SPRING has arrived in Eastbourne, and with it comes a real sense of energy and possibility in our town centre.
As we head into what promises to be a busy and exciting few months, I wanted to take a moment to share what’s been happening, what’s coming up, and – perhaps most importantly – why your support of local businesses matters more than ever right now.
First, we’re thrilled to announce that a brand-new Antiques and Collectables Market is coming to Eastbourne this spring.
Launching on 18th and 19th April 2026, ‘Antiques by the Seaside’ will take place on the third weekend of every month through to September, right in the heart of our newly pedestrianised Victoria Place precinct, just moments from the seafront.
Delivered by Your Eastbourne BID in partnership with Barley Sugar, Eastbourne Borough Market and Edeal, the market will bring a carefully curated mix of vintage jewellery, decorative homeware, retro curiosities and timeless collectables to the town. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy a weekend browse, it’s the perfect excuse to spend a relaxed spring morning exploring what Eastbourne has to offer. Trade pitch applications are open now — if you’re a trader interested in taking part, please do get in touch by emailing luke@youreastbournebid.com.
Antiques by the Seaside builds beautifully on the success of our popular Farmers Market, which continues every first Saturday of the month right through until November. I’m incredibly proud to say that our Farmers Market is now the largest in East Sussex, outside of the Towner – a real testament to the quality of our traders and the loyalty of Eastbourne’s residents and visitors who turn out month after month. If you haven’t been along yet, or haven’t visited recently, I’d warmly encourage you to come and experience it for yourself.
Now, I’d like to address something that I know is on many people’s minds – the ongoing works in Terminus Road, running from Bankers Corner down to Halifax Bank. I completely understand that this kind of disruption is frustrating, for businesses and shoppers alike. Change is rarely comfortable, and when it affects the routes we walk every day, it can feel very present indeed.
But this is precisely the moment when shopping local matters most. The businesses along and around Terminus Road are still open, still welcoming customers, and still very much in need of your footfall. Every purchase you make locally – whether it’s a coffee, a birthday gift, a bunch of flowers, or your weekly shop – makes a direct and meaningful difference to the people who run those businesses and the staff they employ. These are your neighbours. These are the people who make Eastbourne the vibrant, distinctive town it is.
I never tire of shining a light on the brilliant independent traders who make this town so special, so I want to take a moment to mention two that are well worth seeking out – and that perfectly embody the spirit of what shopping local is all about.
If you haven’t discovered Deliciously Gorgeous yet, please do put it on your list. This wonderful café is centrally located in the heart of town, and it really is the full package. They roast their coffee beans right there in the café, which guarantees an exceptional cup every single time.
Alongside the coffee, you’ll find freshly baked scones, beautiful cakes and an extensive all-day menu. They also specialise in afternoon teas and events – think baby showers, celebrations and special occasions done properly. Find out more at deliciouslygorgeous.co.uk.
I’d also encourage you to visit Flowers of Eastbourne, based at the Enterprise Centre right next to Eastbourne Railway Station. Whether you need a stunning birthday bouquet, wedding flowers, a gift for a new arrival, or simply want to brighten someone’s day, their talented florists create beautiful handcrafted arrangements using fresh, high-quality blooms. They’re open seven days a week and offer a reliable local delivery service covering Eastbourne and the surrounding area, including Alfriston, Polegate, Seaford, Hailsham, Pevensey and Westham. Exactly the kind of independent business that deserves your support.
So this spring, I hope you’ll join us in celebrating everything that makes our town centre great. Please do continue to love local and shop local. Your town centre needs you — and we are genuinely grateful for every single one of you who shows up.
Luke Johnson
Operations Manager, Your Eastbourne BID
