The AA 3-star hotel closed down after the New Year celebrations and will re-open on Tuesday, 16th February.

During this period, the hotel’s owners have completely refurbished the guests’ TV lounge and made a number of improvements to some of the guest bedrooms and bathrooms.

The hotel’s General Manager, Sue Harris, commented: “We had a good year in 2009, despite the recession, and I believe the work we have done over the Winter will help ensure we have another successful year in 2010.

I hope that our many regular guests are pleased with the improvements we have made around the hotel and that we are maintaining the standards they expect from us.”

The hotel boasts many features and functions to make your stay as comfortable as possible, including:

• 40 en-suite bedrooms
• 80-seat restaurant
• Private lounge & bar
• Internet access & free ‘Wi-Fi’
• Organised entertainment
• Lift level and ground floor rooms
• On-street parking & secure garages
• Level access & stair lifts
• Safe bike & scooter storage
• Wheelchair and scooter hire
• Meeting & business facilities
• Private event hire

The New Wilmington Hotel is situated just off the seafront, close to local shops with two nearby pubs, a fish and chip restaurant, Thai restaurant and grocery stores.  The hotel is also conveniently situated for the town’s three main theatres, the Congress, Devonshire Park and Winter Garden, providing year-round entertainment.  Opposite the hotel, The Eastbourne International Tennis tournament which will take place at Devonshire Park this year from 12-15 August.  Eastbourne Town Centre with its two shopping centres and mainline railway station is a little further away.  The annual 999 Display in July and the “Only Free Annual International Airshow”, Airbourne, is also located a short walk away on the Western Lawns, which will take place this year from 12-15 August 2010.

The New Wilmington Hotel run various events and offers year-round.

The New Wilmington Hotel is a family-run, 40-bedroom property on Compton Street in Eastbourne. The hotel welcomes private guests, coach parties and provides meeting facilities for corporate customers.

The New Wilmington Hotel has been awarded 3 stars and a Merit Score of 74% by the AA and is ranked as the No.1* hotel in Eastbourne on independent travel website, TripAdvisor (www.tripadvisor.co.uk).

As you enter the centre, the feeling is one of a Dickensian nature, with its bustling ambience.  The shops, a large selection of independent specialist businesses, under a Victorian glass roof, is bright and attractive.  The brick-paved flooring gives the added unique feel, that it’s not just another shopping centre.

The traders, from butchers to estate agents, from florists to jewellers, offer a wide variety of wares within their premises.

Enterprise Shopping Centre | Entrance

50 specialist shops have been trading in the Enterprise Centre for almost 20 years:

Food| Places to Eat | Clothes / Shoes | Dress Hire | Haberdashery | Clothes Repair | Jewellery | Flowers | Clairvoyant | Health & Beauty | Charity Shop | Maternity & Baby | Toys | New & Used Cars | Dolls’ Houses & Collectable Dolls | Tattoo & Body Piercing | Tudor History Tours | Mobile Phones | Household | Promotional Merchandise | Pet Food & Care | Music & Photography | Estate Agents | Nursing Agents | Party Shop | Cards | Gifts | Crafts | Photographer | Stained Glass | Jokes & Fancy Dress | Antiques Market

10 Good Reasons to Come to the Enterprise Centre

Enterprise Centre

• Eastbourne is an attractive, prosperous, expanding shopping centre
• We are well established having traded successfully for over 20 years
• There are fifty businesses here creating a strong customer flow
• Our terms are fully inclusive, there are no Business Rates to pay, with shops available on 1 year licences
• We spend £60,000 a year on promoting and advertising the centre
• We are next to the railway and bus stations and main taxi ranks
• We are in a very attractive building that is unique in concept
• We have a large surface car park
• There is a full time Collectors’ Market
• There is an experienced, on-site management team.

Enterprise Centre | Car Parking

About the Centre

The Enterprise Shopping Centre opened nearly 20 years ago in the heart of Eastbourne – one of the most prosperous towns on the south coast – with the idea of bringing together a large selection of independent specialist businesses under one roof. The benefits of such an arrangement are that costs such as business rates, insurance, security, maintenance, cleaning and advertising are all shared. We currently spend over £60,000 a year advertising and promoting The Centre. Likewise customers are shared with everyone benefiting from each others’ customer flow.

Today the Enterprise Shopping Centre is the very successful home to over 50 different businesses including a wide variety of shops, places to eat, a Food Hall, specialist services and a collectors market. There is an established clientele of between 10,000 and 15,000 customers visiting the Centre each week which means that any business opening here enjoys an immediate captive customer base. The Enterprise Shopping Centre is by the Railway Station on Eastbourne’s main thoroughfare, Terminus Road. It is surrounded by car parking for up to 500 cars.

