The Grand Hotel Eastbourne is 150 years old, a century and a half of gilded ceilings, whispered secrets, and champagne-soaked celebrations. Steeped in history, it’s seen two world wars and seven monarchs. Now it’s your chance to be part of it. If you’ve stayed there, visited there, or just been a passing admirer with a camera, they have their sights set on you!

The hotel is curating a huge exhibition, and part of that is going to be a living ‘guest book’. As The Grand Hotel prepares to unveil its anniversary exhibition, the hotel is inviting local residents and guests to share their treasured memories. Whether they honeymooned under its chandeliers or danced in its drawing rooms, their story belongs here. 

Let’s go back in time  

A bit of background first; 1875 saw the opening of Eastbourne’s very best hotel. The brainchild of William Earp, it was built to be the ultimate holiday destination for the upper classes. A century and a half later, its reputation as a high-end luxury establishment still stands. 

But it’s not just a hotel. Far from it, during the second world war, its beachfront location made it the perfect military headquarters. The building played an integral strategic role, preventing opposing forces from holding ground in the vulnerable Southeast of England. 

Since then, it’s reverted back to its original luxury hotel status. Proving to be the perfect stay for those seeking the hustle and bustle of Eastbourne’s town centre, or adventure in the picturesque South Downs – Seven Sisters anyone?

How you can be part of history  

The Grand Hotel Eastbourne wants to hear from you. They’re seeking stories from your favourite visits. Have a special memory or photo? Send it in – submitted stories will be displayed in the hotel and its online platforms.  

From weddings to weekend getaways, they’re excited to see all and every bit of memorabilia. Help bring the hotel’s history to life and contribute to this important collection. 

But hurry – they’d like your memories by the end of July!

To send in a story or photo click here. 

Not just a place to sleep  

The hotel is a destination and experience in itself. The spacious venue hosts weddings and parties as well as having wonderful restaurants, bars, gorgeous pools, spa treatments, concerts and dining. It’s also famous for its elegant afternoon teas, often with a live pianist or string quartet. Check out their events calendar. 

Often referred to as ‘The White Palace,’ the hotel has a long and distinguished musical heritage. From 1924 to 1939, its Great Hall was the live broadcast home of the BBC’s Grand Hotel orchestra series.

It was also here in 1905, during a multi-week stay in the suite now known as the Debussy Suite (formerly Room 200), that Claude Debussy finalized his orchestral masterwork La mer, inspired by the English Channel views.

What’s coming next? 

To commemorate 150 years of timeless elegance, the team at the Grand Hotel Eastbourne have big plans. 

Tuesday 11 March to Sunday 30 November  

150th Anniversary afternoon tea 

Enjoy an exquisite pastry menu inspired by the hotel’s history – from notable moments to traditions which have shaped the hotel. Each delicacy offers a journey through time with the backdrop to match  

Friday 21 November to Monday 24 November  

A festival celebrating 150 years of music, monarchs and the grand hotel.  

Set against a backcloth from Queen Victoria to King Charles III, top-class performers will evoke stars such as Enrico Caruso, Dame Nellie Melba, John McCormack, Anna Pavlova, Paul Robeson, George Robey, Charlie Chaplin, and many others. Not forgetting great composers such as Sir Edward Elgar. A true look back on the eclectic mix who visited the hotel. With a star-inspired menu also promised, it’s sure to be a stay to remember. 

There’s so much more though…

The events at The Grand Hotel Eastbourne aren’t limited to their 150-year anniversary, far from it. From a ‘Debussy by Candlelight’ Christmas concert, to a Gatsby Soirée New Years Eve party, the hotel never misses an occasion. For those seeking something a bit different there is a murder mystery dinner on 26 September, and a night of Queen on 19 of July.  

Click here to see the full list of events

Emma Cruickshank

Emma is a literature, TV, and film enthusiast. When she’s not writing, she can normally be found out in the Sussex countryside, walking her dog Herbie, or in a restaurant drinking an overpriced cocktail and dreaming up ideas for her next literary endeavour.

The post The Grand Hotel Eastbourne is 150 – be part of its history appeared first on Silver Magazine.