
Eastbourne’s Royal Hippodrome will stage Dick Whittington this Christmas, following Dick and his cat on the journey to London. Public family performances begin on Friday 11 December 2026, with the run continuing to 3 January 2027.
The theatre’s overall listing starts on 7 December, but the first four dates are school performances. That distinction matters for families comparing opening dates.

At a glance
| Where | Royal Hippodrome Theatre |
|---|---|
| When | Public family performances 11 December 2026 to 3 January 2027 |
| Tickets | Opening night £12; other public dates have different rates |
What is the production?
Dick’s search for his fortune and encounter with a villainous rat form the story, with songs and audience participation promised by the theatre.
A relaxed performance is scheduled for Sunday 27 December at 11am. Families considering that show should check its arrangements directly with the box office.
Tickets and access performances
Opening night is listed at £12. Standard adult prices vary between the subsequent price bands, with concessions and family options also offered. The separate adults-only show is on Thursday 17 December at 8pm and is restricted to over-18s.
Santa’s grotto is an optional £8 add-on before pre-Christmas performances, including a present. The theatre asks grotto visitors to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show.
Before booking
Check the performance details
The 17 December adult performance is not the family pantomime. Check the date and age restriction carefully when choosing tickets.
How to get there
Address: Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Seaside Road, Eastbourne.
The theatre estimates a 10–15-minute walk from Eastbourne station. It has no dedicated car park; the travel page points to Trinity Place and surrounding on-street spaces. Check current charges and restrictions rather than assuming a theatre ticket includes parking.
Check the venue and visitor information.
Planning another outing
- The Beacon, Eastbourne for a separate daytime visit; check the location and opening times against your performance.
- Sussex Christmas markets for festive shopping; event dates vary.
- Sussex Christmas light trails for other seasonal outings and their booking requirements.









