Some Salient Facts about Eastbourne

Enterprise Centre | Front

• A catchment area of over 180,000 residents within a 30 minute drive
• Shopping attracts 1.8 million tourists and 30,000 foreign students every summer
• Strong retail mix of major department stores and supermarkets
• 70,000 conference delegates per year
• Growing population of 60,000 people between the ages of 15 and 45

Collector's Market

At the front of the Enterprise Centre is a Collector’s Market with a range of collectables and antiquities.

Enterprise Shopping Centre, Station Parade, Eastbourne, E. Sussex, BN21 1BD
T: 01323 639504 | F: 01323 640944

Directions: The Enterprise Centre is situated next to the main railway station in Eastbourne, and directly off the main A22 road into Eastbourne.

Source: Enterprise Specialist Shopping | The Enterprise Centre

During our long wait to be served by the one member of serving staff  (there were other staff, one was preparing and cooking whilst the other two just stood and stared), we chose our meal.  The Snack Box looked inviting, with 1 Piece of Original Recipe Chicken, Mini Breast Chicken, Popcorn Chicken and 2 Hot Wings, all served with chips and a regular drink for £1.99.

After we had earned our way to the front of the queue (there were only two people in front of us but the member of staff was serving at a snail’s pace), we ordered our Snack Box.  Totally astonished were we when we were asked which we would like with our chips?

After this descrepancy was explained, we made it clear what the poster had not – from the omittance of the word “or” in between each item, or the words “Choose between” at the beginning.  Yes, the bargain included only one of the aforementioned items with chips, not all four.  Immediately, this didn’t appear to be so appealing.

However, we continued with our order.  Whilst we waited for the tricky order to be boxed up (1 Piece of Original Recipe Chicken with chips and Tea times two), we were more horrified by another member of staff clocking in for his shift as he walked through the shop whilst busily munching through a half-eaten sandwich as he crossed the threshold from the restaurant into the serving area.  He not only didn’t stop to finish his half-eaten sandwich before entering the serving/preparation area, he also didn’t wash his hands, remove his coat or tidy his hair, instead stood busily finishing his sandwich whilst talking to the staff preparing the food.

It has to be noted that our visit to KFC was before the lunchtime rush and the restaurant area was only a quarter full with customers.  We felt less that satisfied with our visit and hope that it was due to an oversight of staff rather than a habit that we have now to expect from our conveniently-placed eateries.

On checking the website at www.kfc.co.uk, the Snack Box is described as:

“With KFC’s new Snack Box you can now enjoy your favourite KFC chicken & chips, anytime and anywhere, without breaking the bank!

Choose from a small portion of Popcorn Chicken, two Hot Wings, one Mini Breast Fillet or one piece of Original Recipe Chicken; and then add a generous portion of fries; all for just £1.99!” – ah! that all important phrase: “Choose from …”

Normally speaking, KFC has to be one of my favourite fast food outlets which is why I felt so disappointed.  However, not that I visit too often, it won’t stop me dropping in again sometime in the future.

Street address

Phone number

+44 (0) 1273 834566

KFC’s website gives a thorough description of their brand, their services and franchise opportunities, as well as nutritional and allergy information, careers and charity commitments.  All the details can be found at www.kfc.co.uk

My reasons for visiting Spice Garden have been varied; with friends, Christmas meals with colleagues, and even dropped in on the hoof and each time have recieved a warm welcome, friendly service and fantastic food.

I’ve tried a number of dishes and haven’t not enjoyed any of them, but I do prefer my curries on the milder side.  The food is cooked to order, the individual silver dishes are kept hot on tea light warmers, warm plates and starched handkerchiefs.

Spice Garden have undergone extensive renovations in the last few years, completely redesigning everything from their logo to the layout inside – so much so that any extising customer visiting the newly refurbished premises for the first time would be forgiven for thinking they had entered a different establishment.

The renovations have provided a modern, upbeat alternative to the traditional restaurant it once offered, with its open plan freshness, it now affords almost double the seating, with an additional function room for private parties.  This function room is popular so booking at least 2 weeks beforehand is advisable.

I have never been disappointed with the service, the meals or any of the facilities in the relaxing ambience with subtle, modern lighting.  The washroom facilites are kept scrupulously clean.

Spice Garden also offer an external catering service within a 5-mile radius.

