Alex Fisher, editor-in-chief
What’s the Buzz at The Grand Hotel?
The Grand Hotel in Eastbourne is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. Built in 1875, it quickly became an icon of seaside luxury. Known as ‘The White Palace’, it offered wealthy Victorians the chance to take in the sea air for months at a time. This historically significant building, designed during the height of the Victorian love for coastal holidays, sits just opposite the lovely seaside promenade on Eastbourne Beach, where you can pick up the tourist train, take a trip down to the pier and imagine what life was like for those on holiday on the British coast in times past.
French composer Claude Debussy stayed in 1905 and completed his symphony La Mer while overlooking the Channel. His room, now named the Debussy Suite, remains popular with guests today. Explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton visited in 1914, reportedly sketching part of the plan for his Antarctic expedition on a hotel napkin. Charlie Chaplin was a regular guest in the 1960s and royalty has stayed too.
Between 1924 and 1939, the BBC broadcast the Grand Hotel radio programme live from the stunning Grand Hall. To celebrate that legacy and the 150-year anniversary, the hotel will host 150 Years of Music, Monarchs & The Grand Hotel – a festival from 21–24 November. Over the long weekend, guests can enjoy music inspired by artists including Dame Nellie Melba, Paul Robeson and Enrico Caruso, with narration by actors Kevin Whately and Madelaine Newton, while savouring a three-course dinner each evening. Also planned is a Debussy By Candlelight Christmas Concert on 7 December – a festive tribute to the composer’s stay.
What Are the Rooms Like at The Grand Hotel?
The hotel has an incredible 152 rooms and suites, blending classic Victorian styling with modern features. Accommodation ranges from standard doubles to larger suites with sea views, balconies or private terraces.
Best Sea View?
For panoramic vistas, request a Superior Classic Seaview Room or a sea-facing Suite. The Debussy Suite has a lounge and terrace looking towards the nearby sea – ideal for sunset drinks.
How About the Food at The Grand Hotel?
The main restaurant, The Mirabelle, serves British and European dishes made using seasonal ingredients. Dining here is often included in half-board or package deals. Expect dishes based around local produce such as pan-roasted halibut, lamb shoulder or Sussex venison. A three-course dinner is usually around £60 per person.
Afternoon tea is also a tradition at The Grand and cream teas and full afternoon tea services are offered daily. The 150th-themed afternoon tea adds historical flair, with nods to past guests and moments from the hotel’s story.
Any Luxurious Touches?
Outside, the heated outdoor pool is a lovely, secluded spot for a relaxed dip in the fresh seaside air. There is also an indoor spa, with a small pool and a range of therapies year-round.
What Will It Cost at The Grand Hotel?
Rooms start at £160 per night for a Classic Room. Seaview Rooms and Suites are more. Anniversary packages such as the music weekend in November, begin at £995 for two people for two nights, or £1,490 for three nights. Non-residential event tickets start from £180 and festive concert
tickets start from £45.
How Do I Book?
To book a stay or reserve a place at one of the 150th anniversary events, call 01323 412345 or visit grandeastbourne.com.
Discover more hotels by the coast, incredible places to stay with striking sea views or for more inspiration of places to stay, pick up the latest copy of coast magazine.
