Eastbourne & The Bluebell Railway
5 days
5 Days Away - 2024
Attracting holidaymakers since the Victorian times, Eastbourne is a bustling seaside resort that epitomises classic British holidays with its traditional seafront attractions, friendly atmosphere and picturesque vistas. During our relaxing break here we take a trip on the Bluebell Railway, one of the country’s best-loved nostalgic heritage lines, spend time in picturesque Lewes and charming Alfriston and also marvel at the spectacular Beachy Head.
PLEASE NOTE: Price is per person and based on two people sharing a twin/double room. Single room supplements and upgrades are not included.
Itinerary
What's Included?
Includes
- Return coach travel
- 4 nights at a selected hotel in Eastbourne (JG2+ or JG3 rating) with dinner & breakfast
- Entertainment some evenings (at the Cumberland Hotel only)
- Excursions to Lewes & Alfriston (via Beachy Head)
- Heritage train journey on the Bluebell Railway
Optional excursion to Rye & Hastings (£14pp)
Included Excursions
Included Excursions
Bluebell Railway & Lewes (full day)
We start the day with a trip into yesteryear by boarding the Bluebell Railway, one of the UK’s best-preserved heritage railways. From Sheffield Park station we journey through the idyllic Sussex countryside towards East Grinstead, enjoying the lovely vistas along the way.
Afterwards, we explore the bustling market town of Lewes, surrounded by chalk cliffs in the South Downs. There are plenty of welcoming cafés and historic buildings to admire, including the Norman castle which dominates the townscape.
Alfriston via Beachy Head (half day)
On our next included day out we enjoy a scenic drive along the glorious Sussex Heritage Coast, stopping to marvel at the spectacular chalk cliffs at Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters. We continue to the picturesque village of Alfriston, nestled in the valley of the River Cuckmere and full of charming old buildings, gift shops, tearooms and traditional inns.
Optional Excursion
Rye & Hastings – £14pp (full day)
We explore 1066 Country, calling first at the fortified hilltop town of Rye, a charming place of cobbled lanes, secret passages and historic architecture. We then head to the coastal town of Hastings, which boasts the remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror and a lovely preserved Old Town with half-timbered houses and narrow streets.
Eastbourne Carousel
Eastbourne
EastbourneThe popular and elegant seaside town of Eastbourne is one of England’s most appealing resorts famous for its miles of award winning, clean and sandy beaches.
Often referred to as one of the sunniest places in the UK owing to its sheltered position alongside the famous Beachy Head cliff, Eastbourne is a spectacular place to visit.
Bluebell Railway
The Bluebell Railway, one of the UK’s best-preserved heritage railways, commenced train services in August 1960. From Sheffield Park station, through the idyllic Sussex countryside towards Grinstead, the scenic journey gives us the opportunity to learn about the history and science of the industrial age, experience the thrill of getting up close to a working steam locomotive, and luxuriate in the comfort and style of a bygone era - enjoying the lovely vistas along the way.
Back to topAccommodation
Select Eastbourne Hotel Hotel
We’ll stay at one of two hotels in Eastbourne:
Cumberland Hotel, Eastbourne (JG2+ rating)
The Cumberland Hotel is located on Eastbourne’s seafront, overlooking the promenade. All en-suite rooms offer a TV and tea and coffee-making facilities. The hotel is within walking distance of the town centre and also features a lounge and restaurant with sea views.
Cavendish Hotel, Eastbourne (JG3 rating)
The Cavendish Hotel faces the coast on Eastbourne’s Grand Parade. The en-suite rooms offer TV and tea and coffee-making facilities. Other hotel facilities include a bar and restaurant which overlook the beach, a library and guest lounges.
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