There is something undeniably special about a railway journey that hugs the shoreline. The East Coastway line, operated by Southern, is one of the jewels in the crown of British rail travel. Stretching from the vibrant city of Brighton through the rolling South Downs and along the glittering Sussex coast to Hastings, this route offers a perfect slice of England.
Whether you are a local looking to explore your backyard or a visitor keen to see the white cliffs and historic towns of East Sussex, this line connects a fascinating string of destinations. It is a journey defined by contrast: bustling cities give way to tranquil river valleys, and gentle green hills suddenly open up to vast, sweeping sea views.
What makes this route special
The East Coastway is more than just a commuter line; it is a gateway to the unique landscape of 1066 Country and the South Downs National Park. What makes it truly unique is the variety of scenery packed into a relatively short distance.
One moment you are navigating the urban energy of Brighton; minutes later, you are gliding past the chalky slopes of the South Downs. As you venture further east, the train flits between historic market towns and Victorian seaside resorts, offering glimpses of castles, abbeys, and the English Channel. It is a route that invites you to hop on and off, turning a simple train ride into a full day of exploration.
Route highlights and key locations
The journey begins in Brighton. Famous for its Regency architecture, the iconic Royal Pavilion, and the lively Brighton Palace Pier, it is the perfect launchpad for your trip. As the train pulls out of the city, you will quickly pass through Moulsecoomb and Falmer. While these are key stops for the university and the Amex Stadium, the scenery truly opens up as you approach the countryside.
The first major scenic highlight is the historic town of Lewes. Nestled in the South Downs, the view of the town with its Norman castle perched high on the hill is spectacular from the train window. Just down the line is Glynde, a tiny, picturesque village famous for the world-renowned Glyndebourne Opera House.
As the train continues east, you pass through Berwick. Keep your eyes peeled on the hills to the south; from here, you can often spot the mysterious “Long Man of Wilmington” carved into the chalk. The line then reaches Polegate, a crucial junction.
From Polegate, many services head south into Eastbourne, stopping at Hampden Park on the way. Eastbourne is known as the “Sun Trap of the South,” boasting an elegant Victorian seafront and the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head nearby. It is a must-visit for those who love a classic British seaside atmosphere.
Continuing east toward Hastings (either directly from Polegate or looping back out of Eastbourne), the line dives into history at Pevensey & Westham. Here, the impressive ruins of Pevensey Castle dominate the skyline—the landing place of William the Conqueror in 1066. The route then skirts the coast with stops at Pevensey Bay and Normans Bay, offering quieter, shingle beach escapes.
The final stretch brings you to the architectural charm of Cooden Beach, Collington, and the seaside town of Bexhill. Bexhill is famous for the De La Warr Pavilion, a modernist masterpiece right on the promenade. Finally, passing through St Leonards, known for its bohemian vibe and antique shops, you arrive at the historic fishing port of Hastings.
Service frequency and tickets
The East Coastway line is well-served by Southern, making it a reliable option for spontaneous day trips.
- Brighton to Lewes: Very frequent, with trains running every 10–15 minutes during the day.
- Brighton to Eastbourne: Generally runs twice an hour.
- Brighton to Hastings: Usually two trains per hour. Note that some trains are direct, while others may require a quick change at Eastbourne or Polegate, so always check the display boards.
For tickets, the best value is often found by booking in advance via the Southern website or app. If you plan to hop off at multiple stations—perhaps for lunch in Lewes and dinner in Hastings—an “Anytime Day Return” or a “Discovery” ticket (if using connecting buses) can offer great flexibility. Groups of 3 to 9 people can often save significantly with GroupSave discounts.
When does the route run
This is a vital commuter and leisure artery, so it operates seven days a week, year-round. Services start early in the morning (ideal for commuters) and run until late at night, allowing you to enjoy a show at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill or a late dinner in Brighton before heading home.
Sundays usually have a slightly reduced frequency, so it is always wise to check the timetable before you travel on weekends or bank holidays.
Planning a day out on this route
Because there are so many stops, it helps to have a theme for your day out. Here are two ways to enjoy the line:
The Culture & Castles Trip
Start with a morning coffee in Lewes and explore the castle. Hop back on the train to Pevensey & Westham to wander the Roman fortress ruins. Finish the day in Hastings, exploring the Old Town and the funicular railways before grabbing fish and chips on the beach.
The Art & Architecture Tour
Depart Brighton and head straight for Eastbourne to visit the Towner Art Gallery. Afterward, take the train along the coast to Bexhill to see an exhibition at the De La Warr Pavilion. End your journey in St Leonards, browsing the independent galleries and vintage stores.
Top tips for the journey
- Check the stops: Stations like Normans Bay and Pevensey Bay are sometimes “request stops.” This means you must tell the conductor you want to get off, or signal the driver from the platform if you want to get on.
- The split: Be aware that at Haywards Heath or Brighton, trains sometimes split, with one half going to one destination and the other half elsewhere. However, on the East Coastway, the main confusion usually happens at Eastbourne where trains reverse. Listen to onboard announcements to ensure you are in the correct carriage.
- Window seat views: If you are travelling from Brighton towards Hastings, sit on the right-hand side of the train for the best sea views, particularly between Bexhill and Hastings.
Year-round appeal
While the Sussex coast is glorious in the summer, do not discount this route in the colder months. The East Coastway offers a warm, comfortable vantage point to watch winter storms roll in over the English Channel. Towns like Lewes are particularly magical in autumn and winter, offering cosy historic pubs with roaring fires—perfect for warming up after a brisk walk on the Downs. Whether you are seeking summer sun or winter atmosphere, the East Coastway line is your reliable connection to the best of Sussex.
