travellers in brighton

Brighton Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Brighton is a seaside resort town on the southern coast of England that’s known for being quirky, bohemian, artsy, and very LGBTQ-friendly. It’s an extremely popular place to visit in the summer.

I really like this town — even during the summer when it gets crowded!

Considered the hippest city in the UK, Brighton comes to life during the summer with festivals and events. There’s a lot to do here beyond just going to the beach or shows and I think people really miss out on the charm of the city when they just focus on those two things. Brighton is actually a fun year-round destination for anyone looking for a short trip from London .

This travel guide to Brighton will help you plan a fun, affordable, and off-the-beaten-path visit to this underrated city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Brighton

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Brighton

1. Wander Brighton Pier

Brighton’s most famous attraction, the Brighton Palace Pier is a great place for a stroll. It’s particularly beautiful during sunset and sunrise. There has been a pier here since 1823 but the pier in its current form opened in 1899. It has been through both world wars as well as many, many storms (some of which destroyed the previous versions). During the day, lots of people come and hang out at the arcades, ride the rides, and restaurants. It’s great for relaxing and people-watching. At night, it’s lit up with 67,000 lights which makes for a pretty cool spectacle.

2. Visit the Royal Pavilion

Completed in 1823 for King George IV, the Royal Pavilion is Brighton’s most iconic building. Although King George was only able to visit the Royal Pavilion twice, it was often used as a royal summer home and, during World War II, it was transformed into a military hospital. Many of the rooms, including the banqueting room, the kitchen, the saloon, the music room, and three bedrooms have been restored to reflect how it would have looked during the Regency era. There’s also a pretty garden in front that you can visit for free to get photos of the exterior. Admission is 17 GBP and includes unlimited return visits for one year.

3. Spend time at Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach can get touristy and crowded in the summer, but it’s the best place to swim (be warned, the water is never warm!) and get some sun. It’s a pebbly beach but there’s plenty to do with lots of watersports in the sea, the nearby Pier, and a selection of shops and cafés. At the western end of Brighton Beach, near Hove Beach, there is a colorful row of beach huts perfect for some Insta-worthy pictures and a 4-mile (6-kilometer) promenade that’s great for a stroll with nice views.

4. Day trip to Seven Sisters Country Park

Located within the South Downs National Park, the Seven Sisters Country Park is a great place for a quiet afternoon in nature, with an abundance of flora and fauna. The park includes a number of chalk cliffs (almost 700 acres’ worth) that run right up to the seaside. You can find several walking trails as well as cycling, canoeing, and paddle boarding options here. Admission is free.

5. Hike Devil’s Dyke

The largest dyke in the UK, this mile-long valley is part of the Southern England chalk formation and offers panoramic views across the South Downs. The rare chalk grassland is home to beautiful wildlife, from birds to butterflies, that you can see while hiking or cycling across one of the area’s many bridleways (trails). Devil’s Dyke history dates back to the Stone Age and you can see everything from the remnants of an Iron Age hillfort to the remains of a Victorian funfair. In recent years, it has become a popular spot for hang gliding. It’s only accessible by car and parking costs 6 GBP per day.

Other Things to See and Do in Brighton

1. explore the city through the eyes of a local.

Brighton Greeters is a free program that connects visitors with a volunteer local guide. You’ll spend two hours with a guide who will take you around the city on a personalized tour. It’s a unique way to see Brighton and a cool way to connect with an insider. It’s best to book early on in your visit so that you can get plenty of local tips for the rest of your trip. I can’t recommend it enough!

2. See contemporary art at Fabrica Gallery

Located in a former Regency church, this artist-run visual art gallery is free to visit and a wonderful spot for afternoon inspiration. Exhibitions change several times a year and, in the past, have included video installations, contemporary photography exhibits, and large sculpture works. It’s only open for special exhibitions, so visit their website for a schedule of shows. If you visit on a weekend, you can also pop into their new café for a drink and snack.

3. Take a break at St. Ann’s Well Gardens

A beautiful and expansive park near the Hove seafront, St. Ann’s Well Gardens is named after its chalybeate spring (a spring with a heavy concentration of iron in the water). Legend has it that the spring’s waters are the tears of a woman named Annafrieda, shed after she learned that her lover had been murdered. The park has tennis courts, a children’s play area, and numerous local and exotic trees. There’s a small garden café in the park too.

4. Explore under the sea

First founded in 1871, Sea Life Center is the world’s oldest operating aquarium. The aquarium’s star attraction is the new Day & Night exhibition, which includes a 24-hour window into what life in a coral reef looks like, featuring Black Tip Reef Sharks and stingrays. As you walk through the Day & Night aquarium, the lighting changes so you can see different species living in different environments. Other experiences include exploring the Rainforest Adventure zone and riding on an indoor glass-bottom boat (requires a separate ticket). Admission starts at 17 GBP if you book online two or more days in advance.

5. Attend Brighton Festival

Every May, Brighton puts on the second-largest art festival in Great Britain, with music, theater, dance, art, and more across around 35 different venues across the town. Tens of thousands of people attend the event so make sure you book accommodation in advance. Some events are free, while others cost between 5-40 GBP.

6. Attend a special event at the Brighton Centre

The Brighton Centre is a huge conference and exhibition center designed in the Brutalist style. Located right on the waterfront, this is where they hold big-name concerts, comedy shows, theater and dance performances, and special events. Check out the calendar to find out what’s on or stop in to see if there are any day-of tickets available. Prices start at around 25 GBP.

7. Get lost in the Brighton Toy & Model Museum

For something a little unusual, the Toy & Model Museum is a fun escape. Located underneath the central train station, this museum has over 10,000 items in its collection, including working toy trains, vintage toys, and 20th-century packaging and advertisements. It’s quirky but also super interesting. Admission is 7 GBP.

8. Party in Kemptown

Brighton is unofficially known as the queer capital of the UK, and most of the gay and lesbian nightlife is in the Kemptown neighborhood along St. James Street. Just a few blocks from Brighton Pier, there are many great LGBTQ-owned bars, venues, and clubs here. The Charles Street Tap is a long-running gay bar with pub nights and pop music blasting on the TV screens, while The Queens Arms is a small venue with daily cabaret shows. If you’re looking to belt some music, Bar Broadway welcomes everyone for show tunes with sing-a-longs.

9. Enjoy panoramic views from the Brighton i360

Opened in 2016, this is one of Brighton’s newest attractions. The i360 tower stands 162 meters (53 feet) tall and is located at the foot of the former West Pier. Designed by the team behind the London Eye, it cost 46 million GBP to build and offers panoramic views over Brighton. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Isle of Wight some 40 miles (64 kilometers) away. The experience takes less than 30 minutes and costs 17.95 GBP.

10. Shop in the Lanes

The Lanes are a famous spot to catch a glimpse of that hippie Brighton vibe. This area is a collection of narrow streets and alleys, or lanes, with lots of independent small shops, restaurants, and street art. Look for the North Lane Bazaar shopping streets and just poke around the different shops for souvenirs.

11. Attend Brighton & Hove Pride

Held annually over a weekend in August, Brighton’s Pride event is internationally recognized as one of the best in the world with a huge parade, peaceful demonstrations, and community fundraising. Tickets to the Fabuloso event start at 28.50 for one day (the weekend tickets start at 48.50 GBP), there’s a village party and you can camp all weekend.

For more information on other cities in England, check out these guides:

• Bath Travel Guide
• Bristol Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• London Travel Guide
• Manchester Travel Guide
• Oxford Travel Guide

Brighton Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A dorm with 4-8 beds costs 23-38 GBP per night while dorms with 10-12 beds start at 19 GBP. Private rooms start around 60 GBP. Prices can be up to two times higher during the summer. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels have either self-catering facilities or free breakfast.

Since Brighton is surrounded by a national park, there are also plenty of camping options available in the area. For a basic tent plot, expect to pay around 20 GBP per night for a pitch without electricity (there’s not great availability in the off-season).

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels start at 60 GBP per night (100 GBP in summer). Expect basic amenities like TV, coffee/tea makers, and AC.

There are also lots of Airbnb options in Brighton. Private rooms start at 50-65 GBP per night, while a full apartment averages 100-125 GBP per night. Prices can double when not booked in advance, so book early.

Food – While British cuisine has evolved in leaps and bounds due to immigration (and colonialism), it’s still very much a meat and potatoes country. Fish and chips remain a popular staple for both lunch and dinner while roasted and stewed meats, sausages, meat pies, and the quintessential Yorkshire pudding are all common options as well. Curry (and other Indian dishes, such as tikka masala), are super popular too.

You can find kebabs for about 5 GBP while fish and chips cost around 8-10 GBP. Indian lunch specials are around 10 GBP. Burritos and sandwiches cost 5-9 GBP, pizza starts at 8-10 GBP, and a fast food combo (think McDonald’s) is around 6 GBP.

For an inexpensive meal at a pub or restaurant, expect to pay between 12-16 GBP for a main course, while a pint of beer costs around 5 GBP. Sunday roasts (13-15 GBP) are a well-known tradition in Brighton, like most of the United Kingdom. Usually served with lots of vegetables, this is a hearty way to end your week. A 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs from 30 GBP.

Some good places for a roast are The Royal Sovereign Pub, The Dover Castle, and The Dorset Bar & Restaurant.

A latte or cappuccino costs around 3 GBP while bottled water is 1.25 GBP.

A week’s worth of basic groceries costs between 40-55 GBP. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, vegetables, and some meat. The best places to buy cheap groceries are Lidl, Aldi, Sainsbury’s, and Tesco.

Backpacking Brighton Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Brighton, expect to spend around 60 GBP per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, walking and using public transit to get around, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, and doing mostly free activities like walking tours and hanging out at the beach. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 GBP to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of about 130 GBP per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or private Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap pubs and fast food joints, have a couple of drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visit the Sea Life Center and the Toy Museum.

