Our Story Begins

The foundation stone was laid in 1974 and we opened our doors on 4th September 1976. During the opening ceremony, Jack Jones spoke about the importance of unions caring for their members, not only in their working lives but in their home lives too. That commitment to looking after people is something we remain proud to uphold today.

The Vision of Jack Jones

Jack Jones was a prominent British trade union leader and general secretary of the TGWU. He was the driving force behind the opening of the centre, with a vision to create a place of comfort and solidarity for union members. It would offer not only rest and recuperation, but also opportunities for education and conferences. Fifty years later, we remain proud to continue that legacy.

“It epitomises our hopes and our dreams and I truly believe that its achievement is a shining example to all of us to raise our standards in the forward march of the people towards a richer and fuller life.”

Jack Jones, opening ceremony, 1976

Opening Our Doors to a Wider Public

In 2006, we opened our doors to guests beyond the union for the first time and became The Eastbourne Centre. This marked an important new chapter, allowing us to become more closely connected with our local community while remaining proud of our union ownership.

Becoming The View

After welcoming a wider range of guests for eight years, we became The View in 2014. The new name gave the commercial hotel its own identity while allowing us to remain proud of our union ownership and the values behind it.

Looking After Our People

Our union heritage also shapes the way we look after our team. We offer the National Living Wage and do not use zero hours contracts, giving colleagues greater certainty and stability. Enhanced company sick pay, paid breaks, meals on duty, Health & Wellbeing and childcare allowances, at least 30 days’ holiday pro rata and confidential support through our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme are just some of the benefits available.

We also invest in training and leadership development, helping colleagues feel valued, supported and able to build rewarding careers with us. We believe that by looking after our team and giving them the support they need to thrive, they are able to give our guests the very best possible experience.

Our Values Today

Although our hotel has changed over the past 50 years, the original vision of rest and recuperation, education and bringing people together remains central to what we do. It can still be seen in the care we give our convalescence guests, our investment in conference facilities for union members and commercial guests alike, and the warm welcome we extend to everyone who visits. Our history continues to shape both our present and our future.

Celebrate With our Golden Stay and Dine Package

To celebrate this very special milestone, we have created our Golden Stay and Dine package, giving you the perfect opportunity to join us and experience The View for yourself.

Discover our Golden Stay and Dine package and celebrate 50 years with us on Eastbourne’s seafront.

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