Bexhill-on-Sea

Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex Town Guide

About Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex

Bexhill-on-Sea retains much of the charm and style that made it a favourite of the Victorian and Edwardian aristocracy. It lies between Eastbourne and Hastings in the beautiful 1066 Country area, and is in within easy reach of many castles and attractions such as the beautiful medieval town of Rye.

Bexhill’s history dates back to 771 when it was granted a charter by King Offa of Mercia, establishing a church and community. In Medieval times it was a base for infamous smuggling gangs. Later in 1804, during the Napoleonic wars, soldiers of the King’s German Legion were stationed there.

The Sackville Hotel known as “the Jewel of the South Coast” was where the Edwardian aristocracy stayed to play and party in luxurious style.

Bexhill was one of the first places to allow mixed sea bathing – very avant-garde for the time. Another landmark date was 1902 when Bexhill hosted the first international motor racing event.

Bexhill has kept its elegant two-mile promenade, where deck chairs and beach huts can be hired. The world famous De La Warr Pavilion also lies along the seafront and offers an excellent arts programme throughout the year.

There are many interesting shops, cafés and restaurants to be found in the town where many of the buildings date from 18th century. The Museum of Costume and Social History is located in the Old Town Manor Gardens and the Bexhill Museum shows such diversity as dinosaurs and artefacts from India and Africa.

The De La Warr Pavilion

The De La Warr Pavilion was the dream of the 9th Earl de la Warr. The Earl drew up a list of ideas for a modern building in Bexhill to be built on the seafront. The criteria was for a light and airy building with clean simple lines to be used as an entertainment venue, restaurant and reading room.

The De La Warr Pavillion was commissioned in 1935 and designed by architects Eric Mendlesohn and Serge Chermayeff. It was the first public building in Britain to be built in the Modernist style, with a revolutionary structure of steel and concrete. The aim of the building was to provide a centre of culture and leisure for the people of Bexhill and the surrounding area. Today the building is Grade 1 listed and widely recognised as a perfect example of the Modernist Movement.

Seventy years on the Pavilion has undergone extensive restoration and now offers visitors a large contemporary art gallery with an exciting arts programme. There is a also a shop specialising in books on art and culture and a café- restaurant.

What’s new?

Weruwise

Specialising in the installation of English and German replacement windows and door systems since 1982.

Listed in: Windows and Doors

What’s 🔥?

Bexfest
Bexfest

, 2:00pm – 10:30pm
De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill-on-Sea

Next event

The Other Band
The Other Band

5:30pm
The Ruddy Duck, Bexhill-on-Sea

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Attractions and Activities

The Manor Barn

Manor Barn is a historic timber-framed building located in Bexhill’s old town. The gardens are well-maintained and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the town. Visitors can wander through the formal gardens, which feature neatly trimmed … more

Bexhill Beach

Bexhill’s beach is a beautiful shingle beach that stretches for approximately two miles from Galley Hill in the west to the Polegrove in the east. The beach offers a picturesque setting with stunning views of the English Channel and is … more

Bexhill Coronation Bandstand

The Bexhill Coronation Bandstand holds a significant place in history and culture. Beyond its transformation into a multi-purpose space in 2023, it has played a role in the town’s social life and events over the years. Originally commissioned by the … more

Accommodation

Coast B&B

Coast Bed and Breakfast is an elegant Edwardian townhouse offering a refined stay in the delightful coastal setting of Bexhill-on-Sea. This award-winning establishment is conveniently located near local attractions including the sailing club, the De La Warr Pavilion, and a … more

Seaspray Rooms

Seaspray Rooms is a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Bexhill-On-Sea, offering a delightful coastal retreat. This seaside B&B is ideal for both holiday goers and business travellers, providing a professional yet cosy atmosphere. With nine individually … more

The Albany Rooms

The Albany Rooms Bexhill is a stylish guesthouse located in the coastal town of Bexhill-on-Sea. This accommodation offers a range of well-furnished rooms including family rooms, cozy doubles, and large king-size rooms, some with ensuite facilities. Emphasising comfort and convenience, … more

Restaurants

De La Warr Pavilion

The first public Modernist building to be opened in the UK in 1935, this Grade 1 listed, internationally renowned icon re-opened after a £9m lottery funded restoration and redevelopment. It is now the South East region’s most significant centre for … more

Seed

Seed is a tapas bar in Hastings’ historic Old Town. Known for its fusion of traditional Spanish and contemporary flavours, Seed offers a variety of tapas dishes that cater to both meat-eaters and vegetarians. The establishment provides a cosy atmosphere, … more

The Driftwood Bexhill

The Driftwood Bexhill is a boutique hotel and restaurant located in the seaside town of Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex. Housed in a classic Victorian building, this establishment is just a minute’s walk from the seafront promenade and the iconic … more

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