On a “luxury” budget of 255 GBP or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do as many activities and tours as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GBP.

Brighton Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While the UK is one of the most expensive countries in the world, Brighton is more affordable than other cities thanks to its cheap pubs, public parks, free beaches, and affordable hostels. Here are my top ways to save money when you visit Brighton:

• Visit the parks and gardens – Brighton has numerous parks and gardens that are beautiful to explore during the summer months. Best of all, they’re free!
• Buy an all-day bus ticket – If you need to use the public buses to get around, save money by getting an all-day bus pass for 5 GBP. It’s the cheapest way to get around.
• Eat cheap – If you are going to eat out, stick to fish and chips and other pub foods. While it’s not the healthiest option, it’s the most budget-friendly. For further savings, book accommodation with a kitchen and cook for yourself.
• Relax at the beach – Sunday is beach day and the Brighton Pier and Brighton Beach attract tourists and day-trippers from the surrounding area. Wander around and take in the scene for free.
• Take a free walking tour – If you want to get a better feel for the city, be sure to take a free walking tour. They only last a couple of hours and are a great way to engage with the city’s history. Both Real Brighton Tours and Brighton Greeters have excellent guides and cover all the highlights.
• Stay with a local – If you’re on a budget, use Couchsurfing to stay with a local for free. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to cut costs while connecting with a local who can share their insider tips and advice.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Brighton

As a relatively popular weekend destination, Brighton has a few budget-friendly accommodation options. Here are my suggested places to stay in Brighton:

• Seadragon Backpackers
• Selina Brighton
• HAPPY Brighton
• YHA Brighton

How to Get Around Brighton

Public transportation – The best way to get around Brighton, especially if you stick to the central area, is by foot. The city is relatively compact and everything is easy to reach. However, there is an extensive bus network through Brighton and Hove to get around if you need it.

The easiest way to buy bus tickets is through the Brighton & Hove bus app. A ticket valid for 60 minutes costs 2.80 GBP. If you’re going to use the bus a lot, you can get a citySAVER day pass for 5 GBP (5.50 GBP if you want to use the night buses). You can also buy 2-,3-,4- and 7-day passes. Tickets can also be bought on the bus or in advance through pay stations and shops around the city.

Bicycle – Brighton is a very bike-friendly city, and in fact, Cycling England chose it as one of six Cycling Demonstration Towns to encourage and promote cycling. Brighton’s public bike-sharing program is BTN BikeShare and you can find docking stations all over the city. Unlock a bike for 1 GBP and then it’s just 4p/minute.

Bike rentals from private companies start at around 25 GBP per day.

Taxi – Taxis cost 2.80 GBP to start and then 2.20 GBP per mile. Given how expensive they are, I wouldn’t take one unless absolutely necessary.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Brighton but, again, walking or cycling is the easiest way to get around the city on a budget.

Car rentals – You don’t need a car to explore the city, however, it might be helpful if you want to explore the region. Car rentals can be found for as little as 20 GBP per day for a multi-day rental. Keep in mind driving is on the left and that most cars have a manual transmission. Drivers need to be at least 21 to rent a car.

When to Go to Brighton

Summer is peak tourism season in Brighton and temperatures are the warmest during this time — but rarely are they ever above 27°C (80°F). Brighton is bursting at the seams during the summer and the city offers a fun, lively atmosphere thanks to the many seaside attractions. People make the most of the warm weather and there are constantly tons of events and festivals happening. Prices are a little higher so be sure to book early to save money and secure your spot (accommodation can sell out when festivals are happening).

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are also fantastic times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the crowds have thinned out. It’s still warm enough to hike and explore though you won’t be able to hit the beach. Expect a little rain.

Winter lasts from December to February, and tourism crowds thin out drastically during this time. Temperatures rarely dip below 3°C (37°F), and prices are slightly lower as well. While it’s a fine time to visit, I would try to aim for the shoulder season or summer instead just to beat the grey winter weather.

How to Stay Safe in Brighton

Brighton is safe and the risk of violent crime here is low. Scams and pickpocketing can occur around high-traffic areas, especially around tourist attractions like the Pier and Brighton Beach. Pickpockets tend to work in teams so stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Always keep your valuables secure and out of sight.

Avoid leaving your belongings unattended on the beach as bags and purses can get swiped. If you’re out enjoying the nightlife in Brighton, keep your belongings close to deter potential pickpockets and always keep an eye on your drink.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, however, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Brighton Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Brighton Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling England and continue planning your trip:

The 14 Best Things to Do in Bristol

Where to Stay in London: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 8 Best Hostels in London

How to Spend a Week in London

The 9 Best Walking Tour Companies in London

70+ Free Things to Do in London

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Brighton

Brighton,  England is a fantastic place for solo travellers. It is quite small so it is very easy to get around. You can walk to most places and it feels quite safe. If you want to meet others there are lots of bars and cafes or you can just hang out by the beach and start chatting to locals. If you are planning on traveling to Brighton, discover places to go in Brighton as a solo, where to stay and things to do in Brighton at night with our short Brighton guide. 

N.b. By booking through this page you are helping to improve the lives of vulnerable girls about the globe. Thanks for helping.

• Taking a Solo Trip to Brighton

About Brighton

• 48 Hours in Brighton

Top Things To See in Brighton

Brighton sightseeing, brighton activities for all solos, brighton tours, where to meet others, things to do in the evening in brighton.

• Where To Eat in Brighton

Accommodation in Brighton

Getting around brighton, how to get to brighton.

Brighton Pier and beach

Taking a Solo Trip To Brighton

Is Brighton safe for solos? Yes, but as anywhere you do need to be careful at night. Avoid the lower promenade in the evening when by yourself.  Choose accommodation as close as you can to the Lanes and North Laines, one of the famous places in Brighton. This is the area where you will most likely be in the evening so make sure it is easy to get back to where you are staying and that any walking will be done in a busy area.

Stay For: Is Brighton worth visiting? Yes, stay for 2 or 3 nights if you would like to explore the South Downs and/or do some of the more adventurous activities listed in the guide. Brighton is a perfect day trip from London. Plan to arrive at about 10:00  and leave around 16:00

Did You Know?  That Brighton is the unofficial LGBTQ capital of the UK? It holds one of the biggest Pride festivals in the UK, often attracting more than 160,000 people.

Situated in East Sussex, Brighton in the United Kingdom is the quintessential English seaside town. It is only one hour by train from central London making it one of the easiest and loveliest day trips you can take from London. The city centres around the seafront and the shopping and dining area known as The Lanes and North Laine. Brighton is known for its slightly alternative and innovative independent restaurants and shops.

Brighton and nearby Hove merged to become one city in 2000. Hove is one of the places to visit near Brighton and is Brighton’s slightly quieter neighbour. It is here that you will see the famous beach huts and the best collection of Regency Architecture. Nearby Rottingdean is also worth a visit.

The city is quite compact and can easily be explored on foot. The key tourism sights of the Brighton Pavilion, Brighton Pier and the British Airways i360 are an easy stroll from each other. You will also find fish and chips restaurants at least every 500 metres as well as extremely appealing bakeries!

There are many activities available for those seeking something more active. From the many local yoga studios to sea kayaking to walking the lovely South Downs you can work off the calories of those delicious meals during the day!

You can get through the main sights in Brighton in a day trip from London. But to explore a bit more and experience the real Brighton look to stay 1-2 nights – you won’t regret it!  Brighton has a great tourism website that is well worth checking out before you go.

48 hours in Brighton

If you're looking for a Brighton one day itinerary, I have covered a 48 hour Brighton itinerary here. Just choose which day you prefer for 24 hours in Brighton. Hop on a train down to Brighton out of London Victoria. Once you arrive head to Grow 40 for a late morning coffee and some brunch.

Wander over to the stunning Royal Pavilion and marvel at the eastern style stunning architecture in this typical British seaside town. Enjoy the garden in front of the main entrance, which is great in the foreground of photos! Make sure you walk around the back of the Pavilion as well for some different styles of photographs, at one of the most popular attractions at Brighton UK. 

Once you have had your fill head to the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery which is conveniently located nearly next door to the Pavilion. After exploring the museum and its great gift shop walk down to the seafront and grab some fish and chips at The Regency for a late lunch.

Walk off your fish and chips by strolling down the seafront to Hove and checking out the famous beach huts and some of the Regency architecture on Brunswick Square.

Walk back to Brighton Pier. Wander down the pier and try your hand at some of the amusement parlours and get some old fashioned photos, one of the Brighton fun things to do. If you have any room grab some cotton candy. Discover Brighton Pier history here

If you are only in Brighton for the day, head to the nearby Tempest Inn to watch the sunset with a drink. Grab an Indian after at the modern Indian Summer restaurant in the Lanes.

The Following Day

The next morning head to The Flour Pot for some great coffee and breakfast. Then spend the next couple of hours exploring the Lanes and North Laines. Don’t miss Snoopers Paradise for every type of vintage article you could imagine. Combine this with checking out some of Brighton’s street art – most of which is located in the Lanes.

There are lots of places to visit in Brighton, but there are activities near Brighton too! Hire a bike and cycle down to Rottingdean. Have a wander around Rudyard Kipling’s home town then grab some authentic fish and chips at Smuggler’s and eat it sitting on the beach. Cycle back to Brighton and hire a stripy deck chair and have a well-earned rest in the sun whilst contemplating your Brighton visit. 

Once rested join a Brighton Bar Crawl or head to one of Brighton’s wine bars for a tasting. If you’re not much of a drinker finish off with a lovely dinner sitting outside at Brighton’s newest restaurant Pascere. If it is a big night I’ll leave you to find some late-night snacks in the Lanes!

1. Royal Pavilion  

This stunning building looks like someone went to Istanbul and cut and pasted one of its buildings into Brighton! If you're wondering ‘what is Brighton famous for?' Architect John Nash turned this seaside palace into one of Britains’ most famous buildings. There are furnishings and works of art inside – as well as some lovely tea rooms. However, the building itself is the star so this is one place you could save some money on (eg don’t go inside) and still capture the essence of the experience. The Royal Pavilion is a Brighton must-see. 

