An easy train ride from London, Brighton is both a great day trip but also deserves a longer stay as well.
1. LOCATION
Brighton is a seaside town located on the south coast of England, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, historic architecture, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, there’s plenty to see and do in Brighton to make your trip truly memorable.
2. A ROYAL HISTORY
One of the most popular things to do in Brighton is to visit the Royal Pavilion. This historic palace, built in the 18th century, was once the residence of King George IV and is known for its exotic Indian-inspired architecture and beautiful gardens. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace to learn about its history and to see the opulent interiors, including the famous Music Room, which features a ceiling painted with Chinese-inspired designs.
3. BRIGHTON PIER
Another must-see attraction in Brighton is the Brighton Pier. This iconic pier, which is over 1,000 feet long, is a great place to stroll, enjoy the sea views, and ride the amusement park rides. Visitors can also visit the pier’s aquarium and arcade, and sample some traditional seaside treats such as fish and chips and ice cream.
4. GREAT ART
For art lovers, Brighton is home to the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which features a wide range of art and artifacts from around the world, including works by local artists and a collection of decorative arts. The museum also features a number of interactive exhibits and activities, making it a great place to visit with children.
5. HISTORICAL BUILDINGS
For those interested in history, Brighton is home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Brighton Dome, a former royal palace that is now a concert hall and arts center, and the Brighton Lanes, a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with independent shops, cafes, and pubs. Visitors can also take a walking tour of the city’s historic architecture, including the Regency-style buildings that line the seafront.
6. NIGHTLIFE
Brighton is also known for its lively nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Visitors can enjoy a pint of local ale in one of the city’s traditional pubs, or dance the night away in one of Brighton’s famous clubs, such as the Coalition or the Concorde 2. For a more laid-back evening, visitors can enjoy a show at the Theatre Royal, which features a wide range of live performances, including drama, comedy, and music.
7. SHOPPING
For a unique shopping experience, visitors can head to the North Laine, a vibrant neighborhood in the center of Brighton that is known for its independent shops, vintage clothing stores, and artisanal food markets. Visitors can also head to the Open Market, which is located in the heart of the city and features a wide range of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
8. PARKS & GARDENS
Brighton is also home to a number of beautiful parks and gardens, including the Preston Park, which features an Italianate garden, a lake, and a Victorian rock garden, and the Queen’s Park, which is home to a playground, a bandstand, and a café. Visitors can also take a stroll along the Brighton seafront and enjoy the views of the sea and the famous Brighton Beach huts.
9. WATER SPORTS
For a more active experience, visitors can head to the Brighton Marina, which is home to a range of water sports and activities, including sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also head to the South Downs, which is a beautiful area of countryside located just outside the city, and offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding.
10. THE BRIGHTON WHEEL
Finally, for a truly unique experience, visitors can take a ride on the Brighton Wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.