Discover Bexhill-on-Sea: A Seaside Town with Rich History and Modern Appeal

Bexhill is a town within the Rother district on the South Coast of England set between St Leonards on Sea and Eastbourne. Over recent years Bexhill’s popularity has increased with this popular town offering a great range activities and eateries.

History of Bexhill on Sea

Discover Bexhill’s Rich History: From Saxon Origins to the First British Motor Races

Bexhill was established in the eighth century when King Offa of Mercia built a small community on its current site. But much of it was destroyed by the Norman invasion of 1066. In the late 1800s, the small rural village of Bexhill was transformed into an exclusive seaside resort. Builder John Webb constructed the first sea wall and laid out the De La Warr Parade, named after Earl De La Warr.

It was the eighth Earl De La Warr who secured the town’s place in history by hosting Britain’s first automobile races here on the 19th May 1902.

Throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, the town was extremely popular, and it’s still filled with architecture from this period.

Bexhill once had a reputation for being popular with older people who wanted to retire to a home by the sea.  But today the town attracts many younger people and families, lured by lower property prices and the quality of life. This has created a more youthful vibe.

Bexhill Amenities: Parks, Shopping, and Dining for All Ages

Egerton Park is an extremely well maintained park and has retained the Green Flag Award for parks for nine successive years. It offers something for everyone,  including tennis, football, indoor and outdoor bowls, a children’s play park and a café.

Bexhill has a variety of shops where you can pick up local produce and everyday essentials in addition to other unique shops such as antique and gift stores. You can also head to Glyne Gap Retail Park, where you will find a Tesco, M&S, B&Q and other useful outlets.

In recent years, Bexhill has become a popular place to eat out, with a huge selection of restaurants including steakhouses selling the finest steak and brasseries offering fresh local produce. There are also many other options including Turkish, Mexican and Italian food and, of course, since Bexhill is by the sea, the ever-popular fish and chips.

 

Bexhill on Sea Local Amenities
Bexhill on Sea Free Time

Enjoy Bexhill: Top Attractions, Leisure Activities, and Cultural Experiences

One of Bexhill’s most iconic attractions is the De La Warr Pavilion, which offers exhibitions by contemporary artists, live music, comedy gigs, films, talks, tours and regular events for families. In the summer months, you’ll find free outdoor music, with bars open and food available, on the seaside terrace.

Bexhill Museum is a popular choice, with its strong emphasis on promoting learning about the history and natural environment of the local area.

The town’s leisure centre offers a gym and fitness suite and a soft-play area for  little ones as well as a swimming pool.

Bexhill Travel Links: Quick Connections to London, Brighton, and Surrounding Towns

Bexhill is indeed well connected, with travel links to London and other towns including Brighton, which you can reach in approximately an hour. Hastings is 10 minutes away, while Eastbourne is reachable within 25 minutes.

If travelling via road, Bexhill is well connected with the A27, meaning you can reach Brighton in around 45 minutes and the A21 connecting to London’s M25.

Bexhill on Sea Transport

 Whats nearby

Bexhill FAQs

What is Bexhill known for?

Bexhill is known for its beautiful seaside location, historic charm, and cultural attractions. The town is home to the iconic De La Warr Pavilion, which hosts art exhibitions, live performances, and family events. Bexhill also has a fascinating history, having hosted Britain’s first automobile races in 1902.

Is Bexhill a good place to live?

Yes, Bexhill on Sea is an increasingly popular place to live, especially for families and young professionals. It offers a quieter alternative to nearby cities like Hastings and Brighton, with excellent local amenities, affordable property prices, and good schools. The town also boasts parks, beaches, and a range of restaurants, making it a desirable coastal community.

What are the transport links like in Bexhill?

Bexhill is well connected by road and rail. There are regular train services to London, which takes about 90 minutes, and to Brighton, which is around an hour away. The nearby A27 and A21 roads make it easy to travel to Hastings, Eastbourne, and further afield.

What attractions are there to see in Bexhill?

Bexhill offers plenty of attractions for visitors and residents alike. The De La Warr Pavilion is a must-visit for its art exhibitions and events. Egerton Park is perfect for outdoor activities like tennis and bowls. You can also explore Bexhill Museum to learn about the town’s local history or relax on Bexhill’s beaches.