Cost = Entry fee – £13 – 10% reduction if purchased online ahead of time.

Time = 2 hours

2. The Lanes and North Laine

Things to do in the Lanes Brighton – These lovely little streets are the heart of Brighton. They are populated with shops, galleries, markets, pop-ups, restaurants, bars, vintage shops etc. They do tend towards more independent owners in the heart of the Lanes which makes for lots of interesting shops and food experiences.

Cost =  Free.

Time = 2-3 hours depending on how much of a shopper you are!

3. Brighton Palace Pier

You cannot leave Brighton without having a walk down the iconic Brighton Pier! Every sense will be assaulted by the smell of the sea, the sound of the fair, the many amusements – all served at high volume! Have a game of Dolphin Derby and/or try one of the rides. Don’t forget to get a photo where you stick your head through one of the classic beachside frames. If you're wondering what to do in Brighton on a rainy day, you can take cover at the pier, one of the attractions at Brighton. 

Cost = Free.

Time = depending on whether or not you purchase amusements! 1 -2 hours.

4. Clifftop walk between Brighton pier and Rottingdean

There are two options on how to walk along this beautiful path. You can take the clifftop walk for more spectacular scenery or you can walk along the beachfront to savour the smells and sounds of the sea and the Brighton beaches. The white cliffs are very photogenic and one of the things to do in Brighton England if you love hiking.

Time = 90 minutes to walk o r hire a bike and cycle there in 30 minutes.

5. Brighton Beach

Having said you cannot leave Brighton without walking down the pier, one of the best things to do in Brighton beach.  I am going to have to add in the same for the Beach! The first thing to know about Brighton Beach is that even though it is called a beach it does not have any sand; it has pebbles so you definitely want shoes! It also means there is a booming business in renting out deck chairs etc as lying on pebbles is not a comfortable experience!

You can either walk along the beach – there is an easy path that is dotted with bars, museums and restaurants – or stop and enjoy the beach.

Cost = Free to enjoy, Item hire starts at £2.50.

Time = Minimum is 30 minutes if you’re in a rush – could be all afternoon if it’s a nice day!

Escape the crowds –  by visiting Brighton mid-week or by spending some time in nearby Hove. Head towards Church Road for shopping and some great cafes and restaurants in Hove.

Lose yourself  – in the Lanes and North Laine. These lovely streets can be explored for hours and are one of the Brighton places to see. Or once you’ve visited the Pavilion and the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery have a wander and a relax in the beautifully tended Royal Pavilion Gardens.

Get a Great View

• On the clifftop walk between Brighton Pier and Rottingdean
• Visit one of the pubs along the seafront for sunset views over the Pier and the burnt down Pier. The aptly named The Setting Sun is a good option! 
• Head up the British Airways i360 for amazing views over Brighton and the English Channel 
• Rottingdean Hill provides great views of the Brighton CityScape.

Interact with the locals  – by having a drink! Head to one of the many wine bars in the Lanes – locals and tourists alike all frequent the many restaurants and bars in the area.

Places to enjoy the sun –  Brighton Beach and a deck chair is the most obvious option. However, it does get crowded so jump on a bike or have a big walk and head to Rottingdean or to Hove for some more beach room.

Pubs line the seafront, particularly near Brighton Pier. Most have outdoor drinking areas that are perfect for enjoying the sun.

Solo Tips: As a solo traveller you could easily give Brighton Marina a miss. It has a lot of restaurants but they are all chain restaurants you could find anywhere in the UK. There isn’t a lot there. It is probably a good spot if you have kids but as a solo traveller I would spend my time around the Laines.

The Volks Railway is a small railway that runs along the seafront from Brighton Pier to Rottingdean.

Adventure GatG

• Try some sea kayaking and/or canoeing with BK Kayaking from 40 pounds   
• Enjoy the beach with some beach volleyball. Yellowave beach sports has 6 courts and a café! Prices start with a one hour lesson for £5.50.       
• Or why not try some stand-up paddleboarding with Brighton water sports? 
• Brighton UK is a fantastic spot for the arty GatG! Let’s start with its vibrant Street Art scene. You can do a guided tour – but why not use the fantastic guide that Brighton Tourism has done to find the best street art and explore Brighton at the same time?    
• Galleries are everywhere in Brighton – particularly in The Lanes and North Laine and along the seafront. 
• Visit the Brighton Dome, the city's arts venue. Inside is a theatre, a concert hall and the Corn Exchange.
• The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery cover an eclectic mix of art.
• The Booth Museum of Natural History is for museum lovers with more than half a million specimens under its roof.
• For photographers head down to the Hove beach hut for some shots.

Budget GatG

Things to do in Brighton for free:

• Brighton Pier is free to stroll.
• Walk from Brighton Pier to Rottingdean
• Wander the Lanes
• Visit the Street Art using the Brighton Tourism guide.

Cultural GatG

Brighton is famous for its wonderful examples of Regency Architecture. The streets around Brunswick Square, Hove have some of the best examples as does the Royal Crescent in Brighton.

Check out the Duke of York Picture House, an art-house cinema where you can enjoy a glass of wine with your movie in a beautiful art deco style building. It lays claim to being the oldest continuously running cinema in Britain. The cinema is in the Lanes and easy to spot as it has a pair of Can-Can legs jutting out from the building!

The Theatre Royal in the Lanes has many big theatrical productions. Many west end shows have a run down here. Make sure you check online ahead of your trip to get the best tickets and deals.

Brighton at night

Festival GatG

Brighton loves a festival! Here are some of the key ones:

• Brighton Festival – 3 weeks in May.
• Brighton Fringe – May.
• Kemp Town Carnival – June and free.
• St Ann’s Well Gardens Spring Festival – May and free.
• Brighton Naked Bike Ride!
• The Beach of the zombie's zombie march – October.
• Gay Pride – August.

History GatG

• The Royal Pavilion is the key history must-see in Brighton. Brighton also has other historic buildings such as Preston Manor , a typical Edwardian Country House where collections are on show
• A little further from Brighton in distance is the Bloomsbury style home Charleston . The house also has a permanent collection as well as hosting exhibitions relevant to the era 
• Brighton also has several churches with St Joseph’s being perhaps the most impressive from an architectural point of view.

Nature GatG

South Downs National Park is a bus ride away and one of the popular days out in Brighton. This beautiful area is perfect for a long walk or off-road cycling. For solo GATGs local company So Sussex runs guided activities in the countryside. You can do anything from fishing to cycling to walking – all of which can be combined with some delicious local food! 

If you’re after something a bit different why not give Mackerel Fishing a shot? 

Shopping GatG

The Lanes and North Laines are a shopper’s paradise! They are particularly good if you like to find new and interesting independent shops.

Snoopers Paradise is a treasure trove of vintage goodies. You could get lost in here! It is quite a big store so take a watch as you could easily lose all track of time!   https://snoopers-paradise.com/

Or try one of the UK’s last standing fragrance houses the wonderfully named Pecksniffs Fragrance House. https://www.pecksniffs.com/brighton-boutique

The area is also known for its selection of adult shops! She Said Erotic Boutique is on the more female end of the spectrum here. https://www.shesaidboutique.com/

Finally, Brighton has such a sweet tooth and some fantastic store that are all about treats. The two best to try are Roly’s Fudge Pantry and the fabulously named ChoccyWoccyDoodah.

Wellness GatG

There are many yoga studios in Brighton and most allow drop-ins. Wander the lanes and you will come across loads of them – and you won’t go wrong with Yoga Haven . 

For spas try:  Little Jasmine,  The Treatment Rooms  or  Relaxstation     

Wine snug at Grow 40 Restaurant and Bar

The 2 best wine bars in town are: Ten Green Bottles and   Fourth and Church .  Both hold regular wine tastings and are another great way to meet people. There are also several wineries near Brighton:  Court Garden ,  Albourne Estate ,    Rathfinny wine estates,  Bluebell Vineyard estates,  Ridgeview Wine estates       

Have a Tourist Moment   – on the British Airways i360 to get some great photos. It's one of the best Brighton attractions. Or visit the Brighton Toy and Model Museum, one of the World's best toy museums. There are plenty of tourist attractions in Brighton to see.

Don’t have much time? Head to the beach and see Brighton Pier, one of the fun things to do in Brighton UK, walk to the Pavilion and circle it but don’t go inside and then grab a quick bite in the Lanes. The Brighton Pier attractions are open from 11:00 to 17:00 between October to March, and 10:00 to 22:00 April to October. 

Where to wear your heels – Brighton doesn’t have many occasions where you need to wear your heels. You could pretty much wear flip flops anywhere! But heading to a nice wine bar in the Lanes or to one of Brighton’s top restaurants will let you justify packing them!

From heritage & culture tours Brighton Blue Badge Guides is a good option for a walking tour in Brighton. They conform to a national standard and offer different tours. For something more relaxed try one of the many Brighton Walking Tours on Offer. Check out the Secrets of the Lanes walking tour.

Day Tours – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated Brighton activities and Brighton tours. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people but there are several to book as a solo. Choose from an admission ticket to the Royal Pavillion Brighton, a visit to the British Airways i360, or a Grand Brighton bike tour. They also offer full-day tours from Brighton UK to Stonehenge and Bath, Cambridge, and London, or you could book a Brighton to Seven Sisters tour including the South Downs. 

* Check all tours, prices and availability for Brighton  

Brighton is filled with opportunities to meet others! Here are a few options:

• Head to the St James pub which runs the Brighton Rum Club. They hold tastings which are a great way to meet people. And they have a Thai restaurant on the premises!
• The Office has 40 different gins to try and a pub quiz.
• If you’re looking to combine wellness and meeting people Brighton has its own wellness meet up group.
• Take one of the walking or cycling tours mentioned above – a great way to meet other tourists and even locals sometimes!

