Eastbourne Town: Club Directory
Eastbourne Town are one of Sussex football’s historic names. The club traces its roots to 1880 and competes in the Isthmian League South East Division in 2026/27. Based at The Saffrons, Town combine a long county-football heritage with a place in the current Step 4 pyramid.
Quick Facts
- Club: Eastbourne Town FC
- Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
- League: Isthmian League South East Division
- Home ground: The Saffrons
- Club origins: 1880
Club History
The club’s official history begins on 29 October 1880, when Eastbourne FC and Eastbourne Rovers merged to form Eastbourne United. The side briefly became Eastbourne FC before adopting the name Devonshire Park, after its early home. The arrival of tennis at Devonshire Park eventually pushed football elsewhere, and the club moved to Saffrons Field, a name that remains associated with the ground today.
Renamed Eastbourne FC in 1889, the club became a major force in Sussex amateur football, winning the Sussex Senior Cup eight times up to 1907. It also won the Paris New Year’s Tournament in 1904 and the Challenge International du Nord in 1909. The club later competed in the Southern Amateur League and Corinthian League before adopting its present name in 1972. Its history includes major county-cup success and a long relationship with The Saffrons, which has hosted generations of supporters.
The Saffrons: Ground Guide
The Saffrons is Eastbourne Town’s historic home in Eastbourne, East Sussex. The ground has evolved over time, with a covered stand and terracing developed across different periods. The club’s own history records a ground attendance of 7,378 for an FA Cup tie against Hastings United on 10 October 1953.
Ground facilities and access arrangements can change, so check the official club website for current directions, ticket information, accessibility and any matchday notices before travelling.
Honours and Milestones
- 1880: Club origins trace to the merger of Eastbourne FC and Eastbourne Rovers.
- 1904: Won the Paris New Year’s Tournament.
- 1909: Won the Challenge International du Nord.
- Sussex Senior Cup: Eight wins recorded between the club’s early years and 1907.
- 1953: The Saffrons ground record was set against Hastings United in an FA Cup tie.
Matchday Guide
Eastbourne is served by rail and local bus routes. Check the club’s latest directions and match information before setting off, and confirm the fixture time in case of a change. The Saffrons’ historic character is an important part of the experience of visiting the club.
Getting There and Access
Use The Saffrons and the address listed in the ground guide or Quick Facts section above when planning your journey. Check the club’s current directions before setting off, as parking, access points and local restrictions can change. If travelling by public transport, verify current services and the return journey, particularly for evening fixtures.
Before You Visit
- Confirm the fixture and kick-off time with the club.
- Check current admission prices, payment options and turnstile opening times.
- Review parking, accessibility and public transport information for the specific match.
- Check official club updates on matchday for postponements or changes.
Follow NonLeagueReview
Follow @NonLeagueReview for non-league ground visits, historic club stories, matchday experiences, interviews and coverage from across the football pyramid.