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Itinerary
Eastbourne, Brighton & the South Coast – Turkey & Tinsel
After joining the coach, we make our way to our hotel and check in.
Eastbourne, Brighton & the South Coast – Turkey & Tinsel
After breakfast, we spend time in Brighton, popular for its laidback atmosphere and iconic tourist attractions such as the Royal Pavilion with its exotic architecture. Enjoy a refreshing stroll along the famous promenade, treat yourself to some chips on the beloved pier or head to the ‘Lanes’ area, crammed with quirky boutiques. Later we enjoy a traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner with all the trimmings back at the hotel.
Eastbourne, Brighton & the South Coast – Turkey & Tinsel
Our optional excursion offers a wonderful chance to see two gems in the heart of West Sussex. First up is Chichester, a Roman cathedral city where first-hand evidence of a Roman settlement remains, from the Roman Baths and the city wall to an old Roman road which links Chichester to London! Next, we head to the picturesque town of Arundel. Nestled around a fairytale castle, the streets are chock-full of cosy tearooms and curious antique shops. Most of the town dates back to Victorian times, while the castle has been home to the Dukes of Norfolk for centuries.
Eastbourne, Brighton & the South Coast – Turkey & Tinsel
We visit Alfriston, a charming village located at the foot of the stunning South Downs. In this idyllic setting, expect spectacular views as well as a wide range of galleries, cafés and shops to explore. Next is the picturesque town of Lewes, home to an ancient castle, a working brewery and beautiful medieval architecture (including a half-timbered house given to Anne of Cleves at the end of her marriage to Henry VIII). Enjoy the relaxed ambience and maybe even see a horse-drawn cart delivering beer passing by!
Eastbourne, Brighton & the South Coast – Turkey & Tinsel
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and head for home.
Alfriston Village & Lewes Heritage Visit
On day 4, travel through the South Downs to Alfriston, a flint-and-chalk village framed by the Cuckmere valley. Meander past timbered cottages and the village green to St Andrew’s – the ‘Cathedral of the Downs’, and see The Clergy House, the first property acquired by the National Trust. Take time to soak in the quiet lanes and sweeping downland views.
Continue to Lewes, whose steep streets climb to Lewes Castle, a Norman stronghold overlooking red-tiled rooftops. Browse bookshops and antiques stores, seek out Anne of Cleves House for a glimpse of Tudor Sussex, and note the chimneys of Harvey’s Brewery—where dray horses sometimes still deliver beer. Enjoy a free hour to explore before the coach returns over the chalk hills to Eastbourne.
Turkey & Tinsel ‘Christmas’ Dinner at the Cavendish Hotel
On day 2 evening, return to the Cavendish Hotel to sit down to a traditional ‘Christmas’ dinner with all the trimmings. Expect crisp roast turkey, sage stuffing, seasonal vegetables and rich gravy, served in the seafront restaurant as waves hush across the shingle below the Grand Parade.
Raise a glass to good company and coastal wintertime, then finish with mince pies and after-dinner tea and coffee. The setting within elegant Eastbourne lends a touch of Victorian resort charm—perfect for lingering conversation before the evening’s light entertainment begins.
Eastbourne Evenings: 2-for-1 Bar Socials & Light Entertainment
Each evening, gather in the Cavendish bar to take advantage of the hotel’s 2 for 1 bar on selected drinks between 6pm and 9pm. Chat with fellow travellers, watch the sunset glow over the Channel and soak in the seaside atmosphere before or after dinner on Eastbourne’s elegant Grand Parade.
Afterwards, enjoy light entertainment laid on by the hotel—perhaps a live singer, a friendly quiz or gentle social dancing. These unhurried socials provide an easy way to unwind and share the day’s highlights, with the pier lights twinkling just beyond the windows.
Chichester Roman City & Arundel Castle Town
On day 3, join an optional excursion to two West Sussex gems. In Chichester, trace the Roman street grid as you walk beside sections of the city walls, pause at the elegant Market Cross, and admire the spire of Chichester Cathedral. Consider the Novium Museum, thoughtfully built above the remains of the Roman baths, to place the city’s story in context.
Continue to Arundel, a riverside town crowned by Arundel Castle, seat of the Dukes of Norfolk. Browse antiques and tearooms, follow the River Arun for views of the battlements and enjoy a free hour for photos and exploration. This experience is at additional cost (£15pp) and bookable on tour, subject to local conditions and opening times.
Brighton Promenade, Royal Pavilion Quarter & The Lanes
On day 2, travel along the coast to Brighton and join a relaxed coastal visit that blends sea air with Regency flair. Stroll the famous promenade, pause for photos and reflection by the Brighton Palace Pier, and sample chips with vinegar as gulls wheel overhead. Drift into The Lanes to browse independent jewellers and quirky boutiques, or wander the Pavilion Gardens for a quiet green escape.
At the heart of the city, admire the Royal Pavilion with its onion domes and chinoiserie interiors, created for the Prince Regent as a seaside retreat. Hear how Brighton blossomed from fishing village to fashionable resort, then enjoy a free afternoon for cafés, arcades and people-watching before returning to Eastbourne in the late afternoon.