Sunset/Drinks

• Enjoy some nightlife in Brighton with cocktails at The Shuffle Bar . Not only can you get a fantastic cocktail here you can also play your own music! You can access the Shuffle jukebox through your smartphone. 
• Head down to the beach and hit a couple of pubs where you can watch the sunset. The Tempest Inn and the Fortune of War are next to each other bar a fish and chip shop in the middle! Both have great views of the seafront and channel. For solo travellers, The Tempest Inn is the nicer option of the two and probably the best place to start.
• Surprisingly Brighton does not have many rooftop bars! If you’re after that kind of view then head to Bohemia.
• If you are after somewhere Quirkier try Dead Wax Social .
• Or for something a bit more upmarket for your Brighton night out, try out a wine tasting at the wonderfully named Ten Green Bottles.

If you're a party solo, places to go in Brighton are night are the Green Door Store under the train station. This late-night venue features live music so check and book ahead. 

Try the On the Rocks Bar crawl if you are looking for a big night out and to meet other people. You’ll go to 5 bars and get 5 shots. The crawl runs Friday and Saturday nights. Pre-book online for the best deal – only 10 pounds.   

Where to Eat in Brighton

Breakfast, Brunch and Lunch:

Most of the accommodation options in the area will have breakfast included in their overnight price. But you may need a top-up and you will definitely need a spot of lunch!

The Lanes and North Laine are heavens for cute coffee and cake shops. So many great looking places! Here are 3 of my favourites:

1. Pelicano – the cakes are AMAZING! Oozing salted caramel and so many good things going on. They don’t do any savoury items on the menu so this is a cake and coffee specific location! 

2. Grow 40 – a fantastic breakfast and in my view the best coffee in Brighton! I highly recommend the sausage sandwich! They also do lunch and dinner and the restaurant is very atmospheric – there is even a wine snug upstairs which could be a good solo spot! 

3. Flour Pot Bakery – another super cute spot for breakfast, lunch and cake.  

Vegetarian Restaurants

For great vegetarian food head into the Lanes and Terre a Terre . Next to Terre a Terre is a fabulous Indian restaurant Indian Summer. Indian Summer does fantastic meal deals for lunch and early dinner that are worth checking out.

Treat yourself at:

The Sunday roast is another British classic and food and Brighton is a fantastic place to tuck in to one! Two of the best pubs for a great roast dinner are the Earth and Stars and Lion and Lobster. Make sure you ask for a Yorkshire pudding – they are often served only with roast beef which I completely don’t understand as I believe they go with absolutely everything!

Fish and Chips

You can't holiday in Brighton without eating fish and chips! It is quite hard to have a bad fish and chip experience in Brighton – a bit like bad pizza in Italy – it just doesn’t happen! Whilst there are several options in the Lanes and North Laines they really are best enjoyed sitting on the pebbly beach and purchased from one of the many fish and chip shops on Brighton seafront.

The classic and best option is The Regency which has been open since the 1930s. It also has a fantastic location which provides views of the i360, the burnt down pier (West Pier), and the English Channel.

For something a bit different if you choose to head to Rottingdean pop into Smugglers for the classic English chippy experience! You can purchase and take them down to the beach or eat in if it is a bad day. The servings are huge and I highly recommend the haddock and chips. However, perhaps bring your own wine or give it a miss as this does not seem to be their speciality!

In terms of Brighton accommodation there is a huge variety to choose from – upmarket youth hostels, typical British bed & breakfasts, a Brighton boutique hotel, rock n roll hotels or a traditional Brighton hotel. You can also find a nice cosy guest house, or if you prefer self-catering, you could book a Brighton apartment. You name it Brighton has it!

Plus there’s Airbnb which offers rooms in Brighton with a local, and rental accommodation in Brighton on a short-term basis. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment. Save $20 off your first stay with this Airbnb link . 

All of the accommodation below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. 

* Check prices or availability for all accommodation in Brighton

Kipps Backpackers

Kipps Backpackers is a consistently well-reviewed more upmarket youth hostel with a fantastic location near Brighton town centre. There is a mix of rooms from private to dormitories and all are quite attractive.

This is a great place to stay if you are keen to meet people or a great one if you are in need of a bit of privacy but don’t want to have to pay a lot for it. There is a lounge, a kitchen for self-catering, an outside terrace and even a licensed bar plus free WiFi. Prices range from £15 to £44. 

Home Backpackers

If you can’t get into Kipps give Home Brighton a shot. It is a similar set up of everything from private rooms to dormitories and has a shared kitchen etc. It also offers pancakes for breakfast which is always a good thing! Prices begin at £18 per person per night

The Oriental

The Oriental is one of the original boutique hotels in Brighton and is a bit more upmarket than a hostel. This quirky hotel in Brighton offers the opposite of a chain hotel experience and is in a great location. Prices start from £55 a night.

Hotel Pelirocco 

Brighton loves a themed hotel! From the hotel itself to each of the rooms you can have a very personalized accommodation experience. Treat yourself at Pelirocco Hotel. Hotel Pelirocco contends that it is Brighton’s sauciest boutique hotel! And it’s a Rock and Roll hotel too. Some big claims! There are 19 themed rooms to choose between – from Dolly Wood to Modrophenia! Prices from £159 per night.

For a little less you can try Seaspray, one of the theme hotels in Brighton. They have 15 different themed rooms from Elvis to Venice and also offer an insider’s guide to Brighton once you have made a booking. Prices from £125 per night. 

You don't really need to take any public transport in Brighton as Brighton city centre is walkable. Most of the key areas such as the Lanes, the Pavilion and the seafront are all very short walks. You can also hire a bike to get to the slightly further distances of Rottingdean.

There are local buses that can take you around Brighton and Hove and to areas such as the South Downs. The actual buses are often named after some of the city’s most famous residents! And of course, you can use Uber and local taxis.

You can drive but parking is not easy and not cheap. If you do decide to go for car hire, Brighton does have a park and ride but the train in and out is definitely the best option for a day trip to Brighton. 

If you are travelling to Brighton, Brighton is located quite close to Gatwick Airport, about 45 minutes in a car. Heathrow is about 90 minutes away.

How to Travel From London to Brighton – The easiest way to get to Brighton from London is on the train. You can pick up a train to Brighton from Kings Cross Station, Victoria Station or Clapham Junction station depending on where you are based in London. Clapham Junction station is the closest to Brighton. If you book in advance you can sometimes get cheap train fares from London to Brighton. * Check train times and prices here  

How far is Brighton from London? Getting to Brighton from Kings Cross will take about 90 minutes and about 65 minutes from Clapham Junction. The train to London from Brighton runs regularly.

For those who prefer the freedom of the open road consider hiring a motorhome and driving yourself around the UK stopping in Brighton on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation as well as cooking gear and a fridge/freezer to prepare your meals. Spaceship Rentals offers a Voyager campervan from £50 per day. * Book a campervan with Spaceship Rentals

About the Author 

Amanda O’Brien runs the travel blog www.theboutiqueadventurer.com . After 20 years in marketing and visiting over 80 countries in her 5 weeks off each year she decided to combine her skills with what she loved and start a travel blog. The blog focuses on adventurous activities and destinations but usually ends up in a hotel with a high thread count on the sheets. The blog is designed for travellers who are over 35 and is often focused on solo travel.

Follow Amanda on Facebook , Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Google Plus .

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15 of the best things to do in Brighton

Apr 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Brighton Pier is one of the city's most iconic attractions © Olivier DJIANN / Getty Images

An inimitable blend of cool and kitsch, Brighton is one of the UK's most quirky, vibrant and welcoming cities.

The perfect combination of lively urban life and laid-back beach vibes, Brighton has a thriving LGBTQIA+ scene, scores of independent stores and coffee shops, and a beloved seafront that draws beachgoers from across the southeast of England and beyond. 

Here are just some of the top things to do in this hedonistic seaside city.

1. Hit the beach

No trip to Brighton would be complete without spending some time on its famous pebbly beach. Have a go at water sports including stand-up paddleboarding and windsurfing, or simply relax in the sunshine. On warm weekends and holidays, Brighton beach attracts sizable crowds from London and other inland locations, so if you'd rather avoid the masses, visit on a weekday or head further along the coast to find a quieter spot. Winter is a lovely time to stroll along the seafront – the beach is virtually empty, and the sunset colors add plenty of atmosphere.

Read more: The top 10 beaches in England

2. Marvel at the splendor of the Royal Pavilion

Brighton's most iconic landmark is the extravagant Royal Pavilion , which was once the seaside palace of King George IV. It's an opulent mix of Indian architecture and Regency grandeur, with ornate roof domes and towering spires that dominate the landscape. Meanwhile, the interior is a jaw-dropping display of chinoiserie style, with resplendent bedrooms, gilded banquet halls and a dragon-adorned music room. The pavilion is well worth a visit for a peek into Brighton's decadent past – if you want to find out more about the city's history and culture, combine it with a trip to the adjoining Brighton Museum & Art Gallery .

3. Feel the nostalgia at Brighton Pier

One of the bigger attractions on the seafront is Brighton Palace Pier, commonly known as  Brighton Pier , a city landmark that dates back to the Victorian era. The 525m-long (1722ft) structure is packed with classic fairground rides, including a gaudy carousel, spooky haunted house, dodgems and a helter-skelter. Inside, you can immerse yourself in the non-stop noise and flashing lights of the games arcade, with everything from old-school 2p pusher machines to modern VR simulators. If your stomach can take it after a ride on a rollercoaster, nibble on a crunchy stick of Brighton Rock for a traditional sugary treat.

