The park was opened to the public in 1902 after the land was purchased from the Willingdon Estate.
It contains a Site of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI) due to its ancient woodland ecosystem.
The park hosts one of the largest remaining fragments of natural woodland in the Eastbourne area.
A portion of the park is maintained as a dedicated arboretum with specimen trees planted in the early 20th century.
The park serves as the home ground for several local football and cricket clubs throughout the seasons.
Hampden Park is Eastbourne's largest public park, encompassing 82 acres of woodland, open meadow, and formal gardens. The park is historically significant for its ancient semi-natural woodland, which features a dense canopy of oak, ash, and hazel trees. A dedicated arboretum showcases a diverse collection of trees, contributing to the site's status as a local nature reserve. Recreational facilities include football pitches, cricket squares, a tennis center, and a skate park. The central lake acts as a habitat for waterfowl and provides a scenic focal point for visitors. The park is managed to balance conservation of biodiversity with public access for outdoor sports and leisure. It features a network of surfaced paths suitable for walking and cycling through both wooded and open areas. The site maintains a visitor center with amenities and local information.
The small wooden bridge overlooking the ornamental lake during the golden hour.
Bring waterproof footwear if exploring the woodland trails, as the paths can remain muddy after rain.
Check the park's central cafe area for local community event notices before starting your walk.
The park is spacious; prioritize the northern woodland section for solitude and the southern fields for sports.
Do not feed bread to the waterfowl; use appropriate bird feed or avoid feeding to maintain water quality.
Keep dogs under control, especially near the lake and in areas with nesting birds; follow 'leave no trace' principles.
