Seaside palace: The Grand, Eastbourne

Zara Baker finds life in Eastbourne is Grand!

Having grown up in Sussex, there has never been a reason for a stay over at a hotel that’s already on my doorstep. Tourist attractions are easily overlooked. However, I actively try not to take the sea and downland views for granted, knowing I would miss the seascape if I were further inland. It was a sunny September day when I had the chance to experience my home town as a tourist, albeit for just an afternoon. Seeing the scenic South Coast from a new perspective – namely the gorgeous terrace over the entrance of The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne – and experiencing the sights and sounds with journalists from across the country, I was able to find a new appreciation for what was right in front of me.

The setting is picture perfect, there’s no denying that. Rowan Joffe, director of the Brighton Rock remake, chose Eastbourne as the setting of the 2010 film, as it has the 1950s charm of a seaside town; clean, attractive and calm. It also has a plethora of seafront hotels, which attracts visitors all year round, none so as impressive as Elite Hotel, The Grand.

Eastbourne’s Grand Hotel is the only five-star seaside hotel in the UK, a fact I find quite incredible when you think of all the gorgeous hotels lining the coast across the country. But Eastbourne can put its hand up with pride for this accolade, and deservedly so.

Situated just along from Eastbourne Pier, The Grand is set slightly back from the road, with an impressive drive and attractive gardens. Its location means you can enjoy the sea views from the terrace, without disruption from traffic on the main road. In fact, the road is cleverly hidden from most angles, meaning you see just the grounds and then the tranquil beach beyond.

Afternoon tea at The Grand, Eastbourne, is no small affair. There’s a lovely selection of teas offered, with mouth-watering treats to enjoy alongside them. For non-fish eaters or vegetarians, replacement sandwiches are easily made. The selection of fresh scones seem never-ending, and while this is more than enough, there is also a selection of cream cakes including a lovely mini black forest gateaux that’s incredible. On a sunny day on the terrace, we had competition from the wasps for our sweet treats, but this didn’t put a damper on the day in the least. With its five-star rating comes five-star service; all of the staff were attentive and impeccable, without ever ‘hovering’ around – unlike some of the wasps!

A quick look at the afternoon tea menu on their website sees the offering of a Junior version: think peanut butter and jelly, cheese and marmite sandwiches, fruit jelly and chocolate eclairs! There’s also a special Festive Afternoon Tea in December I cannot wait to try. A stay overnight may be out the question as I live so near, but that doesn’t stop me enjoying the facilities and events on offer, which are as much for local guests as they are for visitors from abroad. The gym and spa can be used by day visitors, and a dinner or afternoon tea is a great birthday treat (I hope my husband takes the hint!).

Benita Adesuyan (The Sunday Express), Damien Gabet (Square Meal), Emily Knight (Flavour magazine), Maggie McNulty (Cosmopolitan), Zara Baker (altest 7) and Zoe Monk (Hotel Business).

One thing that stands out as you walk around The Grand, Eastbourne, is its relaxed, family feel. Yes, it’s five-star luxury, and yes, it is in Eastbourne with its connotations of being a retirement town and coach trip central, but like the town itself, there is something unpretentious and refreshing about The Grand. There are children around – dogs too. There is the choice of eating in the informal dining room for dinner, a room that’s still full of character and charm, or more formally. The heated outdoor pool looks great fun for the summer months (with special BBQ nights held too). Young families, couples and young professionals mix with the elderly. It’s a less hectic pace than Brighton, which might be where the ‘retirement’ town link comes in, but that’s what I love best about it. Venues like The Grand and new housing developments are attracting all generations. Did I mention that parking is reasonable and easy too?! Just another small reason to add to my huge amount of love for this seaside town.

There’s more to The Grand, Eastbourne than afternoon teas, but for now, it’s a good place to start…

For bookings, rates, facilities, special events, and more, visit www.grandeastbourne.com/