20 April 2010
The UK’s sunniest place is emerging as a popular destination for a staycation this week as those unable to fly make last minute bookings for a break at the south coast resort of Eastbourne.
Boasting England’s only 5-star coastal hotel, Eastbourne is the number one choice for high flyers looking for an alternative break as they’re grounded by the volcanic ash cloud restricting the UK airspace.
With the Grand Hotel reporting last minute bookings on their Twitter page on Friday as news of the flight ban broke, elsewhere in Eastbourne accommodation owners have had overseas visitors extending their stay until they can fly home.
Eastbourne Holiday Cottages who operate seven self-catering properties in the town have had a Zambian family extend their week-long stay until the flight restrictions are lifted.
An Eastbourne Borough Council spokesperson said “Eastbourne is keen to capitalise on the current situation with flights to and from UK airspace being grounded and promote the resort as an alternative destination for a short break over the next few weeks. With an inevitable backlog from the volcanic ash cloud causing delays, Eastbourne wants to be the number one alternative and hotels, guesthouses and self-catering properties are using last minute special offers to persuade holidaymakers to opt for the south east coast.”
Other fantastic deals for visitors stranded in the UK or UK holidaymakers wanting to avoid flight hassles, include the Langtons Guest House on Eastbourne seafront offering 3 nights for the price of 2 until the end of April and 4 nights for the price of 3 at the Devonia.
Eastbourne’s celebrity owned hotel, The Big Sleep, is also hoping that its special online offer of 5 nights for the price of 3 for this summer will encourage some last minute bookings from staycation-converted travellers before it runs out on 30 April.
And it’s not just accommodation providers who are looking to entice visitors affected by the volcanic ash cloud. Sussex Voyages who operate powerboat adventure trips out of Sovereign Harbour Marina are offering a special volcanic offer of 15% off sailings until 30 April, promising an exhilarating experience for visitors looking for something different.
Mr Hau Restaurants are offering a range of deals at its three restaurants between now and the end of the month, ideal for families eating out while staying in Eastbourne. To view the offers go to the VisitEastbourne website.
VisitEastbourne will also be helping stranded passengers to find alternative accommodation while in the UK by posting availability updates and new offers through its Twitter page.
To view the offers or find out more about places to stay and visit in Eastbourne visit the Visit Eastbourne website.
