Our Exclusive Interview With Santa!

To our VisitEastbourne fans… you’ve stuck by us all year round through scorching heat waves and the December wind and rain, so here’s our Christmas gift to all you good girls and boys – an exclusive interview with the man himself…  Santa Claus!

Santa, we are delighted you are taking time out of your busy pre-Christmas schedule to talk to us today.  You must be busy at your Christmas Cottage in Drusillas Park, how’s it all going?

Everything is going very merrily indeed. I have a lot of help from my elves and we are having a lovely time meeting all the boys and girls at Drusillas Park and finding out what they would like for Christmas. My Cottage is bursting with presents the elves have made ready for delivery on Christmas Eve and children can sit on my sleigh, which is parked just outside, to have their photo taken.

Have the people of Eastbourne been good this year?

Yes, Eastbourne has such a wonderful community spirit I think you’ve all been amazing this year.  Your Santa Fun Run event for charity tickled me greatly, what fun I had jogging along! And your 12 days of Christmas Competition was a great celebration and I was happy to supply the gifts early - it’s so important at Christmas time to celebrate what we have, and to help those in need.

Your team of reindeer must be getting ready for their big trip on Christmas Eve, how do you prepare them?

Like all animals, it is very important that I care for my reindeers properly to ensure they remain happy and healthy; after all they have a very important job to do!

I always make sure they are well fed and have plenty of fresh water and during December I give them extra helpings of grass, moss, birch and willow leaves to help them through the long night on the 24th December.

My pre-flight checks involve a thorough look at their antlers and hooves! After Christmas male reindeers lose their antlers before new ones grow back again for next year. During the winter months, their hoof pads also shrink and tighten to help with the cold conditions…and reduce slipping on rooftops!

What other animals live near your main home at the North pole?

 When I’m back home at the North Pole, I see a whole host of other wildlife, including polar bears, seals, whales, arctic foxes, arctic wolves and sometimes the beautiful snowy owl, like the two at Drusillas. I have to come to the zoo though to see penguins - they live in the South Pole which lots of people don’t realise!

Do you have any special gifts for the people of Eastbourne?

Next year is going to be very exciting indeed as we have another great list of events planned with Magnificent Motors, Carnival, Tennis, Extreme, Airbourne, two beer events and much more!

How do you celebrate on Christmas Day?

Well delivering presents all around the world is quite exhausting, so I always have a little nap and feed the reindeer when I get home.  I’m usually refreshed by mid morning, so with a little Santa magic, I might take Mrs Claus to the free Christmas Day concert at the Redoubt Fortress for some festive singing and dancing.

What festive gifts will you and Mrs Claus be getting each other this year?

I have a book on Eastbourne History for Mrs Claus as she is very excited to go to the new Ancestors Exhibition at the Pavilion in February. She’ll be ready to see the fascinating reconstructions and findings that the Ancestors team have uncovered.

I’m hoping for panto tickets to see Aladdin at the Devonshire Park Theatre – the evil Abanazaar is being a bit greedy wanting the magic lamp, so he won’t be getting any Christmas presents this year!

What’s your favourite Christmas Film?

It’s got to be White Christmas, I try and watch it every year but I am extra excited this year as the stage version is on at the Royal Hippodrome Theatre! Opening on 19 December and running to 4 January, the show is based on the paramount film and includes some fantastic festive cheer and songs, including the famous ‘White Christmas’. I can’t wait!

Thank you Santa for taking the time to talk to us, before we go - any special requests?

A mince pie or two and a carrot for Rudolph would be lovely, however the most important thing is for you all to have a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends, help those around you and celebrate your wonderful town of Eastbourne!

Merry Christmas Santa!

Visit Santa in his Christmas Cottage at Drusillas Park between now and 23 December, open from 10am to 5pm each day.

Drusillas Lights Up Our Festive Season

We’re blessed in Eastbourne with so much festive fun on offer, but a Christmas highlight not to be missed in your busy December diary is the fantastic Winter Wonderland at Drusillas Park!

With the kids getting so excited already before Christmas its getting tricky to keep them amused each day, but a day out at this stunning South Downs attraction is a sure fire way to keep them out of trouble.

Sunbathing Meerkats!

On a crisp but sunny winters day, we began our mission looking out for our favourite animals with the kids stamping their Animal Spotter Books with much gusto.  Monkeys, lemurs, snakes, owls, servals, flamingos and even a Red Panda were all favourites, along with the all-singing Mokomos Jungle Rock.

