About

The Sovereign Harbour development is situated on an area of Eastbourne known as The Crumbles.  

A harbour and development in its final position was first proposed in the 1960’s.   In 1988, harbour developers Tarmac (now Carillion) entered into an agreement with Southern Water for the purpose of safeguarding the sea defences in front of the 3,000 houses that Tarmac were proposing to build as part of the development.

After a number of issues an agreement (The Sovereign Harbour Beaches Sea Defence) was entered into with Carillon. Under this agreement Sea defences up to a superior standard would be paid for by Carillion and a Trust funded by the residents of Sovereign Harbour.  These works would comprise a 450 metre long rock revetment and shingle replenishment costing approximately £2.5 million.

Opened in 1993, Sovereign Harbour is northern Europe’s largest composite marina complex and boasts four linked harbours and the hugely popular Waterfront retail and restaurant development with indoor and outdoor dining.

The adjoining Sovereign Harbour Retail Park also offers excellent shopping and transport links with major brands including Next, TK Maxx, Matalan, Asda and more.

The harbour offers some wonderful walks with lots to see, including one of Europe’s largest water features.

Situated at the eastern end of Eastbourne’s seafront, the tidal Outer Harbour provides an entrance to the marina through twin sea locks, which are operated 24 hours a day.

Seals are often known to make an appearance in the outer harbour, and there are several Napoleonic Martello Tower sea defences on the beach.