Based in elegant Eastbourne, this appealing tour takes us deep into beautiful Sussex before casting the spotlight on its charming seaside towns. We ride the heritage Bluebell Railway steam train, discover the historic retreats and gardens of Standen House and Michelham Priory, and enjoy time free in Eastbourne and bohemian Hastings.
Bluebell Railway 1 - Credit Peter Edwards
Hastings
Michelham Priory & Tulips
Standen House
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Bluebell Railway & Standen House & Garden
This morning, we enjoy a journey on the Bluebell Railway heritage steam train from Sheffield Park to East Grinstead, riding a nostalgic train carriage as it chugs 11 miles through picturesque Sussex countryside. Next, we enjoy a visit to Standen House & Garden, considered one of the country’s finest examples of Arts & Craft workmanship. We admire the rich Morris & Co. interiors of this late-19th century house and stroll around its hillside garden, which boasts acclaimed plant collections and far-reaching views over the wooded Sussex countryside.
NB: Coach access is via a very narrow, single-lane uphill road. The site drive and main car park are gravelled and include gradients and speed bumps; coach drivers should proceed with caution on the approach and within the car park.
Day 3 Michelham Priory & Eastbourne
Today we visit Michelham Priory and Gardens, a picture-perfect, moated Tudor house founded by Augustinian canons in 1229. After crossing the moat via the medieval gatehouse, we see the house and its gardens, which include a great barn, watermill, and forge. This afternoon brings free time in Eastbourne, giving us the chance to discover this genteel resort as we wish. We can stroll the flower-lined promenade, delve into the pier, shops and cafés, and perhaps catch an open-top sightseeing bus to the white cliffs of nearby Beachy Head.
Day 4 Hastings
We spend today in Hastings where we have plenty of time at leisure to experience this historic seaside resort. One of the medieval Cinque Ports and known for the Battle of 1066 and Hastings Castle, its highlights include the quaint old town, contemporary art galleries featuring international artists, the funicular railway, and a fishing beach studded with tall black net huts and fishing boats.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
The View Hotel
Eastbourne, East Sussex
A modern stylish hotel overlooking the seafront and just a few steps away from the beach, the View Hotel offers comfortable and well-equipped guest rooms with hairdryer, flat screen TV, bathroom toiletries and free Wi-Fi. Large windows throughout the hotel offer guests the best views of the town, South Downs National Park or the English Channel. With floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor terrace, the Seafront Café offers for light bites, coffee and a full range of drinks and panoramic views across the beach. For relaxed and comfy seating, head for the light and airy reception area whilst dinner can be enjoyed in the Artisan Restaurant.
BarLiftNewParking Off Site & ChargeableRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Best Western York House Hotel
Eastbourne, East Sussex
The Victorian York House Hotel is located on the seafront, having beautiful sea views and just a short walk to the pier and centre of town. The 76 bedrooms are bright and well decorated and there is a comfortable restaurant with beautiful sea views, a good-sized bar, a sea view terrace at the front of the hotel and a small indoor swimming pool.
BarGround Floor RoomsLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking Off Site & ChargeableRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing
Inclusions
• Bluebell Railway one way journey Sheffield Park to East Grinstead
• Entrance to Standen House & Gardens
• Entrance to Michelham Priory & guided tour
The View Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £434pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £14
Based on Monday arrivals
Best Western York House Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £427pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £95
Based on Monday arrivals