Are there good schools in Bexhill?

Yes, Bexhill has a selection of well-regarded schools, including primary, secondary, and special education institutions. Families are often drawn to the town because of its educational offerings and the safe, family-friendly environment.

What kind of restaurants can I find in Bexhill?

Bexhill is home to a variety of dining options, from traditional British fish and chips to international cuisines like Italian, Turkish, and Mexican. You’ll also find several steakhouses and restaurants offering locally sourced produce. The town’s food scene has been expanding in recent years, appealing to a wide range of tastes.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Bexhill?

Bexhill is great for outdoor activities, offering everything from seaside walks to sports in Egerton Park. The town has tennis courts, a children’s play area, and a bowling green. The nearby coastline is ideal for beachcombing, and in the warmer months, you can enjoy live music and events at the De La Warr Pavilion’s outdoor terrace.

How has Bexhill changed in recent years?

Bexhill has seen significant growth in popularity, attracting younger families and professionals alongside its older residents. The town’s evolving food scene, cultural offerings, and affordable housing market have all contributed to its modern appeal while retaining its historic charm.

What is the housing market like in Bexhill?

Bexhill offers a range of housing options, from period properties to modern developments. House prices in Bexhill tend to be more affordable than in neighbouring coastal towns, making it an attractive option for both buyers and renters. The property market is competitive due to increasing demand, particularly from those looking to move away from larger cities.

How far is Bexhill from London?

Bexhill is approximately 90 minutes away from London by train. By car, the journey is about two hours, depending on traffic, via the A21.

A selection of our most recent properties for sale in Bexhill

  • For Sale

    De La Warr Parade, Bexhill, TN40 1LS

    For Sale
    1 Bedroom
    1 Bathroom
    1 Reception
    £126,000
    Delighted to bring to the market this beautifully presented one-bedroom ground floor retirement apartment, specifically designed for residents aged 50 and over, occupying an enviable position within this prestigious seafront development.The property has been well maintained and benefits from double ...
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  • For Sale

    Milward Road, Hastings, TN34 3RS

    For Sale
    1 Bedroom
    1 Bathroom
    1 Reception
    £149,995
    A well-presented one-bedroom ground floor flat, conveniently positioned on Milward Road, within easy reach of Hastings town centre and the wide range of shops, cafés, restaurants and local amenities on offer. The property provides well-proportioned accommodation and would make an ideal first-time p...
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  • For Sale

    Collington Lane East, Bexhill, TN39 3RH

    For Sale
    2 Bedrooms
    1 Bathroom
    1 Reception
    £185,000
    A spacious two-bedroom second-floor apartment with two balconies, allocated parking and attractive communal gardens, situated in the popular West Bexhill area.Set within a well-maintained Share of Freehold development, this spacious apartment offers generous accommodation throughout and is ideally s...
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A selection of our most recent properties to let in Bexhill

  • To Let

    London Road, Bexhill, TN39 3LE

    To Let
    1 Bedroom
    1 Bathroom
    1 Reception
    £850 pcm
    This one bedroom second floor flat is perfectly located on London Road in Bexhill and conveniently situated within walking distance to the town centre, railway station and other local shops and amenities. The property comprises a spacious living room, modern fitted kitchen with integrated oven and h...
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  • To Let

    Peartree Lane, Bexhill, TN39 4NS

    To Let
    4 Bedrooms
    2 Bathrooms
    2 Receptions
    £2,000 pcm
    A fantastic opportunity to rent this spacious and beautifully presented detached chalet bungalow, situated in the popular Little Common area. The property has been extended and improved to provide a versatile family home, offering four bedrooms, generous living accommodation and a large west-facing ...
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  • Let Agreed

    Broad Oak Lane, Bexhill, TN39 4HJ

    Let Agreed
    5 Bedrooms
    4 Bathrooms
    1 Reception
    £2,000 pcm
    A beautifully presented and spacious five-bedroom detached chalet-style house, situated in the highly sought-after Broad Oak Park area of Bexhill.The property offers versatile and generously proportioned accommodation throughout, including a stunning kitchen/breakfast room with central island, separ...
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