City Plan Eastbourne + Bexhill + Hastings UK

Eastbourne, Bexhill, and Hastings are three coastal towns located in East Sussex, on the southern coast of the United Kingdom. Each of these towns has a rich history and a unique character.

1. Eastbourne:
   • Eastbourne is a seaside resort town with a history dating back to the Roman era, although it became a popular resort in the 19th century.
   • The town’s growth was largely driven by its popularity among the Victorian and Edwardian upper class. The Eastbourne Pier, built in the 1870s, is a notable Victorian-era landmark.
   • During World War II, Eastbourne, like many coastal towns, played a role in defense and was subjected to bombing raids.
   • Eastbourne is known for its beautiful gardens, particularly the Eastbourne Carpet Gardens and the South Downs National Park nearby.
2. Bexhill-on-Sea:
   • Bexhill-on-Sea is known for its Edwardian and Victorian architecture and its association with the De La Warr Pavilion, a modernist building that is a prominent cultural center.
   • The town’s history goes back to the Saxon era, and it was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086.
   • The De La Warr Pavilion, built in the 1930s, is a key symbol of Bexhill’s history. It was designed by the architects Serge Chermayeff and Erich Mendelsohn and is considered a masterpiece of modernist architecture.
   • Bexhill has a strong cultural heritage and hosts various events and exhibitions at the De La Warr Pavilion.
3. Hastings:
   • Hastings is perhaps most famous for its role in the 1066 Battle of Hastings, where William the Conqueror defeated King Harold II, leading to the Norman conquest of England.
   • The town has a rich maritime history, and its Old Town is a charming area with narrow streets and historic buildings.
   • Hastings Pier, like many Victorian-era piers, has played a significant role in the town’s history, although it has undergone several renovations and changes over the years.
   • Hastings is also known for its annual Hastings International Chess Congress, one of the world’s oldest chess tournaments.

These three towns have evolved over the centuries, with their histories intertwined with the sea, tourism, and cultural developments. Today, they continue to attract visitors with their unique charm, historical sites, and scenic coastal beauty.