The Grand Hotel Eastbourne
Western seafront, near Meads · Hotel
View on Google MapsPhoto: The Grand Hotel
Eastbourne's landmark Victorian seafront hotel, known locally as the White Palace, with formal gardens, a spa and sea views along the western promenade.
Photos
Photos via Google
About The Grand Hotel Eastbourne
Standing at the quieter, western end of Eastbourne's seafront, The Grand Hotel has been a fixture of the town since 1875 and remains its most recognisable building, a vast white Victorian pile overlooking manicured lawns and the Channel beyond. Its scale and formality set it apart from anything else in Eastbourne, with columned public rooms, a ballroom and a long tradition of afternoon tea on the terrace.
The hotel's spa and indoor pool occupy a substantial wing to the rear, while bedrooms vary between traditional, chintz-heavy rooms in the original building and slightly plainer options in newer sections, most with views over either the gardens or the sea. Its position near Meads and the base of Beachy Head suits guests planning to walk onto the Downs directly from the hotel.
Dining runs from a formal restaurant to a more relaxed garden room, and the hotel's grounds and croquet lawn give it a resort feel unusual for a British seaside town. It is priced and positioned as Eastbourne's top address, and books up well ahead of the tennis in June and the summer season generally.
What guests say
The staff here are amazing, so friendly and engaging. They are truly 5⭐️. Thank you to David the concierge, Finn in the Mirabelle and Apple in reservations specifically and Alysia at breakfast. The hotel is a stunning architectural delight, with a fascinating history. We stayed in a seaview suite with a fabulous view and original ceiling and fireplace. Our room was tired but full of history. The jacuzzi bath didn’t work but the shower was good. Very nice toiletries. Silicone was black in places around the dated jacuzzi. The toilet seat was white but the toilet was cream. The bedding was luxe and so very comfortable. The bed was amazing. It’s warm right now but with the windows open and the lovely sea breeze together with the powerful Honeywell fan, we were comfortable, I’m a hot body going through the menopause so like a cool room. I’d say the property needs some money spending on it but overall it’s grand history makes up for some of its shortfalls. Every single team was so well trained. But there is clearly a disconnect between management and the team, they need direction snd we didn’t see any managers until complaints were made. In the garden restaurant, customers were complaining about 45-minute waits for a drink, and service was slow and thoughtless. We cancelled our dinner reservation last night because of this. We had to go to the bar twice in the lounge to ask for a drink. I also had to return to glasses of pink champagne as I’d specifically asked for Rose Nyetimber. A little more training required for the wait staff there I think. The third glass was warm so I took that back too and the bar steward apologised again for the mistake. The bar steward was a very competent lady but she was all alone so service was very slow. We witnessed a customer stating the service was shocking. Then a manager appeared. He walked the room, offered champagne to a couple who were clearly regulars and then left. I think the staff need more direction, not just firefighting when things go wrong. The food and service in Mirabelle was exceptional. The care taken by Apple to make sure my husband received his lemon meringue pie in the room on arrival was amazing.
3 weeks ago · via Google
We had a wonderful stay at this hotel for a few days and thoroughly enjoyed our experience. From the moment we arrived, Tony and Cole at the entrance made us feel welcome. As our first point of contact, they set a great impression of the hotel with their friendly attitude and willingness to help with our heavy luggage. Their warm greetings each day were much appreciated. The swimming pool was excellent, and dining at the Mirabelle Restaurant was a highlight of our stay. The food was outstanding, I never imagined cod could be prepared so beautifully and taste so delicious. The only area that could use some attention is the hallway carpet on the first floor, which appeared a little worn and faded. Aside from that, the hotel was fantastic and certainly lived up to its grand reputation. We would happily recommend this hotel and look forward to returning in the future.
2 months ago · via Google
This is the second time staying at this hotel. The staff and rooms are great. The food is also top notch, the breakfast is wonderful. however- It seems quite expensive overall for the stay. £6.00 for a tea? There were so many children in both the outside and indoor pools you couldn't swim. I understand it's a family hotel but the indoor pool is meant to be a spa not Butlins. There are not enough sun loungers and if you are going specially because they have an outdoor pool expect to wait a long time for them to become free..we didn't manage to get one the whole of Saturday.
a month ago · via Google
A beautiful and truly grand hotel full of history and charm. The staff were exceptionally friendly and provided excellent service throughout our stay. Our room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The location is ideal for visiting the Seven Sisters. Breakfast was convenient and very good, and we especially enjoyed relaxing in the lounge with its coffee service. We only wish we had stayed longer and will definitely return on a future visit.
2 months ago · via Google
Guests consistently praise this hotel for its delicious food, including excellent breakfast and afternoon tea. The warm, attentive, and professional staff are also frequently mentioned for providing exceptional service.
Some reviews mention the service can be inconsistent.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- King Edward's Parade, Eastbourne, BN21 4EQ Get directions
- Property type
- Hotel
- Location
- Western seafront, near Meads
- Star rating
- 5 star
- Guest score
- 8.9 / 10 (1,400 reviews)
- Prices from
- £210 per night
- Good for children
- Yes
- Destination
- Eastbourne