Things To Do
in Brighton
Brighton is a lively seaside city on England's south coast, known for its pebbled and sandy beach, iconic pier, and vibrant cultural scene. It blends historic landmarks like the Royal Pavilion with quirky boutiques and a buzzing arts quarter in the North Laine. The city is renowned for its inclusive, creative vibe, waterfront eateries, and easy access to the South Downs.
Its compact center is highly walkable, making it great for first-time visitors and solo explorers alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Royal Pavilion, where you can admire its stunning Indo-Saracenic architecture. As you stroll through the exotic gardens, take in the lush greenery and seasonal flowers that enhance the beauty of the palace. Don't forget to grab a coffee at the nearby café before delving into the history of this royal retreat.
After exploring the Pavilion, head to the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery to appreciate the diverse collections of art and local history. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase Brighton's rich cultural heritage and enjoy the art displays. For lunch, indulge in traditional fish and chips at a local seaside restaurant with views of the bustling shore.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Brighton seafront, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of the beachfront. Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the Lanes, where you can taste local seafood dishes paired with fine wine. Conclude your day with a visit to a cozy pub for a pint of local ale and some live music.
Kick off your beach day at Brighton Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Rent a paddleboard or kayak, and spend the morning gliding across the sparkling waters of the English Channel. Alternatively, try your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing for an adrenaline rush.
After an exhilarating morning on the water, take a break for lunch at one of the beachside kiosks offering delicious snacks and refreshing drinks. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or enjoying a game of beach volleyball with friends. Feel free to explore the nearby Brighton Palace Pier, with its amusement rides and arcades.
As dusk approaches, settle in for a beachside dinner at one of the popular seafood shacks, savoring fresh catches of the day. Watch the sunset over the horizon as you relax on the beach, soaking in the serene ambiance. Cap off your evening with a stroll along the promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere and perhaps stopping for ice cream.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🍺Pint of beer at a pub | $5-7 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $3-5 |
| 🧁Pastry or snack | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic seafront and historic sights
- Vibrant arts, dining and nightlife
- Walkable city center with diverse neighborhoods
- Access to the South Downs and nature easily from town
- Crowds in peak summer
- Some areas can be touristy and pricey
- Seafront wind can be chilly even in summer
Places to Visit in Brighton
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic seaside architecture with dramatic horizons, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots over the water.
Exquisite Moorish architecture with ornate domes and distinctive silhouettes; best captured from the gardens or surrounding streets.
A modern observation pod offering aerial views of the coastline and cityscape; great for panoramas.
Narrow lanes with quirky shop fronts and pastel walls perfect for street photography and candid moments.
Dramatic white cliffs and rolling sea; best photographed from Birling Gap or Belle Tout sides at golden hour.
Pebbled shore, silhouettes of surfers and fishing boats with warm light on the water.
Food in Brighton
Brighton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Classic seaside staple; look for flaky white fish and crisp chips at seafront chippies or pubs with seaside views.
Must-Try!
A traditional steamed suet crust pudding with a center of butter, sugar, and suet, best enjoyed warm with custard or cream.
A selection of local seafood such as oysters, prawns, and crab, often available at waterfront restaurants and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
London Road market offering fresh produce, cheeses, pastries, and small bites from local traders.
Seasonal stalls and trucks along the promenade offering diverse, quick meals with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British culture values orderly queues; join the back and wait your turn patiently in shops, cafes, and transport hubs.
Be polite and respectful in trains and buses; quiet conversations are preferred on public transport.
ID is commonly requested when purchasing alcohol; tipping is modest and appreciation is shown with a simple 'thanks'.
Safety
Tipping in Brighton
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a service charge may be included; if not, leaving 10-15% for good service is typical. In pubs and casual spots, rounding up is appreciated but not required.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful in smaller venues and markets. ATMs are common in central Brighton.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, long daylight hours, and busy seafronts; expect crowds near the pier and beaches; carry water, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler evenings by the water.
Mild to cool with changing leaves and quicker showers; ideal for city strolls, markets, and coastal walks with fewer crowds.
Cold, windy, and potentially rainy; the seafront feels atmospheric, and indoor venues—cafes, theatres, and pubs—offer cozy escapes.
Blossom and longer days; great for photography along the seafront and Nice weather for South Downs walks.
Brighton at Night
Hiking in Brighton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dramatic chalk cliffs and river valley; easy to moderate trails with scenic coastal views.
Long-distance path offering panoramic countryside and countryside trails near Brighton.
A chalk escarpment with expansive views over the city and countryside; popular for hikes and sunset walks.
Airports
How to reach Brighton by plane.
Major international airport about 28 miles from Brighton; rail and road connections are straightforward.
Large international hub approximately 60 miles away; frequent trains to London then onward to Brighton.
City airport offering short-haul flights; accessible to Brighton via rail routes through London.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Two universities contribute a vibrant student community and research activity.
Brighton is renowned for its inclusive, diverse nightlife and events, with a strong LGBTQ+ presence.
A cosmopolitan mix with family-friendly attractions along the seafront and in parks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Brighton & Hove Albion FC play in the Premier League; matchdays attract large crowds and a lively atmosphere.
Sussex County Cricket Club plays at the County Ground in Hove; summer matches are a local tradition.
Coastal location supports sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, and paddleboarding for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brighton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Brighton has many vegetarian-friendly restaurants and clearly labeled options; look for menus that emphasize vegetables, pulses, and plant-based proteins. In mixed-cuisine spots, ask about dairy-free and egg-free alternatives and inform staff about any allergies.