View Spice Garden‘s varied and generous menu, available for eat in and take away, as well as a Sunday Buffet Lunch from 12-3pm, eat as much as you like for just £12.95 per adult.

Spice Garden themselves pride themselves on every aspect of their service, stating:

“In choosing Spice Garden, you have just paid us a huge compliment and set us the challenging  task of living up to the high standards you would expect and deserve.

“Our menu offers a wide ranging diversity of contemporary Indian cuisine.  Spice Garden prides itself in carefully selecting the most interesting and tasteful dishes from the gastronomic cradle of the Indian Subcontinent.

“Our dishes contain a riot of colours, aromas, tastes and textures in order to reflect the rich heritage and culture of the regions from which the foor originates.  Rest assured, no effort would be spared in preparing the finest take-away Indian cuisine for the discerning customer.”

I can personally testify for the excellent accommodation service Spice Garden offers.

Spice Garden, 6 Church Street, Old Town, Eastbourne, BN21 1HT. Tel: 01323 722121 

Reviewer : HE – Foodie
We visited the Spice Gardens in Eastbourne on Saturday for the first time and were not disappointed. The service was great and the food was lovely would definitely book again.
Overall: 8.2 | Food: 8 | Value: 8 | Service: 9 | Toilets: (na) | Ambience: 8 | Recommend: 8

I’ve visited Charlie Brown’s on many occasions, my first visit was less than exciting.  It is was a busy Saturday night and the staff were pushed to their limits.  We had waited a long time for service and an even longer time for our meal to come out.  On this occasion, the waitress wasn’t on best form, to say the least.

Once the meals did arrive I wasn’t disappointed.   Food is American style and American portions.  Every meal is served with a mountain of chips but you do have an alternative choice of a jacket potato if you prefer, together with grilled tomatoes, mushrooms and, usually, peas. 

I have to say that this was the only time I’ve experienced a less than adequate service, since then I have visited many times and have always been thoroughly satisfied with the food, service and experience.  Since their move to larger premises, they have gone from strength to strength.  They pride themselves on being a family-run diner, providing freshly cooked food just the way you like it, and so that extra wait really is worth it.  The waitresses are courteous and friendly, despite being busy, they always have time for a chat.

The bill always comes accompanied with a handful of jelly babies.  As the meals are so plentiful, Charlie Brown’s is one of the most reasonably priced restaurants in Eastbourne, due to the fact that you don’t need a starter!

Charlie Brown’s is always busy at weekends and is advisable to book to avoid disappointment.  From a simple burger to ribs or steak, cooked to perfection, this is a great place to eat but make sure you’re hungry!! 

Charlie Brown’s is popular with groups and birthday celebrations are always recognised by their signature tune of Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday To You” and a birthday cake, if ordered in advance.

Charlie Browns Diner , 54 Seaside Road Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 3PB.  Tel: 01323 726588

 By A TripAdvisor Member – tripadvisor.com – 23 March 2009‎

 By snikta1 – 29 Sep 2009‎

 By clint – 8 Aug 2009‎

 By maddymay – 21 Feb 2009‎

 By angelofthesouth – qype.co.uk – 17 Nov 2008‎

 By slou72 – trustedplaces.com – 9 Sep 2008‎

 By dellyb – trustedplaces.com – 2 Sep 2008‎

 By mindspace – qype.co.uk – 3 Jun 2008‎

Interior of the Little Polka Café & Restaurant

Behind a modest shop front sits one of the very best restaurants I have had the pleasure to happen upon.  I say “happen upon” simply because I didn’t realise its existence before a friend and her daughter took me there for her birthday.

When I viewed the menu for the first time, just like any new restaurant, I was like a child in a toy store - not sure what to try.  I toyed with the idea of trying something totally Polish but as I hadn’t ever sampled Polish cuisine before, I decided to stick to something I knew I’d like.  I settled on the Mielone, described as “Two round large meat balls, juicy and soft, fried in a pan and served with mash or fried kopytka and buraczki.”  Kopytka is a potato dumpling and Buraczki is stewed beetroot.

I wondered whether the meal size would be adequate as it didn’t sound a great deal.  However, I was mistaken.  Served on Boleslawiec ceramic plates, gave that feeling that you were somewhere completely different sampling something very special.

