifully landscaped oasis of tranquillity that is bursting with colourful flowers, fountains, and statues.

As the tour continues, customers will catch their first glimpse of the magnificent Beachy Head, a towering chalk cliff that rises up to 162 metres above sea level. The foot of Beachy Head is a popular spot for walkers and nature lovers, who can explore the rugged coastline and take in the breathtaking views.The towering cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to the picturesque coastline, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. You’ll also pass by the Beachy Head Lighthouse, which has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters for over 150 years. It’s striking red and white top is visible from some distance and is an iconic sight.

As the bus makes its way along the coastline, the road feels open, a bit isolated and is it winds back and forth, green shrubs and pastures either side, but with stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside. The next stop on the tour is Birling Gap, a beautiful cove that’s perfect for a relaxing stroll. Here, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of the white cliffs and the water below.

The tour then heads inland, passing through the charming village of East Dean. This picturesque village is filled with historic buildings and quaint shops, making it a great place to explore.

Next, the bus arrives in Little Chelsea, a vibrant neighbourhood filled with independent boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. This is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to do some shopping.

Finally, the bus will pass through the Eastbourne Railway Station before arriving in the town centre, passing elegant, Regency and Victorian buildings. Here, you’ll find a range of attractions, including theatres, museums, and art galleries. It’s the perfect place to end the tour and spend some time exploring the town.

Throughout the tour, you’ll be able to enjoy the fresh sea air breeze, top up the tan (on a good day!) and soak in the stunning scenery. The open-top bus provides an excellent vantage point for taking in the sights, and the knowledgeable tour guide commentary will provide fascinating insights into the history and culture of the area.

A Fab Day Out!

There’s some great places to hope on and off on this magnificent tour service and we’ve showcased a few here below as the journey winds its way round Eastbourne:

The Lifeboat Museum is a small but fascinating museum dedicated to the history of lifeboats and the brave men and women who have risked their lives to save others at sea. Housed in a former boathouse dating back to the 1890s, the museum displays a collection of vintage lifeboats, including the town’s first motor-powered lifeboat from 1933, as well as a range of artifacts and photographs that tell the story of Eastbourne’s lifeboat station and its crew over the years. The museum also features interactive exhibits and informative displays on the history of life-saving and rescue operations at sea.

The Italian Gardens are a stunning public garden located in the heart of the town’s seafront. Designed by the Italian architect Cesare Carli in the 1930s, the gardens feature a beautiful ornamental pond, a series of elegant fountains, and a wide range of exotic plants and flowers. The gardens offer a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the town, and are a popular spot for visitors to relax, take in the stunning views of the English Channel, and enjoy a picnic or stroll.

Beachy Head is a dramatic chalk headland located on the outskirts of Eastbourne, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel and the surrounding countryside. At 162 metres high, it is the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the clifftops, taking in the stunning views, or explore the lighthouse, which dates back to 1902 and is open to the public on selected days. The area is also popular for hiking and birdwatching, with a number of trails and viewpoints offering fantastic opportunities to spot local wildlife.

The Lighthouse is an historic building located at the end of the Eastbourne Pier. It was constructed in 1870 and has been guiding ships through the English Channel for over 150 years. The lighthouse stands at 36 meters tall and has a distinctive white and red colour scheme. It was fully automated in 1903 and is now operated remotely. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Eastbourne’s maritime history.

Birling Gap is a scenic coastal spot with stunning views and plenty to do. Visitors can take a stroll along the beach, explore the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, or hike the nearby South Downs Way. The area is also home to an array of wildlife, including seabirds and butterflies, making it a great place for birdwatching and nature walks. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the National Trust café or learn more about the area’s history at the Birling Gap museum. Overall, Birling Gap offers a beautiful and diverse range of outdoor activities for all ages.

East Dean is a charming village that offers a range of activities for visitors. The village is surrounded by beautiful countryside, and visitors can take scenic walks along the South Downs Way or explore nearby woodlands. East Dean is also home to a number of historic buildings, including the All Saints Church and the Tiger Inn, which dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the village’s traditional pubs or attend one of the many events held throughout the year, such as the annual Village Fair.

Eastbourne Town Centre is a bustling hub of activity with plenty of things to do and see. Take a stroll down Terminus Road, the main shopping street, and visit the Beacon Shopping Centre. Enjoy a walk in the picturesque Victorian-era Eastbourne Bandstand or visit the Redoubt Fortress, a military museum and art gallery. Catch a show at the Congress Theatre or experience the thrill of horse racing at Eastbourne’s historic Racecourse. The town also has numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a range of cuisines and drinks to cater to all tastes. There’s also a great opportunity to combine this fab trip with a venture on the wonderful Eastbourne Dotto train along the seafront, which is also part of the Great Scenic Journeys collection.