The De la Warr Pavilion must be the architectural centrepiece of Bexhill on Sea and the surrounding area. It was years in the planning, but actually constructed within one year, 1935. The design houses the post modernist era of the 1920s. After only five years it was in decline. Taken over by the military during the Second World War, and then handed over to Bexhill/Rother Council to use and maintain. Over the years, with lack of investment the building fell into disrepair, even at one time been used for a indoor car boot sale. 1986 saw a turning point as it obtained a grade 1 planning listing, it was another 10 years before funding was secured to refurbish the building. The Heritage lottery funded £6 million refurbishment, and it took another three years before the building was open again to the public in 2005. It is now run by The De la Warr Pavilion charitable trust, whose president is Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. Much of the current funding is provided by the British Arts Council, and displays exhibitions all year. Other income includes concert nights enjoyed by many from far afield. Upstairs there is a great café with lots of seating space including armchairs for the loungers.You can also sit outside on the balcony and enjoy the view towards Eastbourne and Beachy Head.