4. Start your day with locally roasted coffee

Brighton is one of the UK's most coffee-obsessed cities, and there is a wealth of independent coffee shops where you can get your caffeine fix crafted from locally roasted beans. Stoney Point has long been a favorite with locals, and Wolfox now has several stylish yet homely branches in the city – don't miss the deliciously fluffy "Mr Fox" pancakes. Alternatively, you can people-watch at Pelicano or escape the tourist crowds at Tilt in the north of the city.

5. Get lost in The Lanes

Brighton's legendary Lanes are laden with character, and you can easily while away an afternoon exploring these twisting alleyways and narrow streets. You'll find all sorts of artistic independent shops, galleries and cafes in the historic buildings here. From antiques and jewelry to books and vinyl records, these colorful stores have something for everyone. The area gets busy, so avoid visiting on the weekend if you want some breathing room.

6. Shop at boutique stores in North Laine

A short walk north from The Lanes lies, predictably, North Laine. Less than half a square mile in size, it's home to the largest collection of independent retailers on the UK's south coast. You'll find an eclectic mix of vintage fashion boutiques, bakeries, jewelry stores and gift shops to explore. Stop by Dave's Comics to browse graphic novels and games, or the renowned Snoopers Paradise flea market to rummage through everything from homeware to books and antiques.

7. Try local craft beer

Brighton's bar scene is second to none, with more pubs than you could possibly hope to visit in one trip. From the rooftop garden of The Mesmerist to the cave-like interior of the beachside Tempest Inn , there's a unique drinking establishment to suit everyone. The city also boasts some of the best LGBTQIA+ bars in the country, mostly located around St James' St in the Kemptown area – don't miss the "Piers & Queers" walking tour if you want to find out more about Brighton's history from an LGBTQIA+ perspective. Whichever pubs you choose to frequent, be sure to sample some locally brewed craft beer from breweries such as Brighton Bier while you're here.

8. Tuck into fish and chips 

Indulging in a box of fish and chips is a quintessential part of the British seaside experience, and there's no shortage of restaurants and chippies in Brighton where you can get your fill. Award-winning Bardsley's is one of the best, while The Regency has gorgeous sea views as you eat. If the weather's good, get yours to take away and enjoy eating on the beach the traditional way – but watch out for hungry seagulls! Don't eat fish? All-vegan No Catch has got you covered. Try their signature "tofish" and tempura "prawns." 

9. Change your perception of vegan food

Vegan fish and chips is far from the only option on the menu for plant-based visitors to Brighton. In fact, the city is one of the most veggie-friendly in the country, so you'll be spoiled for choice. Head to Food for Friends for an innovative seasonal menu, Terre à Terre to indulge in a vegan version of a traditional English afternoon tea, or The Roundhill for an epic plant-based Sunday roast that was voted the best in Brighton – beating its many meaty rivals. For dessert, drop by Boho Gelato for creamy vegan ice cream to enjoy on the seafront.

10. Catch a live show

Brighton is packed with venues for live music, comedy and theater. The Brighton Centre hosts some of the biggest names, but countless pubs – including the Hope & Ruin and The Brunswick – put on live shows multiple nights a week. If classical music is more your scene, check out the listings for the Brighton Dome , which sees the likes of the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra grace the stage.

11. Admire the view from the i360

It might not be the most visually appealing attraction in Brighton, but the British Airways i360 tower does offer stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The glass-walled pod rises 137m (450ft) into the air, from where you can gaze out over the South Downs and, on clear days, even see all the way across the sea to the Isle of Wight. Admire the sights with a glass in hand from the Sky Bar, or get your adrenaline pumping by signing up for the Tower Top Climb.

12. Spend an afternoon at Brighton Marina

To the east of the city lies the quayside Brighton Marina , a hub of shops and entertainment. If you don't fancy the walk, you can reach it in the summer via the historic Volks Electric Railway , which dates back to 1883 and is the oldest electric railway in Britain. In addition to brand-name shops, a cinema and a bowling alley, it houses the trippy UV-crazy golf facility Globalls, which is perfect for a rainy day. Another hot spot for shopping in Brighton is the Churchill Square shopping center, with around 80 high street stores.

13. Challenge yourself at an escape room

Brighton is a city that doesn't take itself too seriously, so it's a great place to indulge your playful side. Pier Pressure has a series of fun-filled escape rooms with storylines based around local landmarks like the Royal Pavilion and The Lanes, while Bewilderbox's two sci-fi-esque rooms have guest voice appearances, including Norman Lovett, who played Holly in the cult UK TV show Red Dwarf. For a more traditional gaming experience, check out beachside video and board game bar Loading or arcade pub The World's End .

14. Gaze out at West Pier

When wandering along the seafront, you can't help but notice Brighton's other pier stranded out at sea. West Pier is now just a shadowy skeleton of its former self, having been ravaged by both storms and fires over the years. It might not sound like much of an attraction, yet it's a hauntingly beautiful sight and makes for a great atmospheric photograph – especially during the winter months, when thousands of starlings swirl and dance in the skies above it.

Read more:   Seaside snaps: how to take brilliant beach photographs

15. Go for a hike

Thanks to its location next to the South Downs National Park, Brighton has plenty of epic hiking routes within easy reach. So pack a picnic and head out to the dry valley of Devil's Dyke, grassy slopes of Ditchling Beacon, or pretty woodland of Stanmer Park. There are paths suitable for all fitness levels, with fresh air and picturesque views of the English countryside just a short hop from the city.

Keep planning your trip:

Heading to England in 2024? Consider these 16 top places to visit Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around England Discover the best time to go to England

This article was first published Mar 27, 2022 and updated Apr 5, 2024.

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Brighton Travel Guide (with tips, itinerary and map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 5, 2023

Our Brighton Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most popular seaside resorts and cities on the southern coast of England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Brighton!

Plan your visit to Brighton

Located south of London on the southern coast of England is the popular seaside resort and city of Brighton and Hove. Described as ‘bohemian, hedonistic and colourful’ ( VisitBritain.com ) Brighton is a cute, quirky English city that has it all.

Brighton is also the perfect base for exploring some of England’s prettiest villages or why not take a day trip to the Seven Sisters cliffs located in the South Downs National Park?

What you will find in this complete Brighton Travel Guide

Map of Brighton

When is the best time of year to visit brighton, how many days do you need in brighton, what is the best way to get around brighton, by train from london, by car from london, take a tour from london to brighton, attractions, places to visit & things to do in brighton, where to stay in brighton, tickets, tours and experiences in brighton, books to read about brighton, enjoy your visit to brighton.

FAQs – Visiting Brighton

May to September is the warmest and sunniest time of year to visit. Peak season is July and August when Londoners flock to the seaside during the hot summer months.

It can be breezy in Brighton at any time of year! It can also be chilly in winter so pack accordingly .

The Brighton Festival is held in May and covers the arts – film, dance, comedy, literature, circus, theatre, and opera. Find out more information on the official site.

Plan to spend at least a day to enjoy some of Brighton’s attractions. This would provide enough time to visit the Royal Pavilion and Pier plus enjoy a walk around the Lanes.

Brighton is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or as part of a road trip along the southern coast of England.

Brighton is a compact city and is easily explored on foot.

There is also a hop-on-hop-off bus available to get you around to all the major sights if you prefer.

How can I get to Brighton from London?

For timetables and tickets, we recommend the trainline . Take the train to Brighton for the day.

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

• Distance from London: 47 miles
• Time taken by train: Fastest is 52 minutes to around 1 hour 20 minutes
• Depart London Victoria. London Blackfriars or London Bridge.

Brighton can take between 1 to 2 hours from London by road. Take the A23/M23 south until you arrive in Brighton. It is that easy!

There is a park and ride scheme available to get into the city. Alternatively there are number of car parks in the city. Don’t forget to carry change to pay parking meters.

• From London: Seven Sisters and South Downs Full-Day Tour – Explore the beauty of the South Downs National Park and see the famous white cliffs of the coast on a small group tour from London. Visit the chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters and discover the Neolithic carving of the Longman of Wilmington.
• Private Brighton & Arundel Castle or Petworth House Day Tour – Visit the lovely Regency seaside resort of Brighton and continue to Arundel Castle, home to the Duke of Norfolk for over 700 years. Travel in style in a luxury chauffeur-driven vehicle with door-to-door transfers from central London.

THINGS TO DO IN BRIGHTON

10 THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH EAST ENGLAND

PLACES TO STAY IN BRIGHTON

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England.

Below you will find a selection of the best tickets, tours and experiences available in Brighton. These tours are all available from Get Your Guide which is our tour company of choice due to their flexible cancellation policies and great customer service.

• Brighton Sea Life Centre – Visit the world’s oldest aquarium.
• Grand Brighton Bike Tour – Experience Brighton by bike on a leisurely 2.5-hour guided tour, and explore the artistic back streets of North Laine, the flamboyant architecture of the Royal Pavilion, quaint Fishing Quarter, Georgian architecture of Brunswick Square, and more.
• Brighton Zip Line Experience Ticket – Get an adrenaline rush on the longest zip line on the south coast of England and experience Brighton from a different perspective. Race your friends on a dual zip line or choose the complete package and have a go on the drop zone.
• Guided Chocolate Tour with Tastings – Sample your way around the seaside city of Brighton on this unique guided tour. With a local, visit some of Brighton’s most beloved chocolate shops and taste a selection of delicious sweet treats.
• Brighton Walking Food Tour – Discover the history and cuisine of Brighton on a 2-hour walking food tour, making regular stops for tastings of local food and drink.
• Private Customisable Brighton Tour With a Local – Book a local for a personalised exploration of Brighton. Your local host will give you a local perspective on both top attractions and lesser-known parts of the city with a flexible and exciting itinerary.

