East Sussex
East Sussex is the more populous half of the former county of Sussex, home as it is to the major conurbations of Brighton (often bracketed with nearby Hove), Hastings and Eastbourne. These traditional seaside communities may have had their troubles over the years with the decline of the picture postcard holiday, but their regeneration in recent times has meant they remain popular with homebuyers.
Brighton dominates, with its large population and varied and distinctive combination of amenities and culture, but don’t overlook the other towns too for they offer much of what their bigger cousin has, albeit with more competitive house prices.
The coastline is, obviously, predominant in East Sussex but don’t forget the inland gems too –pretty towns, villages and hamlets are dotted around idyllic countryside. Add in the swift road and rail links to the capital and East Sussex just about has it all as a superb place in which to live.
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Brighton – this cosmopolitan city’s fabulous mix of period architecture with modern developments cheek by jowl means there is something in the mix for everyone and with the Sussex Downs and the wider south coast on its doorstep, it’s not hard to leave the city behind for a day or a few hours and drink in the wonders of the local environment.
Hastings – home to much regenerative investment of late, Hastings is a charming and characterful coastal town with a fantastic mix of period properties, modern apartments and historic houses, many with wonderful views out to sea.
Eastbourne – it might have previously had a reputation for a disproportionate amount of retirees, but don’t overlook Eastbourne’s growing popularity with urban dwellers who find its mix of competitively priced options, fresh air and green spaces very appealing.
Lewes – the administrative and civic capital of the county, as a consequence Lewes has a strong economy and a wide variety of facilities, and as result it has popular appeal for homebuyers, drawn to both the town and its pretty surrounding villages.
Hove – often seen to be in the shadow of its immediate neighbour Brighton, it would be unfair to overlook Hove, offering as it does some spectacular properties from period homes to luxury apartments.
Best Hotels in East Sussex
The Gallivant (https://thegallivant.co.uk) is a beautiful boutique hotel with amazing rooms and fabulous food offered all day long. Claverton House (https://clavertonhotel.co.uk) is a lovely hotel situated in an elegant Edwardian property and offering beautiful bedrooms and find dining options. The Grand (www.grandbrighton.co.uk) in Brighton will forever be associated with the IRA’s 1984 bombing but, shrugging that malevolent history aside, it still remains an iconic spot right on the seafront and has recently undergone a major upgrade which only adds to its appeal.
Best Restaurants in East Sussex
Wingrove House (https://www.wingrovehousealfriston.com) is a restaurant with rooms where the first class quality of the menu is matched by the elegant surrounding and superb accommodation. Paskins (http://www.paskins.co.uk) offers an imaginative and changing menu in funky, art deco surroundings. St Clement’s (http://www.stclementsrestaurant.co.uk) is a quirky and quality place in which to dine…with a funky vibe and superb fish options on the menu.
Best Schools in East Sussex
Bede’s School (http://www.bedes.org) has a fantastic reputation for the quality of education offered to pupils aged 13 to 19 with amazing results. The school also has a linked prep. Eastbourne College (https://www.eastbourne-college.co.uk) prides itself on the brilliance of its pastoral care while also providing a superb education – day and boarding – for boys and girls aged 13 to 18. Rodean Moira House (http://www.moirahouse.co.uk) is a first class school catering for girls aged 1 to 18, with a mixed nursery.
Buying Agents Fact
The first building acquired by the National Trust was The Clergy House in Alfriston https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/alfriston-clergy-house) purchased in 1896 for £10.