Eastbourne has always been a place that evokes fond memories of seaside holidays, cheerful promenades, and that unmistakable scent of salt in the air. Over the years, I’ve visited Eastbourne countless times, and the experiences I’ve had with my own children have taught me that this town isn’t just for couples or retirees—it’s a perfect family destination. From sandy beaches where little feet can dig and splash to educational attractions that spark curiosity, Eastbourne offers a balance of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Planning a family trip, however, requires careful thought: timing, activity choices, and knowing where to book tickets or accommodations in advance can make the difference between a stressful day and a magical one. Here, I want to share some of my favorite family-friendly activities in Eastbourne, along with detailed advice and personal insights.
1. Eastbourne Pier – Classic Seaside Fun
Location: Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3EN
Entry Cost: Free to enter the pier; rides and arcade games typically cost £2–£5 each
Booking Platform: On-site tickets for rides; for larger family groups, consider Attraction Tickets Direct for packages
Eastbourne Pier is undoubtedly the beating heart of the town’s seaside charm, a place where history, fun, and breathtaking views converge. I still vividly remember the first time I brought my children here. As we walked along the seafront toward the pier, their little hands clutched mine tightly, eyes wide with excitement. The Victorian structure, with its intricate wooden boards and iron railings, seemed to stretch endlessly into the sea, inviting us to explore. The salty tang of the ocean blended with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly cooked doughnuts and hot chips from the kiosks nearby, creating an unmistakable summer smell that instantly made me feel nostalgic. Overhead, seagulls swooped and cried, providing a soundtrack that somehow perfectly captured the timeless charm of a British seaside holiday.
For children, the pier offers an almost magical combination of sights, sounds, and tastes. The traditional arcade games and skill-based amusements are always a hit—they love the flashing lights, cheerful noises, and the challenge of winning a prize. Small fairground rides, like the spinning teacups or mini carousel, cater perfectly to young children, offering just enough thrill without being intimidating. And then there are the ice cream kiosks and fish-and-chip stands, which are almost irresistible after a morning of running around. My kids’ faces would light up with joy every time they got a cone, while I’d take a moment to breathe in the sea air and watch them enjoy every little detail.
What makes Eastbourne Pier particularly special is that, despite its popularity, it has quiet corners where one can find a sense of calm. On one visit, I sat on a bench near the far end, sipping a cup of tea while my children darted to and from the arcade, their laughter mingling with the gentle slap of waves beneath the pier. The sight of the sun glinting off the water as it stretched toward the horizon, combined with the soothing creak of the wooden boards underfoot, created a memory I’ll always treasure.
Practical Tip: For a smoother experience, I recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Rides and arcade machines can get busy in peak summer hours, but the pier’s charm is just as enjoyable when you take your time exploring the quieter spaces. Booking larger groups through Attraction Tickets Direct can also save you money and make planning easier, especially if you want to include a variety of rides and games.
2. Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum – History with a Twist
Location: Royal Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3AD
Entry Cost: Adults £7.50, Children (5–16) £4.50, Under 5 free
Booking Platform: Eastbourne Museums
At first glance, a fortress might not scream “fun for kids,” but the Redoubt Fortress is different. The massive circular structure houses interactive exhibits, including model cannons, historical uniforms, and simulated firing displays. On our first visit, my children were fascinated by the cannons’ mechanisms and loved trying on replica helmets.
Highlights:
- Interactive artillery displays for hands-on learning
- Temporary exhibitions focused on local history
- Outdoor areas perfect for running and exploring
Personal Note: One rainy afternoon, the museum became our sanctuary. We learned about Victorian military history, then went outside to climb the ramparts and look at the town from above—a combination of education and adventure that kept my children engaged for hours.
3. Shinewater Park – Open-Air Play
Location: Shinewater Lane, Eastbourne BN23 6JW
Entry Cost: Free
Booking Platform: No prior booking required
Sometimes, the best days are spent outdoors, letting children roam freely. Shinewater Park has everything a family could hope for: wide grassy areas, playgrounds, a boating lake, and plenty of paths for scooters or bikes.
Highlights for kids:
- Multi-level playground with climbing frames and slides
- Feeding ducks and swans by the lake
- Space for picnics or casual ball games
Practical Tip: Bring a picnic and water bottles. On a sunny day, we often stay for hours, alternating between feeding the ducks, playing on the swings, and just relaxing on the grass while the children run freely. Sunscreen and hats are essential here—there is very little shade in some sections.