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to Brighton. You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around England in these travel guides:

• Devon Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Dorset Jurassic Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary & map)
• York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Lake District Travel Guide
• 10 virtual tours of famous landmarks in the UK

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

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• Los Angeles

The 25 best things to do in Brighton right now

Get the lowdown on the best things to do in Brighton with our complete guide to Britain's hippest seaside town

Photograph: Shutterstock

We might be biased, but Brighton  is a day-trip destination like no other . It has the perfect mix of an old-school, nostalgia pier (yep, there’s an arcade), and vibrant, winding shopping streets, full of seriously trendy veggie and vegan cafés and long-standing markets for thrifting, so there ’ s plenty to explore, whether the sun is out or not. 

Oh, and there’s the beach. And don ’t mind the pebbles – the seafront is l ined with ice-cream shops, bustling beach bars, and now the long-awaited Sea Lanes (opened in June 2023), you can spend whole days here sipping tinnies and tucking into fish and chips. Just beware of the seagulls. From feminist bookshops to indie galleries, cultural attractions to stunning walks, here are the best things to do in Brighton right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍝The best restaurants in Brighton ☕The best coffee shops in Brighton 🐟The best places for fish and chips in Brighton 🍺The best pubs in Brighton

This guide was recently updated by Liv Kelly , a writer from Brighton. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Brighton

1.  explore brighton palace pier.

• Things to do

What is it?   Brighton’s Grade-II listed pleasure pier (which is considered the finest ever built) with fairground rides, bars and restaurants stretching out into the sea. 

Why go?   The 525 metre platform of sweet treats, games, rides all surrounded by sea is undeniably iconic. It’s withstood storms, wars, and has even been renamed a couple of times, but it continues to stand proud as one of Brighton’s most recognised and postcard-worthy attractions.

2.  Wander through The Lanes

What is it?  Brighton’s artiest district, which is packed with independent shops, restaurants and traditional pubs. 

Why go? There’s a reason why these higgledy-piggledy alleys and avenues are one of the city’s biggest draws, for locals and tourists alike. The shabby, colourful North Laine is the place to head for cracking coffee, pastries and incredible second-hand shopping, whereas the more tranquil, historical Lanes (to the south) are home to lovely restaurants, bars and artsy little boutiques.  

3.  Marvel at the grand Royal Pavilion

What is it?  A rather fantastical-looking palace in the middle of town. 

Why go?  The Royal Pavilion is unsurprisingly Brighton’s most popular tourist attraction – just look at it – and while the opulent domes and minarets stand boldly apart from its surrounding buildings, doesn’t it seem familiar? John Nash, the architect who was in charge of the building’s final extension, was inspired by Indo-Islamic architecture, like that of the Taj Mahal. It’s a remarkable mish-mash of artistic and architectural inspiration. 

Don’t miss:  A secret tunnel in the building links the Pavilion to Brighton Dome (once King George’s riding stable). While you can’t see it on the standard tour, special tours of the tunnel and basement run on selected dates. 

4.  Take a dip at The Sea Lanes

What is it?: Once a derelict brownfield site, now the UK’s first open-water swimming centre, complete with cafés, bars, and a sauna. Sea Lanes opened in June 2023, with the aim of bringing swimming provisions to the city (and utilising a previously derelict site).

Why go?  Firstly, it’s heated. Second of all the Sea Lanes doesn’t just provide a place to swim but is also home to a number of local fitness well-being, food, and beverage businesses. Funded by local Brighton businesses, the site is made up of 23 carbon-neutral units, reminiscent of shipping containers. Whilst offering a pay-as-you-swim service, the site’s 21st-century design is juxtaposed by its proximity to the 19th-century Madeira Drive, combining the two worlds. 

5.  Get to know Brighton’s queer history on an LGBTQ+ walking tour

What is it? Discover queer landmarks and history in what’s arguably the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital. 

Why go? Rainbow flags fly proudly in Brighton, which many consider the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital. If you’ve ever wondered how Brighton became the town it is today, a walking tour from a local expert is a pretty good place to start. Walks take you through 200 years of history to chart the progress from bravery and achievement, in very different times to the more progressive attitudes of today. Plus, you’ll get to see some of Brighton’s best sights, from the grandeur of the seafront through The Lanes to the ‘gay village’ of Kemptown.

6.  Stroll along the Undercliff Path

What is it?  A path that follows the shoreline from Brighton Marina to the village of Saltdean.

Why go?  Found just beyond Brighton Marina, the Undercliff Path  sits beneath the chalk cliffs which line the coast east of the city towards Eastbourne. It takes around half an hour to cycle from the Palace Pier to Saltdean. Brighton’s city-wide BTN BikeShare scheme means it’s easy and cheap to get out here on two wheels.

7.  Discover fascinating ocean creatures at Sea Life Brighton

What is it? The  Sea Life centre in Brighton is in the world’s oldest operating aquarium.

Why go?  It’s hard not to be taken aback by the striking original Gothic arches as you enter this building, which dates back to 1872. We particularly like the Lagoon, populated with beautiful stingrays, and the interactive rock pool where you can touch a starfish or sea anemone. 

Don’t miss: The aquarium’s latest attraction,  ‘ Day and Night’, lets visitors experience a coral reef as it moves through the day into night, thanks to £2.7 million refurbishment. 

8.  Take in immense sea views from the British Airways i360

What is it? A futuristic viewing platform on the seafront. 

Why go?  Sure, the i360 might not be the most aesthetically pleasing structure, but the views from this 150-metre-high observation tower are pretty impressive. Here you can gawp at pretty much all of Brighton, out across the South Downs and over the Channel – including, on a clear day, the Isle of Wight.

9.  Get your caffeine fix at one of Brighton’s amazing coffee shops

What is it? Brighton’s coffee scene  is arguably the best in the UK.

Why go?  Brightonians spend more on coffee per head than any other city in the UK. With owners who spend time researching and tasting the best beans, you won’t struggle to find a caffeine fix here.

Don’t miss:  Local chains Small Batch and Wolfox can be found throughout the city, but for the best coffee head to Stoney Point.

10.  Explore the city’s independent bookshops

What is it?: An array of independent bookshops and sellers upholding the voices of marginalised authors.

Why go?: These bookshops don't just uphold the voices of marginalised voices in the publishing industry, they've also helped to create a community in Brighton. Whether you want to diversify your bookshelf or find something completely new, you're  guaranteed to find your fave new book here (and yes, they sell tote bags). 

Don’t miss:  The Feminist Bookshop and Vegan Cafe on Upper North Street to find some of the best female, non-binary, and marginalised voices out there or walk down North Road and visit the winner of British Bookseller of the Year, Afrori Books which offers one of the biggest selection of books by black authors. The two also join forces in June to hold the Brighton Book Festival.  

11.  Marvel at starling murmurations over the piers

What is it?  A nightly natural wonder that takes place on the seafront throughout winter.

Why go? From late October until March t housands of starlings gather each night just before sunset to swoop and swirl in a magical dance before settling into their roosts beneath the burnt-out West Pier and the iconic Palace Pier. The spectacle makes for incredible viewing: these are the best times to catch them. 

Don’t miss  Head to the Palace Pier for close-up views of the birds in action.

12.  Hike around Devil’s Dyke

What is it?  A timeless beauty spot on the sprawling South Downs.

Why go? Just a few miles out of town, the largest ’dry valley’ in the UK makes the perfect location for a dog walk or simply an aimless ramble as the sun sets. The Dyke has been a major tourist draw since the nineteenth century, and it’s very easy to see why.

Don’t miss:  Saddlescombe Farm, just a short hike away, is National Trust-managed farm hamlet with historic exhibits and a charming alfresco tearoom. 

13.  Catch the coolest new bands at Brighton’s best venues

What is it?  Check out the coolest new bands at one of the city’s ace independent venues.

Why go?  Brighton is known for giving new artists a leg-up thanks to its numerous small venues. Whether you want to see unsigned bands take to the stage at The Hope and Ruin or Green Door Store, or take in a show from hotly tipped acts at Chalk or Concorde 2 , you won’t be disappointed if new music is your thing.

14.  Go on a record shopping spree

What is it?  A string of amazing record stores selling the best in new music and classic LPs.

Why go?  Brighton has been at the forefront of the recent vinyl renaissance thanks to its brilliant record shops. Whether you want cheap second-hand treasures or the latest heavyweight releases, you’ll have no trouble finding what you’re after.

Don’t miss New record shop on the scene Capsule Records , which opened in 2023: an indie vinyl shop which doubles up as a café, where you can even try the tunes before you buy (via a QR code Spotify link). 

15.  Explore Castle Hill and the lost village of Balsdean

What is it?  A protected nature reserve and abandoned village deep in the South Downs .

Why go?  A short bus ride away, Castle Hill is home to a number of rare butterfly species. Criss-crossed by paths, it’s easy to take a circular route around this hidden part of the South Downs. At the bottom of this deep valley sits Balsdean, a hamlet that was appropriated by the Ministry of Defence for firing practice during the Second World War.

16.  Take a ride on the Volks Electric Railway

What is it?  The oldest operational electric railway in the world

Why go?  Running from the Palace Pier to Black Rock, the Volks Electric Railway is a narrow gauge service that delights tourists and young families alike. Opened by Magnus Volk in 1883, its small carriages run along the coast with views out to sea, passing through banks of wildflowers that are often covered with butterflies in summer.

17.  Browse bric-à-brac in Snoopers Paradise

What is it? A huge, eclectic flea market in Kensington Gardens. 

Why go? If you’re after some antique knick-knacks to decorate your room, look no further. Enter through the old-school turnstile of this gigantic emporium and you’ll find two floors positively overflowing with vintage treasure. Each stall inside Snoopers Paradise is independently owned. And good thing – more diversity the better.

Don’t miss: After you’ve bought a quirky hat, jump in the black-and-white photo booth to snap a keepsake.

18.  Get your culture fix at Brighton Dome

What is it? Another big performance venue, the Dome is the Brighton Centre’s slightly more refined sibling.

Why go?  Expect a programme of classical music, dance, theatre and poetry. It’s actually three venues (Concert Hall, Corn Exchange, Studio Theatre) – so you’ve plenty to choose from.

