Apparently Eastbourne has been touting itself as the New Brighton for yonks but maybe the hype is finally morphing into reality.

It remains a curious blend of old school chintz (certainly east of the pier), historical glamour and aspirational charm – the property development, Gresham House, next to us here at The Guesthouse East on Hartington Place sums it up rather well. Regency splendour with the beautiful Grade II-listed villas converted into urban chic and swanky apartments. The ‘Sold’ boards outside confidently assert that the London-esque prices haven’t deterred all despite the chill economic conditions.

There is a recognition that the town should embrace sentimentality (with 75th birthday celebrations for the Eastbourne bandstand this year) whilst welcoming ‘The Dark Monarch – Magic and Modernity in British Art’ at the impressive (and new) Towner Gallery, which includes work by Damian Hirst.

Even the national press seem to have finally recognised the momentum and tackled the A27, with recent pieces in the weekend travel supp of The Times and Culture 24.

So I suggest you pencil in a date and brace yourself for more than simply Beachy Head. You might just be very pleasantly surpised.

Double suites at the boutique hotel The Guesthouse East start from only £70 per night, self-catering. Bed and breakfast also available. Check availability or ring 01323 722774.

Eastbourne‘s been in the news (again) this week. It’s a great place to live, The Guardian this weekend described some of the highlights: ‘Magnificent municipal borders. Oh, and a pier out of your dreams…Lots of Festival of Britain-era caffs (loving the Lilac Fish Restaurant). And what a bandstand! Right out on the prom with a sea-blue terracotta tiled roof. The Towner Art Gallery opened recently in a new, sharp-suited building jam-packed with a splendid collection. The town already has its own Cultural Quarter and attendant magazine, thanks very much, like any self-respecting regenerating seaside, and, indeed, a smattering of downshifted creative types.’

So if you fancy some tea and cake, chips, the sound of the brass band, followed by some ‘culture’ and perhaps a drink with some unmaterialistic arty types…  you know where to come!