4. Towner Art Gallery – Creativity for All Ages
Location: College Road, Eastbourne BN21 4JJ
Entry Cost: Free general admission; some temporary exhibitions may charge £5–£10
Booking Platform: Towner Art Gallery
While art galleries are often considered adult spaces, Towner is surprisingly family-friendly. They offer workshops and hands-on activity corners for children, where my kids can paint, sculpt, or simply engage with color and textures. On one trip, they were inspired by a contemporary exhibit of large abstract murals and spent an hour creating their own mini-murals with provided materials.
Practical Tip: Check the gallery’s website for family-focused workshops during your visit. Booking in advance can guarantee spots, especially for weekend programs.
Personal Reflection: Watching my children interact with art, asking questions about colors, shapes, and emotions, reminded me that learning isn’t confined to classrooms—it’s about experience, curiosity, and shared discovery.
5. Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park – Tiny Trains, Big Fun
Location: Pevensey Bay Road, Eastbourne BN24 6PU
Entry Cost: Adults £5, Children £3, Family ticket £12
Booking Platform: On-site or via Viator for guided packages
For train-loving children (and adults who secretly enjoy them), the Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park is unforgettable. Watching my children’s faces light up as a small steam train chugged along its miniature track, surrounded by landscaped gardens and ponds, was priceless.
Highlights:
- Miniature steam and electric trains
- Outdoor play areas, including sandpits and climbing frames
- Seasonal events like “Thomas the Tank Engine” weekends
Travel Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during school holidays. Pack snacks and water, as small cafés inside the park can be busy.
Personal Note: On a cloudy afternoon, the gentle hiss of the miniature steam engine became a comforting background as we strolled with the kids, pointing out tiny bridges and tunnels. It’s a magical combination of nostalgia and childlike wonder.
6. Eastbourne Bandstand – Music and Magic
Location: Grand Parade, Eastbourne BN21 3EN
Entry Cost: Free for general admission; some concerts may charge £5–£15
Booking Platform: Check Eastbourne Borough Council for events
One summer evening, we stumbled upon a children’s concert at the Bandstand. The cheerful music, clapping, and occasional audience participation kept my kids engaged. The surrounding lawns also provided ample space to run, play, and picnic while enjoying live entertainment.
Tip: Bring a blanket or picnic rug. Concerts in the evening are especially pleasant when the sun sets over the promenade. Booking in advance isn’t usually required for free events, but paid performances can sell out, so check online.
7. Seaside Activities – Beachcombing and Sandcastles
Location: Eastbourne Seafront, Beachy Head to Sovereign Harbour
Entry Cost: Free; equipment rentals extra
Booking Platform: Equipment can be rented on-site; for guided tours, Viator offers family beach experiences
Of course, no Eastbourne family trip is complete without seaside fun. On my first visit with my children, we spent hours building sandcastles, collecting shells, and paddling in shallow waters. The beaches are clean, well-maintained, and offer a mix of pebbles and sand, perfect for creative play.
Practical Tip: Bring buckets, spades, and a windbreaker. The sea can be chilly, and strong winds can blow sand into little eyes. Beach huts are available to rent for the day if you want a base for changing clothes or storing belongings.
Booking Tips for Families
To maximize convenience, safety, and savings:
- Accommodation: Use Booking.com or Expedia to filter family-friendly hotels, B\&Bs, or self-catering apartments with play areas or kitchen facilities.
- Train Tickets: Trainline is ideal for booking discounted family fares, especially if using Railcards or off-peak options.
- Restaurants: Family-friendly dining can be booked in advance via OpenTable, some offering kids-eat-free deals.
- Attraction Tickets: For places like the Miniature Steam Railway or seasonal workshops at Towner Art Gallery, Viator or Attraction Tickets Direct often offer skip-the-line tickets and bundled family packages.
Personal Reflection
Over multiple trips, I’ve realized that Eastbourne isn’t just a town to visit—it’s a place to experience, laugh, and make memories as a family. Every corner holds surprises: a hidden playground, a seaside café with the best ice cream, or a quiet path along the cliffs where children can safely explore nature. Traveling with kids can be challenging, but Eastbourne provides a perfect mix of excitement, learning, and relaxation, allowing parents to join in the fun rather than constantly chase after their little ones.
