Things To Do
in Brighton
Brighton is a vibrant seaside city on England's south coast, famous for its pebbled beach, iconic Palace Pier, and a bohemian atmosphere. Its Regency-era lanes overflow with independent shops, cafés, street performances, and a thriving arts scene. The city blends a lively LGBTQ+ culture with family-friendly attractions, museums, and a strong university presence.
Easily reachable from London, Brighton offers a compact, walkable core wrapped in coastal charm.
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 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆Train ticket (city to London or similar) | $15-35 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant seaside culture and accessible city center
- Strong LGBTQ+ and arts scene with varied nightlife
- Compact, walkable streets with diverse dining options
- Proximity to the South Downs and countryside day trips
- Can be crowded and expensive in peak season
- Seafront weather can be breezy and unpredictably rainy
Places to Visit in Brighton
Visit one of these nice places.
Exquisite Indo-Saracenic palace with lavish domes and ornate detailing—great for architectural photography and interiors.
Iconic Victorian pier with amusement arcades, steel arches, and sunset silhouettes over the sea.
Pebbled shorelines and the haunting silhouette of the West Pier ruins offer dramatic seascapes.
Narrow, winding streets with colorful shopfronts and lanterns—perfect for street photography and candid portraits.
Elevated views over the coastline and city; best at golden hour for sweeping cityscapes.
Harbor reflections and yachts against a sky backdrop create clean, modern compositions.
Food in Brighton
Brighton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditionally battered and fried fish with chunky chips, best enjoyed on the seafront or at a classic chippy around town.
Must-Try!
A hearty plate of eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, mushrooms, and toast—perfect to fuel a day of exploring.
A Sussex-influenced twist with smoked haddock, rice, curry spices, and a boiled egg.
A local seaside confection with colorful stripes; a sweet souvenir to enjoy with tea.
Classic afternoon treat featuring scones, clotted cream, and local jam—great with a cup of tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market on London Road offering fresh produce, international street food, and artisanal goods.
Waterfront market with seafood stalls and casual eats, ideal for a breezy lunch.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stand in line and wait your turn; British politeness and patience are valued in pubs, markets, and transit.
Keep noise considerate in quiet zones, and be mindful of personal space during peak times.
Friendly, casual chats are common, but respect local norms around smoking zones and quiet hours in residential areas.
In pubs, you typically order at the bar; tipping is less expected than in restaurants, but appreciated for good service.
Safety
Tipping in Brighton
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; 10-15% in restaurants if service isn’t included; round up or tip in pubs and taxis as you prefer.
Cash is accepted, but contactless and card payments are predominant everywhere, including mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, long daylight hours, crowded seafronts, and outdoor events; stay hydrated and expect lively streets and markets.
Milder temperatures with colorful foliage and fewer crowds; great for coastal walks and museum visits.
Cool to mild climate with occasional rain; festive lights and indoor markets create a cozy atmosphere.
Blooming gardens and city parks; pleasant walking weather and a growing festival calendar.
Brighton at Night
Hiking in Brighton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A long-distance National Trail offering rolling chalk hills and spectacular coastal and landscape views, accessible from nearby towns like Lewes and Hove.
Airports
How to reach Brighton by plane.
Major international airport about 28 miles from Brighton; quick rail or road connections to the city.
Large international hub around 60 miles north; accessible by rail services via London and regional routes.
Approximately 55 miles away; good option for budget carriers and onward train connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population from the University of Brighton and Sussex contributes to a lively, youthful energy in the city.
A diverse mix of visitors and residents, with a strong LGBTQ+ community and a renowned arts culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. play at the Falmer Stadium, drawing local and international fans.
Sussex County Cricket Club plays at the County Ground in Hove, with seasonal matches and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brighton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Brighton has a strong vegetarian and vegan scene; look for veggie tasting menus, dedicated menus, and flexible options at most places.
Many restaurants offer gluten-free crusts, pasta, and clearly labeled dishes; always ask about cross-contamination in pubs and markets.
Dairy-free alternatives are common in cafes and restaurants; request plant-based milks and dairy-free desserts when needed.