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EASTBOURNE’S newest transport success story is preparing for its biggest year yet, as Eastbourne Coaches announces a major expansion, a new holiday programme and a public brochure launch event this January.
Founded in May 2023 by local family man Julian Ledger, Eastbourne Coaches has rapidly built a strong reputation across the region.
With a long career in the transport sector, Julian set out to create a reliable, community-focused coach company capable of serving schools, businesses, charities, sports clubs and private groups.
What began as a modest operation with two drivers has grown into a thriving business employing seven fully qualified, enhanced-DBS-certified drivers.
Julian’s ambition was supported early on by the arrival of Transport Manager Antony Burkill, a seasoned professional with extensive experience in coach operations. Together, Julian and Antony have shaped Eastbourne Coaches into a company known for professionalism, safety and quality service.
Rapid growth and a modern fleet
Since its launch, Eastbourne Coaches has worked with an impressive and diverse list of clients from local schools and colleges to language schools, charities, sports clubs, private businesses and even fellow coach operators needing additional support. Its flexible approach to private hire has helped it become a go-to transport provider for both regular bookings and one-off journeys.
The fleet itself has grown in capability and comfort. Eastbourne Coaches now operates vehicles ranging from 16 to 61 seats, with the largest luxury coaches offering toilets, air conditioning and light refreshments. A milestone moment came in May 2025 when the company took delivery of a brand-new PSVAR-compliant Yutong coach, ensuring full wheelchair accessibility and reinforcing its commitment to inclusive travel.
New holiday programme for 2026
As the company looks towards 2026, Eastbourne Coaches is preparing to enter an exciting new chapter: the launch of a UK Tour Holiday Programme. This expansion transforms the firm from a private hire specialist into a full-service holiday operator, offering curated coach breaks across the country.
A standout feature of the new programme will be the home pick-up service, providing customers with a seamless start to their holiday. Passengers will be collected directly from their front door, removing the hassle of meeting points or additional travel arrangements.
The company is also embracing modern booking systems, including online reservations and secure card transactions, making it easier than ever for customers to plan and pay for their trips.
To support this growth, January will also see the opening of a new customer-facing office at 3 Courtlands Road in Eastbourne, where travellers can drop in for advice, information, or to book their next holiday. The office will become a hub for the company’s expanding operations and a welcoming space for customers to speak directly with the team.
The expansion also marks the arrival of a new full-time member of the leadership team. Julian’s wife Tracey Ledger, who has a strong background in travel, will be joining the business from January.
Tracey will work closely with customers planning their 2026 and 2027 holidays and is looking forward to meeting travellers in person at the new Courtlands Road office. Her expertise in customer service and travel planning adds another layer of knowledge and family spirit to the growing company.
To celebrate the new holiday programme, Eastbourne Coaches is inviting the public to an official brochure launch event at The Hotel Cumberland on Grand Parade.
Taking place on Wednesday 21st January, the event begins at 3pm and offers attendees the chance to meet Julian, Tracey, Antony and the wider team. Guests will be able to learn more about the destinations and experiences included in the new programme while enjoying a complimentary cream tea.
Everyone who registers in advance will also be entered into a prize draw to win a £200 holiday discount voucher, making it a particularly appealing afternoon for travel enthusiasts.
Seats for the brochure launch are limited, and anyone wishing to attend is asked to email Tracey with their name, address and contact number at sales@eastbournecoaches.co.uk, or call 01323 808080 to reserve a place, and mention this newspaper when calling or emailing.
Eastbourne Coaches is not only focused on great customer service but also on maintaining high professional and regulatory standards. The company is a member of the Road Haulage Association and the Confederation of Passenger Transport, ensuring its operations align with national best practice.
As a holiday provider, it is also fully bonded by British Coach Holidays & ABTOT (The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Ltd), giving customers essential financial protection and peace of mind when booking.
The business is an active member of the Eastbourne Chamber of Commerce, reflecting its strong local roots and commitment to the wider community.
