Are you searching for unusual places to stay near Eastbourne that offer a perfect blend of rugged coastal adventure and boutique comfort? Look no further than the historic Belle Tout Lighthouse. Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the South Downs, it is often called Britain’s most famous inhabited lighthouse for good reason. This iconic landmark provides an unforgettable independent gateway for active travellers in their fifties. Whether you want to conquer the famous Beachy Head walks or simply enjoy a 360 degree sunset.

What makes Belle Tout so remarkable is its history. It was built in 1832 to warn ships of the perilous headland, it served until 1902, when its light was often shrouded by sea mist and a new lighthouse was built below at Beachy Head. Since then, Belle Tout has led many lives — partly destroyed during World War II, rebuilt in the 1950s, and famously, in 1989, the entire Grade II-listed structure was moved in one piece, pulled 56 feet back from the cliff’s edge to save it from coastal erosion.

It’s also something of a star. The BBC once owned it, using it as a filming location, and you can spot Belle Tout in screen classics like The Life and Loves of a She-Devil and James Bond’s “The Living Daylights” 

Today, Belle Tout offers pure boutique comfort with just six beautifully themed rooms, recently refurbished, each designed to make the most of the panoramic views of the Downs and the Channel. We stayed in the Captain’s cabin which had a little fireplace and ensuite facilities. Because it is an authentic lighthouse, there are a few unique logistical details to keep in mind. To get to the best views, you will need to navigate steep, spiral lighthouse stairs.

The most spectacular room was however the former lamp room at the top which is now a 360-degree glass lounge. We sipped many a nice glass of wine watching the sun go down.

At five o’clock each evening we were invited for a convivial glass of wine but not charged for our drinks. Selling alcohol so close to the cliff is prohibited. The hosts were wonderfully welcome. The five other rooms were booked and I got the impression from chatting to various people that they were frequent returning guests. We nipped out for some pub grub at the Tiger Inn at East Dean as the lighthouse doesn’t serve meals and enjoyed a delicious pie.

The breakfasts were amazing – full English breakfast with pastries and fruit. In fact there was no need to eat anything all day and the generous hosts even gave us some food to take with us.

Belle Tout serves as the ultimate base-camp for walking holidays. The Seven Sisters Route: Hike Westwards towards Cuckmere Haven to witness the most spectacular, uninterrupted views of the chalk cliffs. Beach Head to Eastbourne: Walk eastwards towards the Victorian seafront of Eastbourne, passing the red and white striped Beachy Head Lighthouse below. If you are adventurous, find the trails leading down towards Birling Gap and the dramatic shoreline below the cliffs.

If you’ve ever dreamed of staying somewhere utterly unique, you don’t need to go abroad. Book a stay at Belle Tout

Top Tips

Because Belle Tout features a handful of rooms, it books out months in advance so book early, especially for weekend stays. You can book one night stays every Monday through Thursday with a minimum of two night stay from Friday through to Sunday.

Pack smart, high quality layers. the weather on the cliffs can change rapidly transitioning from bright sunshine to dramatic coastal winds in minutes.

Take binoculars for spotting passing ships, coastal birds and the occasional seal.