The incredible UK seaside town once named 'God's waiting room' now packed with tourists

Many Brits will be scouring the internet looking for the ideal coastal spot to go on their summer holidays.

One location that could provide a good option is Eastbourne, Sussex.

A stone's throw from Brighton, the town hasn't always been given a good wrap. It has been described as "God's waiting room" in the past due to its large population of pensioners.

Meanwhile, the Office for National Statistics found that Eastbourne is the third most miserable place in the country.

But locals and tourists who have spent time in the town are a lot more positive.

Joe Walton, who runs the classic football kit shop Students of the Game (a must-visit), told the Telegraph: "There's a buzz about the place and a really interesting art scene - the old clichés about Eastbourne seem to be slipping away.

"Losing the university campus was a bit of a blow, but foreign students still come to learn English, and they're great for our business."

Steve Sutherland, who has been visiting Eastbourne his whole life, says: "I have always loved Eastbourne. I've been going there since I was a child and I still do - my wife and I go to The Grand Hotel for a few days' break at least three or four times a year. Eastbourne always felt totally different to the Kent coast resorts of Margate, Ramsgate and Broadstairs; it was less hectic, more sophisticated I suppose.

"Sadly though, over the past few years I've witnessed a gradual decline. The town centre has more closed, boarded-up shops and hotels every time we go there, with the associated graffiti you get on empty buildings, which all adds to the air of abandonment. That said, I'm not giving up on the town as the potential of Eastbourne is huge."

Sites to check out in Eastbourne include the 'Little Chelsea' which boasts small shops, cafes and an art house.

In the Old Town, you can sample a pint of real ale and absorb the quaint surroundings.

Eastbourne also has a long, pebbly beach where kids can go to burn off some energy and enjoy the sea.

Rebecca Maer, who runs the Eastbourne Reporter, says the town is a great place to live while also having some downsides.

She said: "It is, unfortunately, highly car-dependent for a town just five miles across, with parking permitted almost everywhere and few bus lanes. Extraordinarily, cycling is still banned along much of the seafront.

"With vision and political courage, the town would be greatly improved with an active travel approach and much better public transport."