Father's Day experiences & how it began

This year, Father's Day is celebrated on Sunday 16th June and offers the excuse to say a big THANK YOU to the fathers or father figures in your life. We see the 16th of June as a reason to honour anybody in your life who may be responsible for being a role model, whether it be for yourself or somebody around you. Around 14% of celebrations last year were directed towards friends or family members to acknowledge their efforts in supporting somebody else, not the gift-giver themselves. 

Whilst the founding Father's Day celebration took place on 5th July 1908, following the Monongah Mine Disaster, this event did not gain national attention (it was felt to be overshadowed by the USA's 4th July celebrations). It is more commonly thought that the first official celebration was on 19th June 1910, when Sonora Dodd, who was raised by her father, was encouraged by a sermon conducted in her local church around Mother's Day to offer a day of recognition to deserving dads. From here, the popularity of the celebration grew, and in 1972, President Richard Nixon made it a public holiday in the USA. Although not a holiday in the UK, we have inherited many of the American customs of presenting a card and gift to fathers on this day. 

No matter who you are celebrating, treat them to a memorable experience at Elite Hotels. With top dining on offer throughout our award-winning restaurants, or an Afternoon Tea for those with a sweet tooth, everything is crafted with care to help you show your gratitude to your loved one. 

For further information about specific events at each hotel, please see below...


Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club
Escape to the Sussex countryside with your Dad and enjoy a relaxing Afternoon. Get comfortable in one of our spacious lounges and enjoy a delicious Afternoon Tea. There is also a special Father’s Day Luncheon on offer in our 2 AA Rosette, award-winning Anderida Restaurant.

Afternoon Tea - £46.00 per person
Three Course Luncheon - £49.00 per person (£21.50 per child) 
Find out more HERE

The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
Let Dad enjoy a traditional 3 course Sunday Roast with all the trimmings in the exquisite Garden Grill. With extended hours unwind and relish a leisurely lunch as a family, while we ensure you experience our 5-star hospitality. 

Three Course Luncheon - £51.00 per person (£25.00 per child)
Find out more HERE

Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens
Treat your dad to a special three-course Father's Day Luncheon in our award-winning Oak Room Restaurant. Gather the whole family together on this day of celebration, with children's entertainment also provided. 

Three Course Luncheon - £52.00 per person (£26.00 per child)
Find out more HERE

Gift Vouchers 

If you can't join us on the 16th, why not give the gift of a voucher? We are pleased to launch an exclusive range of Father's Day Gift Vouchers This thoughtful gesture allows him to enjoy a treat on his next visit. 

Browse our vouchers -

Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club 

The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne

Tylney Hall Hotel