Great entertainment was on offer at the meerkat enclosure with the loveable creatures sunbathing and swinging on the sunlamp, much to the delight of the gathering audience.

Spectacular views of the penguins

The penguins were on fine form too with both the Humboldt and Rockhopper penguins taking a dip, giving us the most fantastic underwater views from behind the viewing window.

After an adventure play-stop at Go Wild and Go Bananas, a ride on Thomas the Tank Engine is always a must and after stopping off for hot donuts we climbed aboard this iconic engine for our leisurely trip around the park, with a lovely festive surprise in the railway tunnel.

Thomas keeps warm in cosy earmuffs!

However the highlight of the afternoon was still to come and with the audience building, the events arena was alive with anticipation.  Excited children were guided in to meet the man of the moment in Santa’s Christmas Cottage, and there were photo opportunities galore outside with children climbing aboard his sleigh.  Then a fantastic surprise for us as we turned around to see the adorable huskies, enjoying a hug from their fans in the audience.

Then a final countdown brought the most amazing turn out and a 30 minute lightshow sprang into life, all synchronised to our fave festive hits!  Set in an ice-capped kingdom, reindeers, penguins, seals and polar bears all lit up alongside trees and a stunning LED waterfall, all in tune to the music and an animation shown on the big screen.

An amazing show!

Winter Wonderland has been a huge success for Drusillas and with the promise of the brand new Hello Kitty Secret Garden opening in Spring 2014, children can look forward to even more fun with three new theme park rides.

Winter Wonderland continues until Sunday 5 January with a lightshow at 4.30pm each day.  Hug a Husky returns from 1 – 5pm every weekend in the Ice Cave and then daily from 19 - 23 December.  Meet Santa in his Christmas Cottage every weekend and then daily from 14 – 23 December.

For more info visit www.drusillas.co.uk

Merry Christmas everyone and enjoy lots of festive fun!

Tracey

Drusillas Festive Facts…

Between 60,000 and 70,000 LED lights are used to create the 30 minute festive lightshow, which took 3 weeks to build.

Huskies are found in the arctic and northern regions and are one of the oldest types of breed of dog in the world

Snowy Owls are found in the Arctic, their mottled feathers camouflage them against snowy tundra. 

Humboldt penguins, one of the rarest species of penguin in the world, all have a different pattern of markings on their chest, just like human fingerprints.

Winter Wonder in Eastbourne!

With Christmas fast approaching, why not watch the magic unfold in Eastbourne over the winter season? Each year is bringing you a bigger and better extravaganza; Be sure to visit our fantastic events to bring you some fun & laughter over the Holidays.

29^th November 2013 – January 2014

Drusilla’s Winter Wonderland

To enjoy the enchantment of Christmas visit Drusilla’s Park at 4:30pm this December to reveal a magnificent winter wonderland display for all of the family. Father Christmas will make his annual return to the zoo where he will be pleased to meet all of the children for fun and magic this Christmas. Also available are hot honey roasted chest nuts, as well as a glass of mulled wine for the adults!

1^st December 2013

Santa Fun Run & Walk, Eastbourne Seafront

For the 7^th year running, the Santa Fun Run is back to bring you some festive cheer! Santa’s will be making their appearance at the Sovereign Centre Eastbourne and ho ho ho-ing their way to Holy well Tea Chalet. The Santa’s are hoping to beat last year’s grand total of £15,000 for the fantastic charity MGA.

2^nd December 2013

Russian State Ballet & Opera House; the Nutcracker; Congress Theatre

After a successful premiere year at the Congress, the Nutcracker is back with its wonderful live orchestra to bring you an unforgettable 3 day Christmas spectacular. The Nutcracker, Swan Lake & Romeo and Juliet are set to bring you a beautiful fairytale for all of the family. Performance times are 7:30pm. Ticket prices range from £22 - £32; with discounts available for over 60’s, students, unemployed, children and disabled.

Also at the Congress Theatre is A Christmas Spectacular, presented by the fabulous Rattonians each year. Come along and join in the fun 6^th-8^th December. £12.50 per ticket; show time starts at 19:30.

3^rd December 2013

Wonderland Late Night Opening & Curator Talk, Towner

Join in with the fun at Eastbourne’s Towner Art Gallery, for a special Christmas Evening Event where you will discover more about the Towner’s Wonderland Exhibition with the collection curator. You can also find some wonderful Christmas gifts at the in store shop.