Mielone - Two round large meat balls served with fried kopytka and buraczki

 The meatballs were so succulent, tender, and so flavoursome.  I was surprised by the size of them, so delicious, but don’t be misled, they’re extremely filling!  The Kopytka was different, it wasn’t the sort of taste I was expecting, but then again I wasn’t really sure what I was expecting.  It was different to the traditional dumpling we have in our stews, but then made with potatoes instead of suet and flour, my taste buds were a little confused!  That’s not to say that they weren’t delicious, though.  The Buraczki was to die for, so fruity and sweet, there didn’t seem to be enough on the plate!

Little Polka doesn’t have a license to serve alcohol, but for a small fee, alcohol is permitted on the premises.

The restaurant is bright and spacious, the host friendly, warm and inviting.   The décor is plain and bright, made more appealing by the furniture, made up of wooden farmhouse tables, chairs and dresser, a comfortable leather sofa waiting area and even a piano.  The dresser is adorned with traditional Boleslawiec ceramic tableware which is available to purchase.

The service was excellent, prices are very reasonable and the experience is totally unique.

I enjoyed my experience at The Little Polka Café & Restaurant so much that I have been back since, and I can also recommend the Goulash, and Roast Beef in Beer.

The Little Polka Café & Restaurant opening times are slightly varied to other restaurants and enquiries are advised to avoid disappointment.

The Little Polka Café & Restaurant‘s menu and more can be viewed online at http://www.littlepolka.co.uk/, alternatively, you can view the menu here:

The Little Polka Café & Restaurant‘s menu: Page 1 | Page 2

Little Polka Café & Restaurant, 55 Seaside, Eastbourne, BN21 3PL - Tel. 01323 729622

When you enter Mr Hau, it’s immediately clear that you’ve entered an authentic Chinese, family run restaurant.  If you’re not greeted by Mr Hau himself, one of the friendly staff is always on hand to welcome you – and it’s hard not to notice immediately the beautiful authentic décor that shrouds the walls.

If you’ve never visited Mr Hau before you’re in for a treat.  The vast menu offers everything you’d expect from an average Chinese restaurant – and then some!  Choosing your dishes is half the fun.  Wanting a bit of everything is the pain.  For a first visit I would certainly recommend a set menu and, if necessary, adding some dishes to it.  There’s definitely something for every taste bud in the land!

                    I would personally recommend any of the following dishes:

                    Hors D’Ouevres
                    Crispy Seaweed
                    Butterfly Prawns
                    Toasted Prawns with Sesame Seeds
                    Spring Roll

                    Soup
                    Chicken & Chicken Soup

                    A Feast on Its Own
                    Aromatic Crispy Duck

                    Main Meals
                    Sliced Beef with Spring Onion & Ginger
                    Deep Fried Shredded Beef with Chilli
                    Lemon Chicken
                    Sweet & Sour Chicken

                    Rice Dishes
                    Egg Fried Rice
                    Special Fried Rice

                    Sweets
                    Toffee Apple
                    Toffee Banana

All dishes are served on plate warmers intricately decorated with vegetables carved into flowers and dragons.  The service is fantastic, slick and efficient; the staff helpful and cheery and the establishment clean, warm and welcoming; and for the authentic Chinese beverage I would recommend the Chinese Tea; and no Mr Hau dining experience is complete without a fortune cookie to finish.

Prices are a little more expensive, but for the generous servings, the service and experience, that little extra goes a long way.  Mr Hau and all his staff greet all new customers as friends and always remember existing customers warmly.

Mr Hau‘s mission is clear, set by his own standards, he aims to:

“… provide our customers with only the finest Peking and Szechuan cuisine, within a relaxed friendly atmosphere, offering unbeatable service.  We aim to be the very best restaurant in not only Eastbourne but the whole of the South East of England.  We want every customer that enters our restaurant to leave not only having had a fantastic meal, but also a wonderful experience. Only the very best is good enough for our customers”.

From my personal experiences of dining at Mr Hau, this has certainly been achieved.

Not only is every dining experience flawless, but Mr Hau is keen to celebrate both local and traditional Chinese events, such as Christmas, New Year, St Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year.

Mr Hau‘s Restaurant underwent extensive refurbishment some two or three years ago and now offers a larger dining area downstairs which is bright and warm and continues the same authentic theme.

Going that extra mile, Mr Hau also extends their services to cater for the outside customer for private functions.  Able to cater from 4 to 400 guests, he offers his catering expertise to suit any budget; they can either prepare on the premises or have it delivered to your premises.

Mr Hau also supports local and national charities and has raised over £10,000.

Mr Hau‘s restaurants, menus, events and more can be viewed online at http://www.mrhaus.co.uk/

Mr Hau, 219 Terminus Road, Eastbourne, BN21 3DH. Tel: 01323 723723