The UK seaside town that’s miserable because of ‘too many’ tourists – ‘There’s hundreds!’

The seaside town of , , known for its stunning beaches and charming promenade, has long been a favourite getaway for Londoners seeking an escape from city life. 

With its Victorian pier, dramatic cliffs, and fresh sea air, it’s easy to see why it attracts thousands of visitors every year.

However, not all residents are thrilled about the influx of tourists. 

Many claim the town is now overcrowded, noisy, and struggling with crime and drug issues, leaving long-term locals feeling pushed out of their own community.

A recent study by placed Eastbourne as the fourth happiest town in the UK, but according to locals, the reality tells a different story. 

A separate ranking by listed Eastbourne as the eighth least happy place to live, based on factors such as household income, crime rates, and employment levels.

For many who have called Eastbourne home for decades, the town’s soaring popularity with tourists has come at a cost. Resident Debbie Milnes, 36, voiced her frustration, she said: “Everywhere you go, they are there. About 100 of them at a time. You can’t get through the town for them all.”

She added that she avoids the beach entirely now due to the sheer number of visitors, despite living just minutes from the seafront.

Aside from overcrowding, Eastbourne locals are increasingly concerned about rising crime and drug problems. 

Barman Tommy Powell, who has lived in Eastbourne his entire life, said: “Crime and drug addiction have got progressively worse in the last few years.”

Another resident, Patty, who has lived in Eastbourne since 1975, described the town’s decline:

“This was a beautiful place once, perfect for retirement. But now, there are so many boarded-up venues, derelict houses, and litter everywhere. And you’ve got to keep your eyes open because there’s been more violence on the streets.”

Official statistics earlier this year revealed that the town’s crime rate is 2% higher than the national average, with reports of drug activity, vandalism, and violence increasing.

Authorities confirm that drug-related crime is a major issue, with police warning about increasing cases of drug gangs moving into vulnerable locals’ homes to use as bases for illegal activity. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Till Sanderson stated that the main drugs circulating the area include cannabis, powdered cocaine, crack, and heroin.

Eastbourne isn’t the only UK coastal town struggling under the weight of tourism and other issues.

Residents of Whitstable, Kent, have hit out at second-home owners, saying their once-thriving community is now overrun with empty holiday homes and loud summer visitors.

In Staithes, Yorkshire, property prices have surged due to wealthy outsiders snapping up second homes, forcing young local families to move away.

And in Swanage, Dorset, crime rates have risen, leaving locals feeling increasingly unsafe in what was once considered an idyllic seaside retreat.