7^th December 2013

Christmas cheer at the Eastbourne Enterprise Centre

This is your chance to meet Santa every Saturday and Sunday, as well as his reindeers on the 15^th December. There is also a popular gift fair including 35 stalls selling everything you need for Christmas shopping. This takes place on the 1^st December for everyone to enjoy. Receive a complimentary mulled wine and mince pie on any visit which is free! Festive friends will also be on hand to welcome customers hoping to raise even more money than last years total of over £600 for the Chestnut Tree Children’s Charity.

Little Chelsea Christmas, South Street Eastbourne

South Street is once again coming to life for the 4^th year to bring you Christmas Magic offering great festivities for all of the family. Available will be: Santa’s Grotto and his reindeer, carol singing and dancing, a delicious hog roast, market stalls & late night shopping. You can find some special and unique gifts, and why not warm yourself up with a delicious mulled wine & mince pie. An evening not to be missed! The fun starts at 5:30-10:00pm.

Stargazing with Eastbourne Astronomical Society, Redoubt Fortress and Military Museum

Ever wanted to explore more of the night sky and become familiar with constellation patterns and galaxies? Why not join the Eastbourne Astronomical Society as they host a fun filled evening stargazing at the Redoubt Fortress. Beginners are all welcome as well as experienced; the event is free with hot drinks available. Warm clothes are advisable.

13^th December – 12^th January 2014

Aladdin! Traditional Fun Filled Pantomime, Devonshire Park Theatre  

Everybody loves A Panto! So why not join in the fun? It is back once again ensured to entertain you and the family, taking you on a spectacular adventure. Featuring your favourite characters Wishee Washee, Widow Twankey and of course the fabulous Genie the lamp. Tickets are selling fast! Contact the Devonshire Park Theatre for more details.

14^th December 2013

Historic Old Town Christmas Party & Seasonal Street Market, Eastbourne Old Town

Why not venture into Eastbourne’s Historical Old Town to visit the seasonal street market full of wonderful Christmas gifts and joy. Eastbourne’s oldest village also welcomes you to visit the historical St Mary’s Church, Manor Gardens, Motcombe Lake and Pilgrims House.

Jongleurs Comedy On The Road, Royal Hippodrome Theatre

The Royal Hippodrome Theatre welcomes Comedy on the Road on 14^th December 2014 with an exciting line up of comedians. A wonderful night out in the run up to Christmas! Tickets are £12/£10 concessions.

25^th/26^th December 2013

Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day

Eastbourne’s silver band are returning to yet again bring a morning of entertainment you on Christmas Day with 90 minutes of festive tunes and fun. Why not join in with the magical Christmas Spirit and watch Eastbourne’s longest tradition at the Redoubt Fortress at 10:45am. Also available are hot and cold drinks including mulled wine on a lovely winter’s day. 

Sid and Scrat to Switch On Winter Wonderland Illuminations at Drusillas Park

Sid and Scrat from Ice Age will switch on the spectacular Winter Wonderland Illuminations at Drusillas Park this year, when they visit the award-winning zoo for the first time ever on Saturday 30th November.

Sid & Scrat from Ice Age

The beloved duo will meet and greet visitors at intervals throughout the day before switching on the lights during a grand ceremony at 4.30pm, marking the official start to Drusillas Park’s Christmas Winter Wonderland 2013.

Sid and Scrat are sure to feel right at home as the spectacular Illuminations are set within an ice-capped kingdom and feature an animal themed light show synchronised to music. Young revellers can see a host of magical creatures within the dazzling display, adding some extra sparkle to the festive season from 4.30pm each day, from Saturday 30th November until Sunday 5th January.

Drusillas Winter Wonderland

Also making his first appearance of the year on 30^th November, Father Christmas will make a welcome return to the zoo. Visit his cosy Christmas Cottage and have your picture taken in his sleigh; for a small additional charge children can meet Santa and receive an early Christmas gift.  Plus visitors can also Hug a Husky on selected dates, or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie.

Located just off the A27, Drusillas Park is open from 10:00am until 5:00pm daily, with the exception of 24th, 25th and 26th December.  For further information and dates for Santa’s Christmas Cottage and Hug a Husky events please telephone (01323) 874100 or visit the website at www.drusillas.co.uk

Ravilious Talk and Book Signing at Towner

On Saturday 9 November at 3pm, Towner welcomes Alan Powers to talk about local artist; Eric Ravilious. He will also be signing copies of his new book about the artist.

