Why Eastbourne is the Perfect Place to Learn English

What do you think of when you imagine the UK? Buckingham Palace? Red telephone boxes? Sausage rolls?

For most, it’s London’s famous skyline. And it’s no surprise – in 2021, nearly a third of the UK’s international students were based in the capital.

London is a cultural giant with an infinite number of things to see and do, but many visitors miss out on the UK’s lesser-known (and more affordable) gems. So, it’s time to explore beyond the tourist trail.

Our first stop? Eastbourne, a quiet and breezy coastal escape in the South. Frequented over the years by iconic writers, composers, actors, and even royalty, this sunny seaside resort is famous for its picturesque seafront and majestic Beachy Head cliffs – the highest sea chalk cliffs in Britain. This is how you make studying English feel like a vacation.

Still not convinced? Here are 7 reasons why Eastbourne is the perfect place to study English!

1) It’s Peaceful – but not Isolated

Sometimes, all you need is a restful retreat to focus on your studies and return feeling renewed and refreshed. In Eastbourne, you’ll find plenty of quiet, whether in nature, a cosy café, or sunbathing by the sea.

Don’t confuse peaceful with boring, though. There’s plenty to do in Eastbourne (those cliffs!), and the town is well-connected to several vibrant cities: Brighton and Hastings are under an hour away, and London just 1.5 hours. It’s the best of both worlds.

Choosing a town means more energy on what you actually came to do: learn English. Plus, you can’t beat some peace and quiet.

2) It’s Safer than Many Cities

Our students’ safety is always our top priority, but many find that studying outside of major cities gives them extra peace of mind. If you’re a first-time traveller or nervous parents of a younger learner, Eastbourne offers a bit more reassurance.

3) It’s Small – but Packed Full of Things to Do

Eastbourne has around 100,000 residents – compared to almost 9 million in London. If you find city life overwhelming, or you’d rather rely less on public transport, Eastbourne might be the perfect fit for your English course.

Studying in a town can also mean more opportunity for practice outside of the classroom, thanks to the slower pace of life and stronger sense of community.

Still, there’s no shortage of activities if you get bored: hike the highest white chalk cliff in Britain, swim in the Eastbourne’s iconic emerald sea, see award-winning art at The Towner, catch a show at the bandstand, and much more.

4) It’s the Sunniest Place in the UK

The UK doesn’t have the greatest reputation when it comes to weather – but Eastbourne’s a rare exception. The latest Met Office data shows that Eastbourne is graced by 1,892 hours of sunshine per year, which is about 500 more than the national average – a small miracle in the Land of Drizzle!

5) It’s off the Beaten Track

Most international tourists stick to the famous spots – London, maybe Cambridge or Oxford, then, if they have the time, a few northern cities like Manchester and York.

There’s a reason these places are popular, but smaller destinations like Eastbourne offer a unique charm often missed by tourists.

You can still explore all the iconic sights and come home to a smaller, lesser-known town. Plus, you’ll earn some fun bragging rights: there’s more to the UK than its major cities, and you’ve experienced it fully.

6) It’s More Affordable

Fewer tourists mean more savings. Forget inflated prices – Eastbourne’s lower demand means you can stretch your travel budget further.

General living costs are cheaper, and our homestay and accommodation options in Eastbourne are less than in larger cities where cost of living is considerably higher (we’re looking at you, London).

If you’re on a budget, want to save for travel, or study longer, Eastbourne might be the ideal place to learn English.

7) You can Learn English in a Historic Mansion House

If you choose to learn English with Twin, you’ll learn, study, and socialise in our beautiful mansion house and 25 acres of woodland and formal gardens: Compton Place. It even has links to royalty: King George III was a frequent visitor in 1780, and Queen Elizbeth II stayed in Compton Place with her sister in 1946.

Look closely, and you might find real traces of the past – like the signature of a German princess etched onto one of the classroom windows!

Curious to learn more? Check out our blog on everything you need to know about Eastbourne here.

Location Matters – So Pick the Right One for You

We love Eastbourne, but it might not be for everyone. Maybe you’d thrive in London’s chaos, or you’re ready to skip the UK and embark on an Irish adventure in Dublin. Wherever you go, make it work for you.

At Twin, you can choose from three unique locations – London, Eastbourne, or Dublin – and how you’d like to learn.

Our courses range from well-rounded general programmes to super-specialised electives. Whether your goal is making new friends, acing IELTS, or improving your business English, we provide truly personalised learning and support.

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