In 1907, “I do like to be beside the Seaside” was written. Five years later, the Lansdowne came into ownership of the family who still own it today. We’ve got over 100 years of experience of welcoming families to the coast – so you can trust us with your holiday plans this summer.

With hazy panoramic sea views that stretch all the way to France, chalky picnic-perfect cliffs glinting white in the sunlight and rolling grassy downs perfect for the kids to run around on, it’s fair to say the Sussex coast has somewhat of an allure. So let us take you on a tour of the area with our guide to a great British Summertime in Eastbourne.

A summer in Eastbourne wouldn’t be complete without “Airbourne”, the Eastbourne Airshow 2024. This classic day out will wow you and the kids alike with breathtaking displays from the Red Arrows, RAF Typhoon and even a Spitfire! Whether you’re a family of plane enthusiasts or just enjoy an exciting day out, you’ll all enjoy their daring manoeuvers as they soar over the Seven Sisters.

We’ve got it on good authority that the best (and cheapest!) place to enjoy the display is on the downs towards Beachy Head, the highest chalk cliff in the country. This great vantage point is a mere 5 minute drive from The Lansdowne Hotel, or an hour if you’re opting to walk. Make a day of it and bring a picnic to enjoy whilst the planes dazzle overhead.

The Lansdowne is always a great choice for food at this time of year, whether it’s Afternoon Tea in one of our lounges or Lunch in the 1912 Restaurant or Terrace.

A 7 minute walk from The Lansdowne Hotel you’ll find the Eastbourne Bandstand. This 1930s feature is not only an architectural memory of seaside holidays past, but also a piece of living history that still hosts a variety of concerts. Check what’s on during your visit to enjoy live music on a summer evening as you’ve never experienced it before.

And if you’re looking for some evening distraction for the kids: every Tuesday in the Summer holidays the Bandstand runs a Kids disco party night. With music from the charts and family favourites, this is a great way to spend an evening for the entire family.

Visit the bandstands website for a full list of summer events.

The Great Outdoors from a dog friendly hotel in Eastbourne

When you stay at The Lansdowne Hotel, you’ll be spoilt for choice of green spaces and gardens- and that’s before even considering the renowned Seven Sisters country park!

Try Lottbridge Golf Club (12 minute drive) for its golf course, large lake and woodlands. Head to Shinewater Park (12 minute drive) for sports facilities and a family day out in rainy weather. If the weather’s sunny, why not take the kids to try some water sports at Princes Park (5 minute drive) or a walk through a historic house at Folkington Manor (22 minute drive) for older teenagers interested in history.

Plus, when you stay at a dog friendly hotel in Eastbourne like ours, there’s no need to leave the pooch at home. Bring the whole family to explore the Sussex countryside with you during your stay at The Lansdowne.

P.S. we’re dog friendly and if you book our Lansdowne Club package, Fido stays for free too.

If you’re travelling with younger children (or even just those who are young at heart!) The Lansdowne is well connected to a colourful assortment of days out.

Meet exotic animals at the award-winning Drusillas Zoo (20 minute drive), visit the landing place of William the Conqueror’s army in 1066 Pevensey Castle (20 minute drive) or keep it simple with ice cream and a stroll down Eastbourne Pier (15 minute walk).

Right now, you can also book one of our new Family Packages from just £245. You’ll enjoy a one night dinner, bed & breakfast stay, where kids under 12 eat for free and adults get a £30 per person allocation towards dinner (food only) to spend in our 1912 Seafood & Steak Restaurant. Then you’ll get to choose between 2 activities, visiting Knockhatch Adventure Park or spending the afternoon at The Ninja Arena.

Find out more and our Family Packages here.

If you’re traveling with older kids interested in culture, Eastbourne is also a hotbed of the Arts.

4 minutes from The Lansdowne you’ll find the striking Towner, housing a collection of modern and local art and has seen the likes of The Turner Prize in the past year. Along the promenade, follow the Eastbourne Art Trail curated by Compass Arts, created by local neurodivergent artists. Glimpse chalk artworks carved into the hills: the mysterious Long Man of Wilmington (22 minute drive) and historic Litlington White Horse (20 minute drive). Or check out what’s showing during your stay at our roster of local theatres: the Congress Theatre (4 minute walk), Devonshire Park Theatre (4 minute walk) or Winter Garden theatre (4 minute walk).