19.  Fill your bags with indie treats at the Open Market

What is it? A vibrant covered market filled with independent shops, street food and artists’ studios. 

Why go? Soggy out? The Open Market is where to head when it’s sheeting it down. This undercover market packs independent boutiques, artists’ studios and traditional market stalls all under one roof. Shop local and pick up some fresh nosh or grab a book from the dinky bookshop.

Don’t miss: Once your bags are bursting, snuggle up with a coffee from the Flying Saucer Café .

20.  See world treasures at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

What is it? An excellent museum and gallery in the city’s cultural quarter.

Why go? Part of the Royal Pavilion, this city-centre museum and gallery is free for locals, while visitors are charged £9. And that’s good value, given the treasures on show – from fine art and ancient Egyptian treasure.

Don’t miss: If insects are your thing, make a beeline for the Natural Sciences collection, where you can meet half a million of the little critters.

21.  Catch a big-name gig at Brighton Centre

What is it? A seafront exhibition centre and performance venue that’s  the place to go in Brighton for big-name comedy, music and theatre.

Why go? Many of the UK’s highest-profile tours head to the Brighton Centre , presumably undeterred by the venue’s history of hosting final gigs – both Bing Crosby and The Jam performed their last concerts here.

22.  Bring out your inner big kid at Brighton Toy and Model Museum

What is it? A wonderfully kitsch homage to the last 100 years of toys and models. 

Why go? Because who doesn’t enjoy a hit of childhood nostalgia? There are more than 10,000 items on display at this museum  – everything from Dinky cars and Meccano kits to vintage penny arcade games, puppet theatres and one of the country’s biggest collections of model railways, including a 1930s three-rail O-gauge layout (which is apparently pretty rare).

23.  Play Pac Man with a beer in hand at The World’s End

What is it? The city has an excellent roster of pubs , but  this one  is filled with arcade games and even its own escape room. 

Why go? What’s better than arcade games? Drinking while you play them! With its own escape room, a remote-control racetrack and a whole lot of VR booths where you can kill some aliens (or play one of several other games), this pub really is the epitome of a good time. Did we mention you can play Pac-Man here, too? Hell yeah.

24.  Sing-along to the jukebox at Shuffle

What is it? At cocktail bar Shuffle , the retro jukebox is given a truly modern twist.

Why go? Here tipplers can play selector via their phones. So whack on your faves and host an impromptu karaoke – sing-alongs are highly encouraged.

Don’t miss: From Monday to Wednesday, you can get your hands on two-for-one cocktails. Take a look at the best bars in Brighton . 

25.  Visit Hove Museum & Art Gallery

What is it?: Though technically in Hove, Hove Museum & Art Gallery (also known as the Hove Museum of Creativity) sits within a gorgeous Victorian Villa, originally known as Brooker Hall, on New Church Road. 

Why go?: Though it has various activities related to its seasonal exhibitions, guests can visit the gallery for its display celebrating Hove’s history as a hub for early 19th-century filmmakers. Showcasing some of the earliest recordings in the UK created by pioneers who put Brighton and Hove on the map, it’s a fascinating analysis of how the technology evolved from the tertiary practice of a dedicated few to one of the main forms of entertainment today. Oh, and it's free. 

Don’t miss: Explore The Wizard’s Attic to see the evolution of children’s toys from the 18th century to the present day. It’s fascinating, if a little bit creepy. 

More great things to do in Brighton

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Brighton Itinerary: 9 Great Things To Do in Brighton (2024)

Brighton is a fun and quirky city on the South Coast of the UK! It’s one of our favourite places to visit on a day trip from London and a perfect beach destination in England.

In this Brighton itinerary, we’re going to show you the best things to do, where to stay and how to get around!

The city is filled with charming narrow streets, independent shops, a pebble-stoned beach and an incredible amount of restaurants!

From watching the sunset over the water to Sunday brunches and exploring Brighton’s nightlife. You’ll find all sorts to do on a Brighton itinerary.

We’ve visited Brighton many times over the years whether it’s a day trip, weekend or a week! The beachy town was the perfect escape when we lived in London and we’ve even spent 5 days in Brighton and still didn’t run out of things to do .

However much time you want to spend in the city, here are our 8 best things to do in Brighton for you to plan your trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

8 Great Things to Do in Brighton (Brighton Itinerary)

If you only have one day in Brighton, you may not be able to do everything on this list. Although you’ll be able to see the highlights in Brighton city centre. It’s best to spend a weekend in Brighton to fully explore the area.

1. Find Unique Shops in The Lanes

The Lanes are our favourite place in Brighton! They are always full of character and it’s easy to get lost between the narrow streets. The Lanes are the most popular area to shop in Brighton . The streets are mainly independent shops and cute brunch cafes. There’s always so much going on!

We visit the Lanes on every Brighton day trip as they’re not hard to miss! You can easily walk through them on the way to the beach from the train station. Throughout the many cute cafes and vintage shops, it’s an area you must visit on your Brighton itinerary.

North Laine has a bohemian vibe and is where you’ll find most of the thrift shops. Many clothing stores within the lanes have clothing rails out on the pathway, making it a lot easier to browse and also much easier to catch your eye on something!

During our first visit to the lanes, we stumbled across a cafe serving the cutest-looking vegan-friendly doughnuts and buns. We just had to try them! Down to Earth Coffee is located in the North Laine and we’ve already included a photo of the pink swirly doughnuts!

I also love Ju-Ju and found myself a cute pair of dungarees! Also don’t miss out on Lucy & Yak ! The Lanes are a hip and funky place to visit and you get a real feel for the Brighton atmosphere.

2. Hike in the South Downs National Park

The beauty of the South Downs National Park surrounds Brighton. It stretches along the southern coast of the UK passing right by Brighton. It’s a popular park for hiking all year round if it doesn’t rain too much.

A great starting point from Brighton would be to head to Devil’s Dyke . We caught a public bus from the city centre and reached the park in less than an hour. We loved the hike so much, we included it in our best hikes in the UK guide .

How to get to South Downs National Park from Brighton – catch the Bus Service 77 to Devil’s Dyke: £3 single, £5 return

Don’t worry this is the only place on this list that will involve leaving the city, but we thought it was worth mentioning for those adventurers! It’s also a very relaxing way to spend a weekend in Brighton.

Aswell as Devils Dyke, we’ve also hiked the Seven Sisters Trails (sadly in the rain), but we highly recommend doing both whilst you’re exploring the UK! Join a South Downs White Cliffs Tour here.

3. Spend Pennies at Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier is an iconic part of the city! Your Brighton itinerary should include a visit to the pier, even if it’s just for a browse.

It’s free to enter the pier, although money is needed for almost everything other than watching. There are many options to keep you occupied such as taking a risk on 2p machines, playing arcade shooting games and you can even play air hockey for £1-£2.

At the very end of the pier, it feels like you’ve stepped into a mini theme park with rollercoasters and haunted house rides.

4. Try Amazing Vegan Restaurants

Brighton is a vegan paradise! If you’ve never been to any plant-based restaurants before, now is a great opportunity. We are massive foodies and enjoy finding some of the best vegan food to eat in a city before we visit.

There are so many options now all over the UK and Brighton is a great example of that. When we visited, we could only try a small percentage of what Brighton has to offer, but here are our recommendations for your Brighton itinerary:

• Green Kitchen Vegan Cafe – tasty brunch!
• Happy Maki – sushi rolls!
• Purezza – amazing vegan pizza!
• The No Catch Co – vegan fish and chips.
• What The Pitta – vegan gyros!
• Oowee Burgers – tasty vegan burgers

Check out our 4 days in London itinerary for more recommendations of vegan food and things to do.

5. Cycle along the Seafront

One of the best things to do in Brighton is to walk along the promenade gazing at the ocean waves. We’ve done this almost every Brighton trip, but we stepped up our game when we rented bikes and cycled the route!

Cycling along the seafront in Brighton is the perfect way to get around the city and visit more places in Brighton and Hove.

How to find a Rental Bike in Brighton?

If you walk around the city, you will notice rows of sky-blue bikes locked up. They are all over Brighton, so it won’t be very hard to locate a bike.

BTN BikeShare has both e-bikes and regular pedal bikes, so it’s up to you which one you want to rent. Download the – Social Bicycles app to rent one.

You have to sign up and create an account linked to a bank card but it will only charge you for what you use and don’t forget to check if there’s a promo code on google!

It’s 8p per minute for a pedal bike or 16p per minute for an e-bike – (Plus £1 unlock fee)

There is a dedicated cycle lane for bikes, however, it’s important to watch out for pedestrians who may walk in the cycle lanes.

The Hove Beach Huts are iconic for Brighton and a short cycle away, once you arrive, you can lock your bike back up and then start a new trip when you’re ready to cycle again.

Brighton Marina is full of restaurants, fishing boats and small boathouses. It’s a great location to see on a weekend in Brighton and a good opportunity to stop for food.

You can also join a bike tour of the city of Brighton ! It’s a great way to see the highlights and meet other travellers. Although it’s a lot cheaper to rent a bike and do a self guided tour yourself.

6. Picnic on the Royal Pavilion Gardens

The Royal Pavilion  is an exotic palace in the centre of Brighton with a colourful history. It was built for King George IV and mixes Regency grandeur with the visual style of India and China. In a very English city, the palace definitely stands out so you won’t miss it!

The gardens surrounding the palace is a perfect spot for a delicious picnic . You can also admire the Royal Pavilion at the same time.

If you’re interested in looking inside the palace you can purchase tickets here .

7. Rest on the Pebbles at Brighton Beach

A weekend in Brighton isn’t complete without visiting the beach. With the coast being so close to the city centre, it’s hard to miss the massive stretch of the ocean behind the shops.

Much like the Royal Pavilion Gardens, a pebbly beach is a perfect place for a rest and a snack.

