Rejuvenating resolutions for New Year

Eastbourne is offering an action-packed start to the New Year with a wealth of activities on its doorstep making it easy to kick start those new year resolutions and lose those extra Christmas pounds, from a peaceful walk through the countryside to a personalised fitness break.

Set in a spectacular location and protected by the South Downs, Eastbourne with its unique microclimate offering year-round sunshine, boasts a superb seafront, lively town centre and peaceful country villages. Take a step back in time to explore the town’s nearby castles or put on a pair of skates and make the most of Eastbourne’s beautiful promenade this winter.

Eastbourne Borough Council Spokesperson for Tourism, Cllr Steve Wallis said “Eastbourne is a wonderful place to start the New Year and there’s nowhere better to wrap up warm and spend a day making the most of the crisp English winter weather. Stroll along the beach or paraglide off the Downs, the town and its surrounding areas offer a vast choice of outdoor activity ideas, making it the ideal place to start those New Year fitness regimes.”

After spending time eating, drinking, and watching the TV films indoors over Christmas, January brings a welcome relief with Eastbourne offering plenty of opportunities to make the most of being outside.

Step back to 1066 and explore Pevensey Castle just 8 miles from Eastbourne, or take a trip to Herstmonceux Castle and check out its magnificent moat and Science Observatory. Set in stunning parkland and charming Elizabethan gardens, it’s well worth a visit on a fresh winter’s day.

The more adventurous should head for Friston Forest where they can hire mountain bikes and cycle through the woods and along the meandering Cuckmere River, taking breaks to appreciate the picturesque countryside.

To really get into the winter spirit take on traditional winter sports at Knockhatch Ski Centre, Hailsham, less than 10 miles outside Eastbourne. Have a go at skiing and snowboarding on the dry ski slopes, with a nursery slope for beginners.

Take time out and enjoy Eastbourne’s promenade. Walk, cycle or skate along the eight miles of glorious coastline, beginning at the largest marina in the country, Sovereign Harbour, and go all the way to the stunning white cliffs of Falling Sands, sparing time for a hot drink at one of the many eateries along the way.

Guest House East, contemporary Eastbourne accommodation offers modern family rooms as well as fantastic fitness breaks. The owners operate the Running Inn Ltd, offering running breaks with one-to-one personal training and a beginners’ course, making it the ideal compromise for the New Year. Enjoy a vigorous workout over the South Downs and then wind down in the spacious, airy rooms.

For those after a slightly less energetic break, head to the Grand Hotel for a luxurious stay at Eastbourne’s elite five star seafront hotel for a Winter Warmer package. Cosy up by the roaring fire in the Great Hall with Belgian butter waffles and maple syrup, enjoy a pampering treatment in the renowned health club or take a dip in the heated indoor pool.

The Congress Theatre plays stage for one afternoon only to London Philharmonic Orchestra on 13 January providing a brilliant opportunity to indulge and appreciate the arts that Eastbourne has to offer, with New Sussex Opera bringing an Italian-themed concert to the Winter Garden on 20 January.

For more information on what to do and more winter accommodation offers in and around Eastbourne log on to Visiteastbourne.com.