A-Z of Eastbourne: Places-People-History

The East Sussex seaside resort of Eastbourne, at the end of the South Downs alongside the famous Beachy Head, is largely a creation of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. In the nineteenth century small hamlets in the area were developed by wealthy landowners, particularly William Cavendish, 7th Duke of Devonshire, as an elegant planned town and, aided by the new railway connection to London, the town grew rapidly. Visitors are still attracted to its unspoilt seafront, without shops or amusement arcades, and today it is one of the fastest growing seaside towns in Britain, with an increasingly young population. It is a burgeoning centre of industry, commerce and culture.

A-Z of Eastbourne delves into the history of this Sussex resort, revealing interesting and significant moments in the story of the town. It highlights well-known landmarks and famous residents, and digs beneath the surface to uncover some of the lesser-known facts about Eastbourne and its hidden gems. This fascinating A-Z tour of Eastbourne’s history is fully illustrated and will appeal to all those with an interest in this popular seaside town.