EASTBOURNE has been named in the UK’s top 10 resorts for best value breaks.

The town is the eighth cheapest destination in the country and cheapest in the South East, nudging past the likes of Torquay and cities such as Newcastle with an average price per hotel of £87.

The survey is based on the average cost of a hotel on Trivago.co.uk.

The research, based only on those larger destinations with 60 hotels or more, takes into account prices from January 1 to December 31.

Eastbourne proved to be a popular place to visit all year round last year, without breaking the bank.

Councillor Margaret Bannister, the borough council’s lead member for tourism and enterprise, said: “We know Eastbourne attracts a high level of repeat business and one of the reasons for this is our excellent value for money.

“With a lively conference, events and entertainment programme which runs 365 days of the year and Britain’s best sunshine record, this allows the majority of hotels in Eastbourne to compete all year round, unlike some destinations, with some great deals and exclusive packages to be had outside of the peak season.

“It’s not just about hotel prices though.

“With so many free events and attractions to discover, including the South Downs National Park, resorts such as Eastbourne are increasing in popularity for frequent, quick getaways in the face of rising costs when travelling abroad.”

Tim Cobb, president of Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce, said that the town was on the up.

Work has just started on an £85 million extension to the Arndale shopping centre and he said: “Eastbourne has always punched above its weight to compete for the tourism and retail pound but now there is a regeneration revolution that is sweeping through the town.

“Shoppers will soon be seeing the likes of Fat Face, Carluccio’s, Nando’s and Wagamama opening up here.

“This is jaw-dropping news and will not only encourage Eastbourne residents to shop local, it will entice visitors from our neighbouring towns and cities in the coming years.”

London tops the UK’s most expensive destinations at almost double the price with an average of £156.

Eleanor Kutylowski, of Trivago, said: “With many people set to enjoy holidays within the UK this year, it’s important to know where Brits can find the best value at home.

“Our data shows that several British beaches offer low-cost accommodation – welcome news for anyone looking to take a staycation by the sea in 2017.”