More popular than ever, the work of Eric Ravilious (1903-42) is rooted in the landscape of pre-war and early wartime England.  This new book by Alan Powers, the established authority on Ravilious, provides the most comprehensive overview to date of the artist’s work in all media – watercolour, illustration, printmaking, graphic design, textiles and ceramics – and firmly positions Ravilious as a major figure in the history of early 20th century British art.

The lecture will look at the role of the sea in Ravilious’ watercolours, murals and prints, as well as his use of coastal scenes, harbours and docks as suggestive subject matters. This aspect of his work will be explored in relation to other artists and the 1930’s Modernist cult of the seaside. 

Alan Powers is a historian and curator, specialising in twentieth century British art, architecture and design. He curated the exhibition of Eric Ravilious: Imagined realities, at the Imperial War Museum in 2003. He is currently working on an introduction to a reprint of John Piers Brighton Aquatints for Mainstone press and an exhibition ‘Letters from America: The Graphic art of Ivan Chermayeff’, for the De La Warr Pavilion which opens on July 2014.

His new book on Ravilious was recently published by Lund Humphries. There is an opportunity to buy the book at the event, have it signed and speak with the author. The book is £35 with members receiving 10% discount.

The talk is 1 hour long and takes place at Towner on Saturday 9 November at 3pm. It is £6, £5 for concessions and £4 for members.

 To book or to find out more information go to www.townereastbourne.org.uk

Top 5 most haunted places in Eastbourne!

This week we have a fantastic guest blogger who's written a brilliant in sight into Eastboune's haunted past and the ghost's that are said to roam the land - oooooooh spooky!

With Halloween fast approaching why not take a visit to one of Eastbourne's top 5 spookiest places.

Beachy Head:

By day the stunning south down cliffs make for a beautiful scenic walk, by night the strange happenings are enough to scare anyone off. Do you dare take a moonlit walk, with some unexpected company?

It has been reported on many occasions that harmless walkers have been greeted by some spooky guests. The most commonly reported is the Grey Lady who has been seen walking along the cliffs, she has been said to approach walkers, and most people mistake her for a harmless passer by, until she suddenly vanishes into thin air. One dog walker was taking an evening stroll when the lady approached him, lent over to stroke his petrified dog that ran off howling, and then disappeared in front of his eyes.

There is also the Monk in black who is said to beckon people to their death, although no known monastery has ever been discovered on the downs. He is said to appear from no where and calmly point to the edge of the cliffs.

Would you take the risk of meeting one of these two on a misty evening on the cliffs?

Royal Hippodrome Theatre:

The Victorian theatre, built in 1883, has so much history and being the oldest theatre in town there are bound to be some creepy spirits. The building has been host to many play, musicals and variety shows, who knows who is left walking the creaky boards.

There are said to be a few ghosts who haunt the historic walls, a lady has been spotted sitting in the grand circle harmlessly watching rehearsals and she will occasionally visit the stage when it's quieter, no one knows her identity or why she still visits the building.

Some people have reported being pushed and grabbed by unexplained forces, and then feeling the atmosphere around them gets remarkably colder.

Pevensey Castle:

Having been host to many battles, at Pevensey Castle you are definitely going to feel the presence of something. Many people have said to have seen the ghost of Lady Pelham who has been seen walking the crumbling walls at dust, elegantly gliding and then suddenly disappearing. In 1976, 4 young boys were left petrified after they reported seeing her, could you handle being that close to a ghost?

The dungeons of the castle are very claustrophobic and no one knows what went on in them, dogs refuse to stand anywhere near the stairs let alone venture into the dungeons. Let your imagination take over!

Gildredge Manor (Gildredge Road):

This manor, a former art gallery, belonged to a local reverend until he died and it was taken over by the local council. Medieval marks were found on the cellar walls and local architects had no clues as to where they came from or who had done them. To this day they are still unexplained. Maybe they come from the people whose voices you can still hear around the building. Staff at the former art gallery have said they have often heard muffled conversations when the gallery was closed, and clear footsteps, after searches no one has ever been found.

There are many hidden rooms in the manor house, which got blocked off when the gallery was converted. Who knows what lurks behind those walls.

