I moved to Eastbourne last January, having been born and raised in West Sussex – here are 13 things I’ve learned since moving to the Sunshine Coast.
The day I moved here was only the second I’d ever spent in Eastbourne – the first being when I viewed the house I’d later move into. So, it’s safe to say, my knowledge about the area was pretty limited.
Becoming a journalist for the Herald helped me progress from a tourist to an Eastbournian very quickly, so I’ve learnt a lot in the one year and three months I’ve lived in the town.
Like with most places, residents native to Eastbourne enjoy complaining about the town – this is aptly demonstrated by the Facebook group ‘Eastmonians’!
However, I do think Eastbourne has many redeeming qualities! Many of which are listed below, in addition to the few negative things I’ve noticed.
Here are 13 things I discovered during my first year as a resident of Eastbourne.
Like with most places, residents native to Eastbourne enjoy complaining about the town – this is aptly demonstrated by the Facebook group ‘Eastmonians’!
5. There are lots of potholes - and people really hate them
Potholes definitely aren't only an issue in Eastbourne but, I will admit, when I return home to West Sussex, I don't notice as many. One resident got in touch with this newspaper recently after one of her tyres was 'completely destroyed by a pothole'. She returned with a tape measure and found that some were as wide as 70cm and as deep as 24cm! A road just outside of Eastbourne, in Jevington, was also found to be 'one of the worst for potholes in the country', according to a study. Pictured is a pothole in Silverdale Road that has had barriers placed around it. Photo: Staff
6. It's home to some of the best pubs in Sussex
Okay, I'm definitely not the most qualified to make that claim, but I do think Eastbourne is home to some brilliant pubs, and there's one to suit your every need. If you're in need of a cosy atmosphere, head to the Ship Inn or the Lamb Inn; if you're more about the live music scene, visit The Eagle or the Crown and Anchor, and if you're looking for a great pub lunch, then The Dolphin or the Pilot Inn are great. I also have to mention the Dew Drop because of the great atmosphere, friendly staff and amazing burgers, which can all be made vegan! Pictured is the Eight Bells, which is a little further out of Eastbourne (in Jevington), but is award-winning and worth the trip! Photo: JON RIGBY / 07850 900673
7. There are lots of independent businesses - and we must support them all
We're lucky to have lots of independent shops, cafes and restaurants in the area, particularly in Little Chelsea and the Enterprise Centre. These places bring an eclectic charm to Eastbourne and offers unique items for purchase. One example is Camilla's Bookshop in Grove Road which is stacked high with secondhand books and surely attracts a huge number of tourists. It's also home to a parrot called Archie, which is just another reason to visit. Photo: JON RIGBY / 07850 900673
8. It has a rich and interesting history
I've learned a lot about the history of the town since moving here. Eastbourne, particularly near the seafront, consists of many beautiful buildings dating back to the Victorian era - including, of course, the Pier. In the First World War, Eastbourne was home to Summerdown Camp, the largest convalescent facility at the time, to treat soldiers who were injured during trench warfare or seriously ill. Then, in the Second World War, it was considered to be the most bombed coastal town in the South-East, having sustained 112 attacks! Prior to this, in 1939, Eastbourne was considered a ‘safe zone’ and even welcomed thousands of evacuees from London. Photo: Staff