How Eastbourne Coaches is redefining modern coach travel

Travel is supposed to be relaxing, but all too often it feels rushed, impersonal and complicated! The good news is that a new Sussex-based venture is quietly bringing something reassuring back into fashion: well-run, thoughtfully planned coach travel with their passengers at its heart.

Eastbourne Coaches is the latest chapter in a long-standing family journey, led by husband-and-wife team Julian and Tracey Ledger, ably assisted by their experienced Transport Manager, combining deep transport expertise with a genuine love of travel.

This new business draws on years of experience while focusing on the future. The goal is to modernise coach holidays but keep the original values of convenience and comfort.

“We’ve both seen how travel has changed over the years,” says Tracey. “People still want to explore, relax and enjoy themselves, but they also expect better experiences and clearer communication.”

Julian’s background is firmly rooted in transport. He understands vehicles, routes, logistics and safety inside out. Tracey brings a strong travel and customer experience background, focusing on destinations, itineraries and the details that elevate a trip.

Modernising the coach holiday experience

Eastbourne Coaches has been designed with modern travellers in mind. Online booking, card payments, clear itineraries and transparent communication are central to the experience. The aim is to move coach holidays away from outdated stereotypes and reposition them as a smart, stress-free way to travel.

“Coach travel has always been incredibly practical,” Julian explains. “What’s changed is expectations. People want comfort, stress-free experiences and special memories. That’s exactly what we’re building.”

Door-to-door pick-up remains a cornerstone of their offering. From the moment our customers step outside their front door, their holiday has begun.

Luxury reimagined: Pullman-Class experiences

One highlight is Eastbourne Coaches’ luxury Pullman-class holiday, made for travellers looking for something extra special. These trips mix luxury coach travel with famous train rides, high-end hotels, and well-planned schedules.

This November, the Belmond British Pullman – Festive Bath trip will celebrate the golden age of travel in a memorable way. This trip is expected to be very popular.

Guests stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton London – Victoria, which is ideally located for the start of the trip. From London Victoria, travellers board the famous British Pullman train, the sister to the Orient Express, where the journey is a highlight in itself.

The train features beautifully restored 1920s carriages, creating a sense of old-fashioned glamour. Comfortable armchairs, detailed woodwork, and art deco touches set the mood, while uniformed staff provide excellent service.

“The moment you step on board, everything slows down,” says Tracey. “It’s elegant, relaxed and utterly immersive. You feel like you’ve stepped back in time.”

On the way to Bath, guests enjoy a three course sparkling Bellini brunch as the train travels through the winter countryside. There is free time to explore Bath’s Georgian buildings, historic streets, and Christmas markets, with about two and a half hours to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

On the return trip, guests are welcomed with a champagne reception and then served a four-course dinner with fine wines, on fine china and crystal. The experience combines luxury, nostalgia, and festive celebration.

“These are the kinds of experiences guests remember forever,” Julian says. “They are relaxed and beautifully organised.”

Convenience without compromise

Besides luxury, Eastbourne Coaches focuses on one of coach travel’s main benefits: convenience. There’s no need to drive, plan routes, or handle luggage. Guests can relax, enjoy the view, and arrive feeling refreshed.

“For many people, travel stress starts days before they leave,” Julian explains. “With a coach holiday, that stress simply isn’t there. You sit back and enjoy the journey.”

Financial peace of mind through ABTOT protection

Keeping customers’ money safe is also important to Julian & Tracey. Eastbourne Coaches have financial protection through the Government backed Bonded Coach Holidays scheme & ABTOT, giving customers peace of mind when booking.

“That peace of mind matters,” says Tracey. “It shows we take our responsibility seriously and that our customers can book with confidence.”

Established excellence in coach private hire

In addition to its growing tour program, Eastbourne Coaches also runs a well-established coach hire service. The fleet includes high-quality coaches for business trips, sports events, private parties, and group travel.

Whether it’s executive travel for businesses or luxury trips for clubs and groups, the company always focuses on comfort, presentation, and reliability.

“Whether it’s a corporate away day or a group heading to a major sporting event, the experience reflects on the organiser,” Julian notes. “We make sure it feels professional from start to finish.”

A family business with a clear vision

Eastbourne Coaches is a family business built on care, experience, and attention to detail. Julian and Tracey are closely involved in every part of the company.

“We want our customers to feel looked after,” Tracey says. “And we want them to be excited about travelling with us again.”

By combining tradition, modern ideas, and high-quality experiences, Eastbourne Coaches aims to prove that coach travel can be convenient, luxurious, and truly enjoyable all at once.

www.eastbournecoaches.co.uk