Eastbourne Bandstand is a semicircular bandstand located on the seafront Grand Parade. A landmark here for more than 80 years, this old-fashioned venue is still as popular as ever, hosting nightly concerts throughout the summer season. Admire its blue-domed roof and watch fireworks displays and performances from tribute acts and traditional brass bands.
The bandstand was built in 1935 as part of a seafront improvement plan in Eastbourne. The first concerts were held here that same summer and attracted audiences totaling more than 10,000. Today, the bandstand continues to function as an entertainment venue. Reserve a spot in the 1,600-seat main arena or middle and upper balconies.
Walk along the seafront and look for the bandstand’s striking blue-colored dome. If it looks familiar, it may because you’ve seen it before, either on television or in a film. The structure has been used in television series including Foyle’s War and Little Britain, as well as in the British film Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging.
Venture to the back of the dome and read a commemorative plaque paying tribute to John Wesley Woodward, a former Eastbourne cellist. Woodward was one of the musicians playing on board the Titanic when the liner met its tragic fate in April 1912.
Purchase tickets to attend a performance here. The concerts, which are held throughout the summer season, include rock and pop tribute acts, as well as kids’ shows, singers and classical musicians. Come on Wednesdays to see the 1812 Firework Concert. Watch the skies flash as a traditional band enthusiastically performs Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture. On Sunday afternoons, various bands and ensembles perform here.
The Eastbourne Bandstand is located on the seafront, about 0.6 mile (1 kilometre) from Eastbourne Railway Station. Book tickets online or buy them from the Seafront Office near the bandstand. The summer season runs between April and September. Seasonal concerts are occasionally held here around Christmas and New Year’s. Metered on-street parking is available nearby. An on-site bar serves food and drink for concertgoers.
