Things to do in East Dean and Friston

Activities, attractions and tours

East Dean and Friston
Photo by Stephen Keen
Photo by Stephen Keen
Photo by Debbie Whatt
Photo by Debbie Whatt
Photo by Snappy David
Photo by Snappy David
Photo by Marc Green
Photo by Marc Green
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Top places to visit

1. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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Brighton Beach showing a city and general coastal views

2. Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina consists of a harbor full of boats and a maze of houses overlooking the English Channel. The 127-acre (51-hectare) labyrinth is charming in its simplicity and is home to gated communities with townhouses and apartments. Spend the afternoon browsing its various leisure centers, shops and restaurants with waterfront views.
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Brighton Marina featuring a house and a marina

3. Brighton Centre

The Brighton Centre is a multipurpose arena that hosts a variety of events such as conferences, music and sports. It has an audience capacity of 4,500 and an exhibition space of 53,820 square feet (5,000 square meters). Set on the seafront, Brighton Centre has been an integral part of the city’s cultural scene since opening in 1977. It has a Brutalist architectural design that was unique in England at the time of its inauguration.
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From rock and pop concerts to children’s entertainment and sports tournaments, this is one of the most popular live event venues in Brighton.

4. Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier is the heart of the town’s seaside entertainment scene. Spend an afternoon eating cotton candy and riding thrilling roller coasters and come back in the evening for a stroll.
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Brighton Pier

5. Beachy Head

Beachy Head, a slice of windswept chalk headland overlooking the English Channel, is one of the most striking spots in southeast England. Rising to heights of about 530 feet (160 meters) above sea level, these cliffs provide dramatic views of the rugged coastline. Trek along clifftop paths, enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery and look for birds nesting on the cliffs.
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Beachy Head which includes a city

6. University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is an educational institute nestled in the shadow of the beautiful South Downs National Park. Walk alongside students and between an interesting collection of architectural landmarks. Be part of student-organized events and follow a trail around the campus’ surrounding countryside. Established in 1961, the University of Sussex counts Nobel Prize laureates among its staff and notable politicians among its alumni.
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From a library stacked with original editions by famous authors to a performing arts venue and nature walks, there’s always something to see and do at this public research uni near Brighton.

What to do in East Dean and Friston

Popular places to visit

Beachy Head which includes a city

Beachy Head

Feel the sea breeze blow and admire the views of this white bluff, the highest chalk sea cliff in the United Kingdom.

Beachy Head
Seven Sisters

Seven Sisters

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Seven Sisters during your travels in East Dean and Friston. Wander through the seaside and beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.

Seven Sisters
Eastbourne Pier showing general coastal views and a sunset

Eastbourne Pier

Extending out from the seafront, this much-loved pier has shops, cafés, bars and restaurants.

Eastbourne Pier
Eastbourne Beach

Eastbourne Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Eastbourne Beach during your travels in Eastbourne? Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Eastbourne Beach
Sovereign Harbour showing a river or creek and a bridge

Sovereign Harbour

Stroll around the harbor-side walkways, admire the gleaming vessels moored at this marina and relax over a meal at a waterfront restaurant.

Sovereign Harbour
Eastbourne Bandstand showing a pebble beach as well as a couple

Eastbourne Bandstand

One of the focal points of the Eastbourne seafront, this 1930s entertainment venue regularly hosts music concerts.

Eastbourne Bandstand
Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum featuring heritage elements as well as a small group of people

Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum

Browse the military-themed exhibits at this fascinating museum, housed in a seemingly impregnable Napoleonic fort.

Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum
Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park featuring railway items as well as a small group of people

Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park

Ride miniature trains, bring the kids to the adventure play area and have a picnic near a picturesque lake at this family-friendly country park.

Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park

Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club

Catch an event at Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club during your trip to Eastbourne Seafront. Stroll along the area's beautiful beaches or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.

Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club
Eastbourne which includes general coastal views

Eastbourne

Frequently asked questions

Is East Dean and Friston worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in East Dean and Friston is visit Eastbourne Beach. Tick this major attraction off your to-do list, then experience more of the area's nature and walking trails.
How do I spend a day in East Dean and Friston?
Kick your day off with a visit to Eastbourne Beach and Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park. Then, tour other parts of East Dean and Friston for tasty eats and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in East Dean and Friston?
The top tourist attraction in East Dean and Friston is Eastbourne Beach, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in East Dean and Friston?
You can easily tour top attractions like Eastbourne Beach, Congress Theatre and Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park with a three-day getaway in East Dean and Friston. On average, most travellers book three days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so linger longer and head to Brighton.
Is East Dean and Friston a walkable city?
If exploring on foot sounds like your style of holiday, East Dean and Friston is a perfect place to visit. Find top attractions, including South Downs Way, within walking distance of downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Meads, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 5 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in East Dean and Friston with kids?
Deciding what to do in East Dean and Friston with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're travelling with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly activities to keep everyone busy here.

What to do in East Dean and Friston for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in East Dean and Friston, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Devonshire Park Lawn Tennis Club.
Are there free things to do in East Dean and Friston?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in East Dean and Friston is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can experience without reaching for your wallet. Eastbourne Beach is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.