7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Eastbourne

Eastbourne, a charming coastal town in the South of England, is not only a delightful place to live for digital nomads but also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. With its unique blend of seaside tranquility and easy access to a variety of destinations, Eastbourne offers the perfect balance for work and leisure. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, there's something for everyone within a short journey. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that range from the well-trodden paths to the roads less traveled.

Brighton

Brighton is a vibrant coastal city known for its eclectic shopping areas, cultural events, and lively beachfront. A short trip from Eastbourne, it offers a plethora of activities, from exploring the iconic Brighton Pier and the Royal Pavilion to discovering the bohemian North Laine and The Lanes. The city is also famous for its nightlife and food scene, with an array of restaurants and bars to suit all tastes.

How to Get There: The quickest way to get to Brighton from Eastbourne is by train, with regular services taking around 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive along the scenic coastal route in about an hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to experience the Brighton i360, a 162-meter observation tower offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. It's a unique way to see Brighton from above.

Where to Stay: The Grand Brighton is an iconic seafront hotel that offers luxury accommodations and a renowned afternoon tea. For a more boutique experience, try Artist Residence, known for its quirky decor and on-site cocktail bar.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, check out The Salt Room, which offers stunning sea views and specializes in seafood and grilled dishes. For a more casual bite, visit the Brighton Burger Company, famed for its creative and delicious burgers.

Lewes

The historic town of Lewes is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the South Downs. Known for its medieval streets, antique shops, and the impressive Lewes Castle, it offers a quieter but equally enriching experience compared to the bustling Brighton. The town also hosts a number of festivals throughout the year, including the famous Lewes Bonfire Night.

How to Get There: Lewes is easily accessible from Eastbourne by train, with journeys taking approximately 30 minutes. By car, the trip takes around 40 minutes via the A27.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit Harvey's Brewery, the oldest independent brewery in Sussex, for a tour and a taste of traditional cask ales.

Where to Stay: The Shelleys Hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and historical charm, with a beautiful garden to relax in. Alternatively, the White Hart Hotel provides a more central location with easy access to the town's attractions.

Where to Eat: For a cozy pub atmosphere and hearty British fare, head to The Snowdrop Inn, which also features an excellent selection of local ales and ciders.

Rye

The quaint town of Rye is like stepping back in time with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and tranquil atmosphere. It's a perfect spot for those looking to escape the digital world for a weekend. Explore the Rye Castle Museum, browse through the town's antique shops, or take a walk in the nearby Rye Harbour Nature Reserve.

How to Get There: Rye can be reached by train from Eastbourne with one change, usually at Hastings, and the journey takes around an hour. By car, it's a direct route via the A259, taking about 50 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the Mermaid Street, famed for its picturesque cobbles and historic Mermaid Inn, which dates back to the 12th century and is said to be haunted.

Where to Stay: The Mermaid Inn itself is not only a great place to eat but also offers unique rooms with period features. For a more modern stay, try the Rye Lodge Hotel, which has a spa and indoor pool.

Where to Eat: The Fig serves up Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy setting, while Knoops is renowned for its exceptional hot chocolate, perfect for a chilly day.

Alfriston

Alfriston is a picturesque village that remains one of the South Downs' best-kept secrets. With its thatched cottages, traditional English gardens, and the historic Clergy House, Alfriston feels like a step into a pastoral painting. It's an ideal spot for countryside walks and a peaceful retreat from the digital hustle.

How to Get There: The most convenient way to reach Alfriston is by car, as it's just a 30-minute drive from Eastbourne via the A27. Public transport options are limited, but local bus services do run from nearby towns.

Travel Tip: Check out the Alfriston Clergy House, a 14th-century timber-framed Wealden hall-house and the first property acquired by the National Trust.

Where to Stay: The Star Inn, a 13th-century inn, offers cozy accommodations and a traditional pub atmosphere. For a more luxurious stay, Deans Place Hotel boasts stunning views of the South Downs.

Where to Eat: The George Inn is a historic pub offering classic British dishes and local ales, while the Singing Kettle Tea House is perfect for a traditional cream tea experience.

Seven Sisters Country Park

For those who love the great outdoors, Seven Sisters Country Park is a stunning coastal area featuring the famous white chalk cliffs. It's a fantastic location for hiking, bird watching, or simply enjoying the panoramic views of the English Channel. The park also offers canoeing and paddleboarding on the Cuckmere River.

How to Get There: The park is a short drive from Eastbourne, taking around 20 minutes via the A259. Alternatively, there are direct bus services from Eastbourne that will get you there in about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: For a breathtaking view, take the walk up to Beachy Head, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain, offering dramatic vistas of the coast.

Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within the park itself, nearby East Dean offers charming B&Bs like The Tiger Inn, which is situated right on the village green.

Where to Eat: The Saltmarsh Farmhouse, located within the park, offers a delightful café with locally sourced ingredients and homemade cakes.

Winchelsea

Winchelsea stands as a quiet counterpart to the more bustling Rye, offering a tranquil retreat with a rich history. This small medieval town is home to a network of underground cellars, the remains of a 13th-century abbey, and picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. It's a perfect spot for history buffs and those seeking solace.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Winchelsea is by car, which takes about 40 minutes from Eastbourne via the A259. Public transport options include a train to Rye followed by a short bus ride.

Travel Tip: Take a guided tour of the medieval cellars, which are only accessible through pre-booked tours and offer a unique glimpse into the town's past.

Where to Stay: The New Inn offers comfortable rooms and a traditional pub setting, while the nearby Strand House provides a more boutique bed and breakfast experience.

Where to Eat: The Winchelsea Farm Kitchen is a delightful deli and café, perfect for a light lunch or picking up some local produce. For a more substantial meal, The Ship Inn serves up classic pub fare with a modern twist.

Herstmonceux Castle

Herstmonceux Castle is a 15th-century moated castle set in 300 acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands. It's a place where history and science intersect, as the castle grounds also house the Observatory Science Centre, featuring historic telescopes and interactive exhibits. The castle's gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and the science center offers a unique educational experience.

How to Get There: The castle is a short drive from Eastbourne, approximately 30 minutes via the A27 and Wartling Road. Public transport is limited, but local bus services do operate from Eastbourne to the nearby village of Wartling.

Travel Tip: Check the castle's event calendar for medieval festivals, outdoor theatre performances, and astronomy evenings that are often held on the grounds.

Where to Stay: The nearby Boreham House offers luxury bed and breakfast accommodations in a historic country house setting. For a more unique stay, consider the eco-lodges at The Observatory Science Centre.

Where to Eat: The Castle's Chestnuts Tearoom provides a selection of homemade cakes and light lunches, while the nearby Lamb Inn at Wartling offers traditional pub meals in a cozy setting.