Brighton is a lively city located on the southern coast of England, just an hour by train from London. It is known for its beautiful beaches, unique architecture, and vibrant nightlife. The city has a rich history dating back to the 18th century, when it was a fashionable seaside resort for the wealthy. Today it is a popular tourist destination for people of all ages and backgrounds.
- The 10 Most Important Things to Do in Brighton
- 1. Explore the Royal Pavilion
- 2. Visit Brighton Palace Pier
- 3. Walk along Brighton Marina
- 4. Relax on Brighton Beach
- 5. View from British Airways i360
- 6. The Artists’ Quarter
- 7. Brighton Sea Life Aquarium
- 8. Shopping in The Lanes, Brighton
- 9. Where to Eat and Drink in Brighton
- 10. Where to Stay in Brighton
Brighton first became a landmark destination in the mid-18th century, when English doctors began prescribing sea dips and sips as a cure for all kinds of ailments. Over time, this charming seaside resort became the preferred place for the rich to bathe and relax in wellness. The completion of the Brighton railway in 1840 sealed the deal: with Brighton now a possible day trip from London, it soon became the most attractive tourist magnet.
Now, Brighton’s beaches may no longer be the go-to spot for sun-hungry English people to tan, bathe, and heal (thanks to cheap RyanAir and easyJet flights to Spain and Portugal), but there’s much more to Brighton than just a pebble beach. Today Brighton is considered a hub of the UK’s LGBTQ+ scene, as well as one of the most dynamic and fun destinations in the UK.
If you’re wondering what to do in Brighton, follow this article. From a stunning palace to all the quirkiest seaside attractions, here are the best things to do in Brighton, England.
The 10 Most Important Things to Do in Brighton
Undoubtedly one of the most unusual and beautiful things to do in Brighton is to visit the stunning Royal Pavilion. This Grade I listed 19th-century structure was built in the Indo-Saracenic revival style as a holiday home for George, Prince of Wales (later George IV). The Royal Pavilion is a splendid example of Regency architecture and is one of Brighton’s most famous landmarks. Today visitors can explore the lavish interiors and learn about the building’s history. Most of Brighton features a mix of Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian architecture, so this fabulous palace with onion domes and charming minarets is rather unusual to see with extraordinarily opulent interiors and gardens for a cheerful stroll.
Rain or shine, be sure to book a ticket to see inside, you can book in advance here.
One of Brighton’s most iconic landmarks is the Palace Pier, a Victorian-era pier extending into the sea. The pier hosts a range of attractions, including an amusement park, arcade games, and traditional seafood stalls. Visitors can also stroll along the pier and enjoy the beautiful sea view.
This Grade II listed leisure pier dates back to 1899 and has been synonymous with seaside fun for decades. More than four million people visit the pier every year as it is lined with arcades, rides, restaurants, and cafés.
It’s very crowded in summer, but if you don’t like crowds, you might visit when the weather is cooler. Regardless of the time of year, don’t forget to eat some fish and chips! Since you are so close to the sea, it would be a shame not to.
Brighton Marina is a modern development that houses a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can stroll along the marina and admire luxury yachts and boats. There is also a cinema and a bowling alley, making it the perfect place to spend a rainy day.
Brighton is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for relaxing in the sun or taking a dip in the sea. The most popular beach is Brighton Beach, filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants. Visitors can also take a walk along the famous promenade, offering stunning views of the sea and the city.
Even when the weather isn’t ideal for swimming, there is plenty to explore on and around the promenade, so a walk on the beach is definitely one of the best things to do in Brighton.
Most of the major attractions on the beach are on the west side of Brighton Palace Pier, to the left if you are facing the water. If you head along the beach from that side, you will see Brighton attractions such as the beautifully restored Victorian stage and the Peace Angel statue.
The British Airways i360 is a 162-meter observation tower offering breathtaking views of the city and sea. Visitors can ascend to the top of the tower and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The tower also features a champagne bar and a restaurant, making it the ideal place for a romantic evening.
Forget Ferris wheels; the best way to see Brighton from the sky is on British Airways’ i360! This 162-meter tall observation tower features a circular viewing platform that slowly moves up and down the main “needle” in the center, providing stunning 360-degree views of Brighton. When the weather is clear, you can often see all the way down the English Channel and wave to the Isle of Wight!
There are regularly fun events held inside the observation pod, from yoga to special meals, but it is also super romantic at sunset.
If you love thrills, you can even walk on top by purchasing your ticket in advance to skip the line.
Next to Brighton Pier (on the left/west side) there are a series of art galleries and artists’ studios right on the waterfront, below the main road.
These underground “lofts” are known as Brighton’s Artists’ Quarter, where you can find paintings, sculptures, photographs, jewelry, and more to purchase as souvenirs or gifts. Strolling and chatting with local artists is one of the best things to do in Brighton for art lovers, with most studios opening around noon and closing at sunset.
Additionally, there are a number of nice restaurants and bars to explore after immersing yourself in art, so be sure to add this place to your list of things to do in Brighton.
The Brighton Sea Life Aquarium houses a variety of marine creatures, including sharks, turtles, and seahorses. Visitors can explore the different exhibits and learn about the various species living in the sea. There is also a glass-bottom boat tour offering a unique perspective of the aquarium.
Starting from the door next to the Royal Pavilion is the winding area known as The Lanes, full of an exciting assortment of antique shops, tea rooms, record stores, restaurants, cafes, and pubs.
The Lanes is a maze of narrow streets and alleys hosting a variety of independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. It is the perfect place to find unique gifts, vintage clothing, and artisanal food. Visitors can spend hours wandering the lanes, discovering hidden gems along the way.
Most buildings date from the 16th and 17th centuries when the area was the center of the fishing town. It’s a charming area to stroll or shop, often with street performers entertaining during the summer months.
Be sure to try some of the unusual ice cream flavors at the Brass Monkey in The Lanes!
Brighton is famous for its vibrant food scene, with a variety of restaurants, cafés, and bars to choose from. Among the most popular places to eat and drink in Brighton are Chilli Pickle, offering delicious Indian cuisine, and the Mesmerist, an eclectic cocktail bar.
10. Where to Stay in Brighton
Brighton offers various accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Among Brighton’s most popular places are the Grand Brighton, a splendid Victorian-era hotel located on the seafront, and the Artist Residence, an eclectic boutique hotel in the heart of The Lanes.
Brighton is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, art, or simply relaxing on the beach, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Brighton. Why not plan a trip to this charming seaside city and discover all it has to offer?
