CHANNEL ISLANDS
Eastbourne may bask in more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in the UK, but there is little evidence of that for us. Though several downpours send us scuttling for cover, they cannot dampen our spirits.
Because even without sun, Eastbourne is a charming reminder of the days when a visit to the seaside was described as a holiday rather than a ‘staycation’.
The pebble beach is overlooked by a quaint line of whitewashed hotels. The pleasure pier, restored after a fire in 2014, has its own fish and chip shop and a tea room– a warm spot to watch the waves on grey days such as this.
No wonder pensioners flock here in their thousands for an ice-cream scoop of nostalgia.
But Eastbourne is not just for the grey-haired. There was plenty at this family-friendly resort to keep our 15-month-old redhead Haydn entertained.
The Treasure Island Adventure Park is anchored at one end of the prom, complete with Long John Silver’s shipwreck for cabin boys and girls to explore and pirate-themed mini-golf.
Further back from the front is the Miniature Steam Railway with its collection of spectacular steam and diesel powered little locomotives and a tot’s village for youngsters to toddle round.
Sticking with miniature marvels, our favourite attraction was Drusillas Park.
A hidden treasure in the East Sussex countryside 20 minutes from Eastbourne, it makes the big claim to be Britain’s best small zoo. It may just be right.
With the exception of two huge camels, most of the animals here are equally small. This is ideal for young children who may find larger beasts more intimidating, but are fascinated by the playful miniature monkeys, the scampering meerkats, and curious racoons. It also offers a great opportunity to get close to some more unusual animals such as anteaters, armadillos, and Asian binturongs, aptly nicknamed ‘bearcats’.
Older children with more energy will find plenty to explore in the adventure playground. For really energetic families, the Sussex coastline is full of walks that are breathtakingly beautiful and strenuous, such as Beachy Head which towers high above Eastbourne.
It is clearly visible from the grounds of The Grand Hotel, surely the most stylish place to stay. This magnificent mansion at the west end of the prom was built in 1874, and it maintains a sense of old English decorum. Gentleman are asked to wear a collared shirt and jacket or tie for dinner in the exquisite Garden Restaurant. For something less formal, try the early evening family dining session. There is also a children’s playroom, with activity sessions to give parents a break, as well as indoor and outdoor swimming pools for families to enjoy.
Housekeeping even left a rubber duck in our stunning suite to keep Haydn company at bath-time. The personal touch was much appreciated.
Terminus Street, opposite the pier, offers everything from Greek to Indian food, as well as the traditional favourites, such as Harry Ramsden’s fish and chips.
Cornish ice cream is sold at many cafes and stalls on the promenade, but for a more continental flavour try Fusciardi’s for scrumptious gelato.
Another reason to take a family holiday closer to home, even if you can’t count on the weather.
Stop by the bandstand on the sea front, busiest in the UK. It hosts 100-plus live shows every summer, including one every evening in the school hols, ranging from Tom Jones and Take That tribute acts to theatre shows and kids discos.
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