Redoubt Fortress:

The fortress was built in the 19^th century as a defence against the threat of invasion from Napoleon. It was also used in the first and second world war as a base for troops and also possibly a prison/interrogation centre. With all the history and unused casemates there must be some unexplained events. Ghost walks are now being hosted at this historical location, who knows what you might discover.

Other sightings at the fortress reportedly include a strange crouching man on the gun platform, the mysterious woman in a white gown and also an eerie figure walking through the cell walls. However one of the most common reports is of cold and uneasy feelings in the cells and in particular casemate 11!

That's it for now folks, so keep those eye's peeled and let us know if you have any stories of your own or spot anything extra ordinary! 

Curators Talk For The Lyons Teashops Lithographs at Towner

Join the exhibition curator for a walk and talk through The Lyons Teashops Lithographs: Art In A Time Of Austerity on Thursday 12 September at 12.30pm.

Visitors will be able to hear the fascinating story of how 29 of the 40 lithographs were discovered in a corner of the old Towner Art Gallery’s collection store, and through careful conservation restored to their former glory. The talk will then go on to show how the team acquired the rest of the set to make it complete.

Guests will also learn about the history of the lithograph project and the artists involved, including John Lake who was Curator of the Towner Art Gallery at the time of his commission in 1947.

The talk is free to visitors with an entry ticket to The Lyons Teashop Lithographs exhibition. Entry to the exhibition is £5.50 for adults and £4 for concessions, members free.

The talk takes place at Towner on 12 September at 12.30pm, for more information go to www.townereastbourne.org.uk

The Lyons Teashop Lithographs: Art in a time of Austerity

Post-war British artists including Edward Bawden, John Piper, David Gentleman, John Minton, William Scott, Duncan Grant, John Nash and L .S. Lowry form part of The Lyons Teashops Lithographs: Art in a Time of Austerity. The exhibition celebrates Towner’s collection of the complete set of 40 lithographs commissioned by catering giant J. Lyons & Co. to combat the wartime decline in the interiors of their famous Lyons Teashops, compounded by a post-war lack of decorating materials.

Through the company’s enterprising approach to arts patronage and interior decoration, the cream of modern British art was for the first time accessible to a wider public in 200 Lyons Teashops nationwide.

Towner’s exhibition presents all three series of lithographs – commissioned between 1946-1955 - together with a selection of the original paintings and working drawings.  Whilst some of the artists were able to produce their own lithographs, others created watercolour, oil, gouache, pen and ink, or collaged works that were then turned into the final lithograph. The works were produced on a large enough scale to conceal the faded teashop decors. War artists, Royal College of Art alumni, and well-known and emerging practitioners were chosen to produce tasteful works of art that would appeal to the typical Lyons Teashop The Lyons Teashops Lithographs are a key legacy of these pioneering times, the last Teashop having closed its doors in 1981.

In addition, the Towner café has been transformed to give a special Lyons – inspired experience of “tea and slice of art” where the café will have its very own ‘Nippie’!

Free Entry and Fireworks Brings a Spectacular Close to Proms on the Lawn

Fans of Last Night of the Proms can look forward to FREE entry to the live screening and fireworks in Eastbourne this Saturday 7 September, as Proms on the Lawn provides a stunning musical finale live on the big screen!

With live music on the seafront Western Lawns in the afternoon from classical string quartet Ensemble Reza, the countdown begins to the live BBC screening at 7.30pm featuring traditional flag waving favourites such as Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory. 
A fantastic firework finale will follow the concert to bring a spectacular end to the evening.

The event will kick off with Ensemble Reza at 3.45pm featuring a wealth of talent, with members having performed with the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, to name but a few.  For this concert, Ensemble Reza will also be joined by Jane Haughton – one of Britain’s finest mezzo-sopranos, having sung with the Royal Opera House.

The group will be performing a programme that will have the audience dancing in their seats. From all singing sea shanties and jazzy Gershwin hits to the more sublime classical works, including Vivaldi’ Four Seasons, Beethoven’s String Quartet Op 16 No 1, George Butterworth’s ‘Love Blows as the Wind Blows, as well as pieces by Dvorak, Berlioz and lesser known Greek dances.

