A Historic Legacy
Built in 1875, the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne, affectionately known as 'The White Palace', stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Victorian era. This iconic hotel has played host to a distinguished list of guests, including Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin, Arthur Conan Doyle, Elgar, and King Constantine of Greece. The hotel's storied history and association with illustrious figures have cemented its reputation as one of the United Kingdom's most magnificent Victorian hotels.
An Architectural Gem on the Seafront
Situated on the seafront at Eastbourne, the Grand Hotel commands a breathtaking view of the sea and the picturesque cliffs at Beachy Head. The hotel’s imposing façade and 400-foot frontage were the brainchild of local resident William Earp, who proposed the construction in 1874 with a budget of £50,000. The result was a majestic structure surrounded by ornamental gardens and tennis courts, perfectly positioned to cater to the upper classes who frequented Eastbourne for their extended seaside holidays, often accompanied by their entire staff.
A Hub of Musical Excellence
The Grand Hotel has a long-standing association with music. Notably, Debussy completed his symphony 'La Mer' in Suite 200 in 1905. From 1924 to 1939, the Grand Hotel Orchestra broadcasted live from the Great Hall on the BBC’s program “Grand Hotel,” captivating audiences every Sunday night. The hotel also served as a filming location for Dennis Potter’s "Cream In My Coffee," wherein Potter aptly described it as ‘a huge, creamy palace’.
Resilience Through Adversity
The Second World War brought significant challenges to Eastbourne, making it vulnerable to air raids. Consequently, the Grand Hotel was closed and repurposed as a military headquarters. Despite these turbulent times, the hotel’s grandeur endured, and in 1965, it was taken over by the De Vere Hotel Group.
Restoration and Modernization
In 1998, Elite Hotels acquired the Grand Hotel and embarked on a comprehensive refurbishment project. The aim was to restore the hotel's luxurious 5-star accommodations, which include 152 rooms, many offering stunning sea views, while modernizing facilities to meet contemporary standards. Today, the Grand Hotel seamlessly blends its historical charm with 21st-century comforts, making it an ideal base for exploring Sussex or indulging in its excellent leisure amenities.
Leisure and Relaxation
Guests at the Grand Hotel can enjoy a range of top-notch leisure facilities, including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a health spa, a well-equipped gym, and both sauna and steam rooms. The hotel's prime location also provides easy access to a variety of attractions in Eastbourne and beyond. Nearby points of interest include the Glyndebourne Opera House, Sheffield Park Gardens, Drusillas Zoo, the English Wine Centre, East Sussex Vineyards, The Royal Pavilion, and the scenic South Downs.
The Grand Hotel Eastbourne stands as a magnificent tribute to Victorian opulence and elegance. Its rich history, cultural significance, and modern luxury make it a unique and cherished destination on the UK’s southern coast. Whether exploring the charming surroundings or enjoying the hotel's exceptional facilities, visitors to the Grand Hotel are sure to experience a blend of historical grandeur and contemporary comfort.
