Top 10 Best Ice Cream Brands in Eastbourne

Eastbourne's Love Affair with Ice Cream

Few things capture the spirit of an English seaside town like an ice cream on a sunny day. In Eastbourne, strolling along the promenade with a cone in hand, watching the waves and the famous pier, is a cherished tradition shared by locals and visitors alike. The town has a rich ice cream heritage, with family-run parlours that have served generations of holidaymakers.

Today, Eastbourne's ice cream scene blends that nostalgia with modern artisan gelato, inventive flavours and plant-based options. This guide highlights ten of the best ice cream brands and parlours to seek out, from the seafront to Sovereign Harbour and beyond.

The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands and Parlours in Eastbourne

1. Gelato Famoso

Gelato Famoso occupies a special place in Eastbourne's history. Located on Marine Parade, it continues the legacy of Fusciardi's, the beloved family-run ice cream parlour that operated from 1967 until 2022 before being rebranded. Today, Gelato Famoso offers seafront views and a wide variety of flavours, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a true Eastbourne tradition.

2. Hot Gelato

Hot Gelato is known for artisan desserts and sundaes. Its creative approach to gelato and indulgent sundaes makes it a favourite for families and anyone looking for more than a simple cone. It is the perfect spot for a sweet treat after a day at the beach.

3. Gianni's

Gianni's is celebrated for its homemade gelato. Handmade in small batches, its gelato has the dense, smooth texture and intense flavour that fans of authentic Italian ice cream look for. Seasonal flavours make repeat visits rewarding.

4. Thayers

Thayers serves traditional and exotic ice cream flavours near the pier. Its range caters to both classic tastes, such as vanilla and strawberry, and adventurous palates seeking unusual combinations. Its location makes it an easy stop during a seafront stroll.

5. Dolci

Dolci at Sovereign Harbour offers ice cream and gelato at The Waterfront. Enjoying a scoop while watching boats in the marina is a relaxing alternative to the busier town seafront, particularly on summer evenings.

6. Marina Dolci

Marina Dolci is another Sovereign Harbour favourite, serving ice cream and gelato at The Waterfront. Its marina setting and variety of flavours make it popular with residents of the harbour area and visitors exploring the waterside restaurants.

7. Di Lieto's Coffee Lounge

Di Lieto's Coffee Lounge at Sovereign Harbour combines coffee and ice cream in a relaxed setting. It is a great choice for those who want to pair a scoop of gelato with an expertly made coffee.

8. Rustico

Rustico at the marina offers Italian ice cream tubs and affogato, the classic Italian dessert of gelato topped with a shot of hot espresso. Its authentic approach adds a touch of Italy to the Eastbourne waterfront.

9. Sussex Ice Cream Co.

Sussex Ice Cream Co. is a regional brand producing small-batch, handcrafted ice cream for wholesale and retail distribution. You may find its products in cafés, farm shops and delis around Eastbourne and across Sussex, and its commitment to quality celebrates the county's dairy heritage.

10. Boho Gelato

Boho Gelato is a Sussex gelato maker from Brighton known for inventive and seasonal flavours. While based along the coast, it is part of the wider regional gelato scene that has raised expectations for quality across the South Coast, and it is well worth trying when visiting nearby.

Ice Cream Versus Gelato: What Is the Difference?

Traditional British ice cream is typically made with more cream and churned faster, incorporating more air for a light, rich texture. Gelato uses more milk and less cream, is churned slowly for a denser texture and is served at a slightly warmer temperature, which allows its flavours to shine. Eastbourne offers excellent examples of both, so trying each is part of the fun.

Ice Cream Trends on the South Coast

Local and seasonal ingredients are increasingly popular, with flavours inspired by Sussex strawberries, honey, elderflower and even English sparkling wine. Plant-based and dairy-free options have become mainstream, offering creamy results made with oat, coconut or nut bases.

Premium experiences such as affogato, gelato sandwiches and elaborate sundaes are attracting customers seeking something special. Sustainability is also on the agenda, with more parlours using compostable cups and spoons and reducing single-use plastics.

Tips for the Perfect Eastbourne Ice Cream Day

Visit on a weekday or early evening during summer to avoid the longest queues. Combine your ice cream with a walk along the promenade, a visit to the bandstand or a trip to the pier. For a quieter experience, head to Sovereign Harbour, where marina views provide a peaceful setting.

Many parlours offer tasting spoons, so do not be afraid to ask before choosing. And remember that in Eastbourne, ice cream is not just for summer; many locals enjoy a scoop year-round on crisp, sunny winter days.

Final Thoughts

Eastbourne's ice cream scene is a delightful blend of heritage and innovation. From the historic legacy of Fusciardi's continued at Gelato Famoso to authentic Italian gelato at Sovereign Harbour and handcrafted Sussex brands, there is a perfect scoop waiting for everyone. Grab a cone, find a spot on the seafront and enjoy one of life's simplest seaside pleasures.