The live screening from the Royal Albert Hall follows, beginning at 7.30pm with Nigel Kennedy and Joyce DiDonato the star soloists in the programme which picks up both sea-faring and transatlantic themes.  It will begin with the world premiere of a celebratory new work by Anna Clyne, a rare performance of Britten’s 1967 overture for chorus and orchestra ‘The Building of the House’, a touch of Broadway magic and female conductor Marin Alsop takes charge, becoming the first woman to ever conduct the Last Night!

Gates open at 3pm on Saturday 7 September on the Western Lawns with Ensemble Reza starting the show at 3.45pm followed by live BBC footage on the big screen from 7.30pm. The evening will then finish with a Fireworks Finale at approximately 10.45pm.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs, lights and red, white and blue for what is sure to be a rousing afternoon and evening of a great British tradition. A full licensed bar and catering is available at the event.

Entry for this event is now free.  Existing ticket holders can obtain refunds from the Congress Theatre Box Office or by telephoning 01323 412000. 
For more information on all events visit VisitEastbourne.com.

Last Night of The Proms On The Lawns

On Saturday 7 September, Ensemble Reza will be performing on the Western Lawns, in an afternoon and evening of entertainment   followed by big screen viewing of the BBC’S Last Night of the Proms and finishing with a firework finale.

The event will kick off with Ensemble Reza which is made up of Miriam Teppich, Andrew Thurgood, Robert Duncan, Pavlos Carvalho, Sarah Dubost-Hautefeuille and Jane Haughton.

The group brings together a wealth of talent and experience in both performance and education work with players representing some of this country’s finest orchestras including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, The London Mozart Players and The BBC Concert Orchestra to name a few.

For this concert, Ensemble Reza will be joined by Jane Haughton – one of Britain’s finest sopranos. The group will be performing a programme that will have the audience dancing in their seats. From all singing sea shanties and jazzy Gershwin hits to the more sublime classical works, including Vivaldi’ Four Seasons and lesser known Greek dances.

Last Night Of The Proms is held at the Royal Albert Hall and Nigel Kennedy and Joyce DiDonato are the star soloists in the programme. It will begin with a celebratory new work by Anna Clyne, and will also include a rare performance of Britten’s 1967 overture for chorus and orchestra ‘The Building of the House’, a touch of Broadway magic and the sound of a glass ceiling being broken as Marin Alsop takes charge of her first Last Night.


Gates open at 3.30pm on Saturday 7 September on the Western Lawns with the bar open and refreshments available. Ensemble Reza start the show at 4pm with their fantastic performance and visitors can then watch the big screen to see BBC’S Last Night of the Proms from 7.30pm. The evening will then finish with a Fireworks Finale at approximately 10.45pm.
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own blankets, chairs ,lights and red, white and blue for what is sure to be a rousing afternoon and evening of a great British tradition. A full licensed bar and catering is available at the event.

Tickets for the whole event are £12 for adults, £10 for OAP’s and those in full time education between 16 years and 18 years, and £5 for children under the age of 16. A family ticket can be purchased for £31 for two adults and two children.

Tickets are available from the Congress Theatre Box Office, Carlisle Road or by calling 01323 412000.

Airbourne welcomes Disney’s Planes with the Matadors!

Celebrating the new feature film release of Disney’s Planes, in UK cinemas 16 August 2013, Disney and the Matadors Aerobatic Team present Team Dusty and Team Ripslinger to Eastbourne’s skies for an out of this world display at Airbourne.

Airbourne 15-18 August is just weeks away and the line up is phenomenal this year. The Matadors are undergoing a Planes makeover and will be entertaining crowds with a movie inspired display!

The two fully Planes branded Sbach XtremeAir XA41s are piloted by air racing champion Paul Bonhomme (Team Dusty) and Steve Jones (Team Ripslinger).

From above the world of Cars and Cars 2, Planes is an action packed 3D animated comedy adventure featuring Dusty, a plane with dreams of competing as a high flying air racer. But Dusty’s not exactly built for racing and happens to be afraid of heights. Dusty turns to a seasoned naval aviator who helps him qualify to take on the defending race circuit champ; Ripslinger. Dusty’s courage is put to the ultimate test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible.

Visitors should look out for the Disney Racing Hangar near the arena, where they will also have the chance to meet the pilots, test their flying skills and participate in other fun activities! More details including meet and greet times can be found in the Airbourne Programme.

