Eastbourne Tourism Strategy 2026–2036

24th April 2026

Acorn Tourism Consulting is supporting the development of a new Tourism Strategy for Eastbourne, working in partnership with the Eastbourne Neighbourhood Board.

The project will set out a clear, evidence-based direction for the town’s visitor economy over the next decade. It is designed as a destination management plan rather than a marketing strategy, with a focus on practical actions, investment priorities and measurable outcomes.

A strategy focused on place

Eastbourne has a strong position as a coastal destination, with established strengths in leisure, culture and entertainment. This work builds on those foundations, helping to define a clear and distinctive direction for the future.

The strategy explores how tourism can support economic growth, improve quality of life, and strengthen year-round appeal, while continuing to benefit local businesses and communities.

The approach places emphasis on value and experience quality, rather than simply increasing visitor numbers.

An evidence based and collaborative approach

The work combines research, data analysis and stakeholder engagement to ensure the strategy is both credible and deliverable.

This includes a review of tourism assets across the borough, analysis of market trends and visitor demand, and engagement with partners across the visitor economy, cultural sector and local business community.

Through this process, the strategy is shaped by local insight and practical experience, building a shared direction that can be delivered over time.

From insight to action

The strategy will develop a set of “Experience Eastbourne” pillars to define the town’s core offer and guide future development.

It will also include a phased action plan, covering short, medium and long term priorities, alongside a clear framework to support delivery, governance and performance monitoring.

Together, these elements provide a practical roadmap to guide investment and coordinated action across the borough.

Looking ahead

The strategy will support Eastbourne’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading coastal destination for leisure, culture and entertainment, while ensuring tourism continues to deliver long term benefits for residents, businesses and visitors.

For Acorn Tourism, this project reflects a broader approach to destination development, supporting places to define what they want to be known for and translate that into clear, deliverable strategies.