All Saints The Old Chapel in Eastbourne is a gorgeous Grade II listed masterpiece located just 90 minutes from London. Its walls pulse with 150+ years of intriguing stories, but it’s the Victorian grandeur that steals the show—soaring vaults, intricate stonework and dramatic stained-glass windows are just the half of it. One visit reveals why locals guard it like treasure—here’s why it’s worth a day trip from London.
All Saints The Old Chapel in Eastbourne: why this 19th-century gem is worth a visit
Added to the grounds of All Saints Convalescent Hospital in 1874, All Saints The Old Chapel in Eastbourne was designed by renowned architect Henry Woodyer. In 2004, skilled craftspeople from Priest Restoration—renowned for their work on Kensington Palace and Somerset House—led a meticulous restoration project to preserve the chapel’s Gothic Revival character. The result: a stunning Victorian landmark restored to its former glory.
A 60-foot aisle with Minton-tiled flooring leads past magnificent German stained-glass windows to the grand Belgian altar. There, striking Gothic arches frame the space as sunlight streams through the jewel-toned glass.
With its captivating beauty and storied past, All Saints The Old Chapel is a premier location for special events in Eastbourne, from luxurious weddings to acclaimed concert series. This season, a lineup of candlelit concerts is shining a light on timeless classical pieces as well as iconic film scores inside this Grade II listed landmark.
The fascinating history behind this Victorian chapel near London
Before the chapel rose in 1874, its grounds also hosted All Saints Convalescent Hospital—one of Britain’s first purpose-built convalescent (and reportedly haunted) hospitals, established in 1869. Run by the All Saints Sisters of the Poor, it played a pivotal medical role in Britain’s defining historical events from the late 19th to early 20th centuries.
During the Boer War in South Africa, the hospital set aside 30 beds to care for the wounded soldiers. After the outbreak of the First World War, the 10th Canadian Military Unit took over the facility, transforming it into a vital resource for Allied forces. Injured soldiers often turned to the chapel for prayer and solace during their recovery period at the hospital.
Another interesting addition to the chapel’s history is its connection to a former British Prime Minister. In 1953, Reverend Hubert Brasier—the former deacon of Southwark Cathedral—served as chaplain, overseeing both the chapel and its neighbouring hospital. While living in Eastbourne, Brasier married Zaidee Mary, and together they had a daughter, Theresa May.
Planning your day trip from London to Eastbourne
Southern Railway (and some Thameslink services) run hourly from London Victoria, taking approximately 90 minutes. From Eastbourne Station, it’s a 20-minute walk to the chapel. By car, drive southeast via A27/M3 and take the exit on junction 9 toward Chichester and Eastbourne.
📍Address: 22 Darley Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN20 7GE.