For more information on Eastbourne Airbourne go to www.eastbourneairshow.co.uk

Family Summer breaks in Eastbourne 2013

Family Summer breaks in Eastbourne 2013

Eastbourne is the sunniest place in the UK and with an extensive events programme which is well under way, a mix of family attractions, the South Downs and a stunning seaside, Eastbourne has something for everyone to enjoy.

Eastbourne has over 3 miles of unspoilt beaches and promenade. There are safe bathing zones, showers, toilets, refreshments and beach merchandise available along with deck chairs, parasols and sun loungers available to hire. Kidsafe safety wristbands are also available along with the chance for children to take part in lifeguard courses on the seafront.

As well as pebbled beaches, the seafront has outdoor tennis courts, a skate park and windsurfing lessons at Spray Watersports available.

Eastbourne is the gateway to the National South Downs Park where there are miles of down land ready for family picnics! The Downs are also home to the Seven Sisters Sheep centre, just a mile away from Beachy Head and offering families a unique opportunity to meet over 50 different breeds of sheep, goats, pigs, ducks, chickens, rabbits! Sheering of the sheep also happens this time of year, so a perfect time to go!

To combine the stunning seaside and the South Downs National Park, visitors can take an adventure boat trip from the Sovereign Harbour to Beachy Head with Sussex Voyages. Trips vary from 30 minutes to an hour and kids go free until the end of July with the visiteastbourne voucher – downloadable online.

Eastbourne Borough Council Cabinet Member for Tourism and Leisure, Cllr Carolyn Heaps said “Eastbourne really is the perfect getaway for families. With a list of outdoor and indoor activities, a range of accommodation and stunning unspoilt beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy!”

Eastbourne is the home of the first outdoor water park in the South East; Fort Fun Splash Park. Fort Fun is a family amusement park with a variety of attractions. Visitors can enjoy the super splash park and various rides plus an 18 hole golf course. In addition there is an indoor soft play area.

Just along from Fort Fun, families can also visit Treasure Island; a pirate themed adventure park where children can climb the shipwreck with slides, bridges, netted walkways and zip slides plus a paddling pool and sandy beach in spacious parkland.

In the same area of the Seafront, Princes Park is the home to another outdoor splash pad. Children can safely play amongst the fountains and small pools after visiting the play parks, large lake and café.

Eastbourne has a vibrant urban sports scene with skating showing to be a popular activity. Skate lessons and discos are available from the Sk8 School and Eastbourne Skating Club at the Sovereign Centre and skate parks. All ages are welcome to join in the fun whilst visiting Eastbourne!

The Napoleonic Redoubt Fortress is located on Eastbourne seafront and was built to defend the south coast from Napoleon’s forces. Visitors can come and discover over 200 years of history with hands on children’s activities, daily cannon firing and paintballing! In addition refreshments are available from the vintage themed café; The Outpost.

To get to these attractions and to take an enjoyable ride down the seafront, visitors can take the Dotto Train, stopping at destinations from Harbour Reach to Holywell.

To add to the exciting list of attractions, Eastbourne offers Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway, a railway adventure where visitors can travel for nearly a mile on the 1/8^th scale miniature trains. There is also a nature walk around the lake, adventure playground, model railways, café and gift shop.

For entertainment throughout the summer holidays, the Bandstand hosts Kids Party Nights every Tuesday evening from 23 July – 27 August. The shows are a real treat for the summer with fun songs from Mamma Mia, Glee and many more. Plus there is FREE face painting.

There are some great things to do in Eastbourne that won’t cost a penny, including rock pooling in the marine conservation area at Falling Sands followed by a picnic in the hidden Cliffside Italian Gardens; or cycling on the Downs, Cuckoo trail or Eastern seafront. Visitors could also try picking their own fruit from Sharnfold farm where there is FREE entry to see animals, a walking trail and playground.

Eastbourne is set to host Eastbourne Extreme and Airbourne.

Eastbourne’s popular extreme sports festival returns to the eastern seafront on 13 and 14 July with a great line up combining an exciting mix of air, land and water based outdoor pursuits.

Airbourne, Eastbourne’s International Airshow takes over the seafront from 15 – 18 August. The four day FREE seafront airshow will see daily displays from the Red Arrows along with the Belgian Air Component F-16, The Typhoon, Chinook, Tucano and many more!

Just outside of Eastbourne, families can visit the multi award winning Drusillas Park Zoo, which claimed the Tourism South East Visitor Attraction of the Year award in 2010/11. Home to hundreds of fascinating creatures, this family run park promises plenty of animal magic for young and old. The Thomas & Friends™ train offers rides all year round and there’s fun whatever the weather in the indoor Amazon Adventure soft play area.

