Local History and Heritage

Eastbourne has a long history stretching back to Celtic settlements in 500BC. However it was in the 19th century, with the help of local landowners William Cavendish and John Gilbert, that the town was really established.

In this section...

Civic History and the Town Hall

• Find out how Eastbourne became a Borough. 

• Learn how the Town Hall was built and which flags fly throughout the year.

• See Eastbourne Borough Council's Coat of Arms and a list of Honorary Aldermen and Freemen.

Family History

The pages in this section will help to get you started and point you to sources of local information, links and general resources.

History of Eastbourne

Find out about the known history of Eastbourne to date. Find links to other useful websites.