Introducing Eastbourne

This classic, old-fashioned seaside resort has long brought to mind images of octogenarians dozing in deck chairs. While many of Eastbourne's seafront hotels still have that retirement-home feel, in recent years an influx of students and one of the largest new Polish communities in the southeast have given the town a sprightlier feel.

The creation of the new South Downs National Park to the west also means Eastbourne's pebbly beaches, scrupulously snipped seaside gardens and picturesque arcade-free promenade are likely to see increasing numbers of walkers and cyclists, finishing or embarking on a trip along the South Downs Way.