Also on Eastbourne’s doorstep is Pevensey Castle. Visitors can explore the castle and museum after just a 5 minute car or train ride from Eastbourne. Alternatively visitors can explore science on a grand scale at the Observatory Science Centre in Herstmonceux.

Eastbourne has over 7500 bed spaces available in hotels and guesthouses, with a large portion of them located on the seafront. There are many family friendly hotels including the Guest House East, a modern, stylish, highly rated guesthouse located just a pebble’s throw from the beach. Family rooms are available sleeping up to 5, which come with a kitchen so families can prepare food if required. Breakfast is also available in the hotel.

For more information go to www.visiteastbourne.com

Let’s celebrate National Picnic Week 17-23 June!

There is one thing us Brits have always done well and that is the Great British Picnic!

This week is National Picnic week and what a perfect opportunity to embrace the beautiful outdoor sites of Eastbourne. Eastbourne has an ever growing list of perfect picnic spots offering different atmospheres; from fun at the beach to the tranquil setting of a park, from the wide open South Downs National Park to the secret spot at Italian Gardens, Eastbourne has something to suit everyone.

The main factor to a Great British picnic is the location so let’s go through ideas of where to go for your picnic in Eastbourne:

South Downs National Park                                                           

The South Downs National Park covers an area of 1600 km² and offers breathtaking landscapes and views. Known as one of Britain’s Breathing Spaces, the park has green rolling pastures, open spaces, ancient woodlands and river valleys. There is so much to do on the Downs like walking, cycling, horse riding, visiting heritage sites and of course having a picnic!                                                                

Visitors can picnic at Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters Country Park, Cuckmere valley, the Long Man of Wilmington and Downland villages.

Down the Beach                                                                    

Eastbourne boasts three miles of clean unspoilt beaches with safe bathing zones, showers, toilets, refreshments and deckchairs available. The sunny Eastbourne seaside is the perfect summertime picnic spot where visitors can go for a paddle and get an ice-cream after when the picnic foods run out!                                                        

The seafront stretches from East to West, the West offering a more happening and safe environment. You could also hire a beach hut! Go to the seafront office by the Bandstand to find out more.

Princes Park                                                                                               

The green flag quality awarded family park on the eastern seafront has a large lake, rose and aromatic herb gardens, plenty of open parkland plus two play areas, new modern splash pad, putting, bowling greens and Pistachio in the Park café. With all this for the family to do, it is a great place to take the basket and blanket for a picnic! With all these facilities, visitors could spend all day there!

Gildredge Park and Manor Gardens                                             

Gildredge Park is a family park with grass areas, a new skate park and children’s playground, plus quiet areas of pleasant herbaceous borders, rockeries and sensory plants. The park is located not far from the town centre so those travelling on the train/bus can get to it easily. The park has a secluded feel to it whilst offering large open spaces for Frisbee, football etc.

Hampden Park                                                                          

Hampden is a popular park with a play area, large lake with an abundance of wildlife, shady lawns, an extensive area of woodland and a tea chalet. Both the shady and open spaces are great locations to celebrate National Picnic Week!

Italian Gardens and The Helen Garden                                           

The Helen Garden is a secluded garden on the western end of the seafront with a play area, bowls, putting, petanque and a café to enjoy the glorious sea views. The area is quiet and peaceful offering a tranquil environment. Italian Gardens is hidden just behind The Helen Garden at Holywell. It is a secret hideaway nestling in the corner of the Cliffside. If it is peace you are after, this destination is the one!

AEGON International Tennis                                                            

As National Picnic Week has fallen on the same week as the tennis, why not take your picnic there? Or grab some of the fantastic food sold on site while watching some of the exciting games throughout the week! Take a look here for ticket availability and book today! http://www.lta.org.uk/fans-major-events/LTA-summer-grass-court-events/AEGON-International/

Now you know where to go for your picnic make sure you kit up your basket with enough food and drink for all, suncream and a brolly. Also remember to kindly take your rubbish with you.

Classic picnic food consists of sandwiches, sausage rolls and strawberries but if you fancy something different, how about getting some fish and chips from one of Eastbourne’s finest chippies on the way!

For more information on any of these sites go to www.visiteastbourne.com

Happy Picnic Week! J