The Buccaneer is a pub with character, nestled right between the Winter Gardens Complex and the Devonshire Park Theatre. Apparently originally built by the Duke of Devonshire as a private bar for the staff of the Grand Hotel, the Buccaneer now is run by the amiable and very welcoming pair of Gary and Steve. Open from 11 in the morning till 11 at night - and often 2 am in the morning on many nights - no two nights are ever the same.
As very likely a unique theatre pub, both the Congress and Devonshire Park Theatre cast and crew hang out there, so don't be surprised if you rub shoulders with famous and up-and-coming actors and actresses.
As a real ale drinker, I love the range on offer, especially as they hold a National Cask Ale award for the quality of the beer. I can vouch for that, and the own name Buccaneer Ale is my preferred tipple, moreso as 10p on each pint goes to their chosen charity - National Canine Partners.
The food is good - many items are 2 for £10, so it's inexpensive; the drinks are good (wine and shorts among them); the company is cheery; the ambience is great - from the back veranda you can see the whole spread of Devonshire Park; and the history of theatre glows at you from the framed posters on the walls of the productions of yesteryear.
My favourite pub in Eastbourne - with the Wetherspoons in Cornfield Terrace, the Lamb in Old Town and the London and County near the station good follow-ups - and I highly recommend the Buccaneer to anyone to add on their tour of must-see pubs if you are in town. read more