If you’re not from the UK (and even if you are) this may be one of the perfect spots to enjoy some British chips. Just be careful of the seagulls! We recommed visiting The No Catch Co. for the best vegan fish and chips in the city!

You can also head up to the top of the Brighton i360 tower for a panaramic view of Brighton! Book your tickets in advance here .

8. See the Hidden Street Art

Brighton has an impressive amount of graffiti , and a large amount compared to other cities in the UK. It totally makes sense for this artsy city to be so colourful and definitely fits Brighton’s vibe.

There are a few famous murals to be found throughout the streets, however, a lot of Brighton’s graffiti consists of words and random art by a collection of unknown people or artists.

One of the most famous graffiti art pieces in Brighton is Banksy’s Kissing Robbers , after a long battle with vandalism, a remake of the art is placed on the side of the Prince Albert pub.

Gloucester, North and London Road are other popular streets for funky graffiti. You never know when something new will pop up in big cities.

If you like street art, Bristol is home to Banksy’s Street Art and we have a one day Bristol itinerary along with all the best free things to do in Bristol .

9. Watch a gig at Brighton Dome

Although London has lots of music venues, we booked tickets to see my favourite band, Alexisonfire at Brighton Dome! We grabbed a train after work and made our way down to Brighton for the night.

The Brighton Dome Studio Theatre is used for music events and plays. Whether you’re into theatre or music gigs, check out what’s playing to have a unique experience during your weekend in Brighton.

There are also plenty of cinemas around Brighton and the rest of the UK, it can be a great way to spend a rainy day!

Planning a Brighton Itinerary

Once we moved to London, Brighton became our beachy getaway and it was super easy to visit Brighton on a day trip! After showing you the best 9 things to do in Brighton, we can now plan your Brighton itinerary.

Day 1 in Brighton

Start your day with a vegan brunch at Green Kitchen before spending the morning exploring the Lanes ! Admire the Royal Pavilion Gardens before finding the unique street art in Brighton .

Head to the beach and get a vegan f ish and chips on Brightons beach and relax! After fueling up, spend the late afternoon cycling to Hove to see the Brighton beach huts and check out the marina on the other side of Brighton.

End your day with a sunset on the beach or a music gig at Brighton Dome .

Day 2 in Brighton

Spend most of the day visiting the South Downs National Park whether you walk across the Seven Sisters or hike Devils Dyke!

When you get back to Brighton city centre, explore anything you might have missed on the first day and get lost in the Lanes!

Where to stay in Brighton

If you’re spending the weekend in Brighton, you’ll want to stay close to the beach or city centre. Brighton isn’t a cheap city to stay in, but the UK is quite expensive overall. Here’s a few reccommendations on where to stay in Brighton:

• Brighton Beach Inn £-££ – a social dorm in the heart of Brighton – Find on Hostelworld here !
• Paskins Town House £-££ – a modern apartment in the centre of Brighton – Find on Booking.com here !
• Blue Sky Guest House ££ – a cosy private room near the Pier – Find on Booking.com here !

What to do at night in Brighton

When the sun goes down in Brighton, there are still many ways you can spend your night. Brighton’s nightlife is said to be great, whether you’re interested in late-night clubs or cosy pubs, you will not spend your evening bored.

• Head to the cinema
• Grab a beer at one of Brighton’s many pubs
• Go for a walk along the promenade
• See a concert

Did you know? Brighton hosts the UK’s largest  Pride  event every August and Europe’s first Trans Pride was held here.

How to get to Brighton

There are multiple ways to get to Brighton depending on where you are in the country. If you’re visiting Brighton from outside of the UK, you’ll need a flight to London.

By Train – Taking the train to Brighton is the best way to reach the city without a car. Brighton Train Station is in the centre, walkable to most locations and points of interest. Book your tickets in advance on Trainline for the best prices (you’ll save more money with a Railcard)

By Bus / Coach – If you’re on a budget, another way to get to Brighton is by coach. National Express and Megabus can cost around £5 for a 3-4 hour journey. We use them all the time!

By Car – Using your own vehicle or hiring a car is a great way to travel around the UK. When travelling into cities such as Brighton you may have a problem trying to find free parking. Use Google Maps to find a car park.

Is Brighton worth visiting?

Brighton always has a cool vibe in the air and you can visit all year round. The vegan food scene is truly amazing and some of the restaurants alone would make us want to visit again.

Brighton is a great weekend away for everyone and definitely worth a visit. As it’s so close to London, it also makes a perfect day trip for anyone in the capital city.

We hope you have the best Brighton itinerary and enjoy your time there! Find us on instagram @thesunrisedreamers and check out our other travel guides!

We have guides on how to explore the Scottish highlands , spend 3 days in Edinburgh , take a day trip to Cambridge and spend the day York !

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Love Brighton, can’t wait to go back. How cute are those beach huts 💕

Brighton is beautiful! Can’t wait to go back either!

I am a big fan of beach boxes and markets. I would love to wander through markets for an entire afternoon.

Oh that’s lovely! 🙂

I don’t think I’ve been to Brighton since I was a kid, it looks like such a fun place. The street art is really cool, and I had no idea there were so many vegan places in Brighton. Definitely a reason to try it soon

Yes, same! Amy has been there camping with her family as a child! It feels totally different as an adult now 🙂 And the vegan food scene is great!

Thank you for your kind words. We enjoy sharing tips and information about the world!

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The best hotels in Brighton & Hove

By Anna Prendergast

Brighton is a regular weekend escape for many Londoners, but when a quick Airbnb won't do, the city is home to some of the UK's best hotels . The seaside city is enjoying a flourishing restaurant and hotel scene right now, with smart addresses opening their doors to cater to the weekend crowds along with the rising population of digital nomads. Amongst the usual hostels and corporate hotels, you can now find co-living concepts, restaurants with rooms and boutique stays. Where interiors are well thought out and communal spaces feel like a party. So if you haven't had a seaside break for a while, now's the time. And these hotels in Brighton are the best places to stay.  

The Ginger Pig

Best for: romantic weekends spent rolling from bed to breakfast

In the city’s quieter, more grown-up neighbourhood just 15 minutes by bus from Brighton’s centre, the Ginger Pig’s restaurant is a favourite for smart locals sniffing out Sussex-supplied produce, spirit and sex appeal away from the crowds. Its dark, teal-and-sage palette, glossy velvet chairs and brass hardware gives it a clubby feel without the unattainable waft of exclusivity: everyone is welcome at the bar, including your four-legged friends. Despite the name and the Gingerman group’s reputation for sourcing the finest cuts, vegetarians are well looked after (tired risotto is subbed out for crispy wild mushroom arancini and baked celeriac with glazed chicory). But The Ginger Pig is more than just a restaurant with rooms: thoughtful details such as a separate entrance for guests and pre-mixed cocktails in the fridge give heft to its boutique hotel status. In terms of bedrooms, size isn’t everything here – we prefer the small double to the large double room, as the tub is in its own separate space (baths in bedrooms is a trend we’d rather leave in 2021).

Address: The Ginger Pig, 3 Hove Street, Hove BN3 2TR

Price: Doubles from £95

Best for: young people who want the style without the spend

Co-living concepts like Selina have turned a generation of would-be backpacking globe-trotters into digital nomads, by providing affordable accommodation that blurs the line between hostel and hotel, and co-working desks that are used for more than just beer pong tournaments. At the Brighton outpost, many of the staff are students or international travellers themselves, and there’s a choice of shared dorms, private rooms and two suites (which come with private bathrooms). It’s about as millennial as it gets, in all the best ways – your day could involve sunrise yoga at the Old Pier, a coffee by Brighton’s artisan roastery Pelicano, a power hour surrounded by potted plants and pink-haired entrepreneurs, an afternoon beach cleanup, and a craft workshop with a cocktail. Whether you call it co-working or hot-desking, there’s a lovely communal feel here, making it a great place for solo travellers , remote workers and sociable city breaks.

Address: ​​Selina, 135 Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2HX

Prices: Four-person dorms from £37; private rooms from £110

Artist Residence

Best for: solo DFLs with an eye for design

Regency Square is where boutique brand Artist Residence began, with locations following in Oxfordshire , Penzance, Pimlico and Bristol. Each property is filled with hand-picked antiques, witty prints and colourful canvases by local artists, but Brighton ’s has the edge of a place dreamed up on a budget – owner Justin invited the city’s creatives to help bring Brighton’s artistic scene to life in the hotel in return for board, thus becoming a genuine, modern-day artist’s residence – pre-loved and well-worn, yes, but very stylish, just like Brighton itself. The converted townhouse is the sort of place you can wear your pyjamas to breakfast and take your martini to bed; there are remote workers in the bar and couples who hole up in their room for entire weekends at a time. We love the restaurant’s neon washing line by Andy Doig, whose studio you’ll find along the seafront, and Maria Rivans’ collage murals throughout. Room 21 is the big-hitter, with a widescreen TV suspended over the bath (an odd, but enjoyable luxury), Champagne glasses for guests that BYOB, sea views and a copper bathtub almost as big as the kingsize bed. Activist and artist Fox Fisher’s works are also dotted throughout: they have worked with the hotel since 2008 on screen-printed wallpaper and one-off prints.

Address: Artist Residence, 33 Regency Square, Brighton BN1 2GG

Prices: Doubles from £95

Harbour Hotel

Best for: facilities and families

The hotels along Brighton’s seafront tend to be more corporate than cool, and many look like they haven’t been upgraded since the post-war boom of the British seaside holiday. So when Harbour Hotel announced a major refurbishment of the property back in 2015, it shouldered the weight of anticipation from locals and travellers alike, following the success of its first Salcombe hotel of the same name. With a secret, subterranean spa, spacious bedrooms and its unparalleled location – right on the seafront, and just footsteps from the famous Brighton Lanes – it’s become a go-to for multi-generational downtime, particularly during school holidays . Parents gossip in the social spa; kids roam the open-plan restaurant. Travelling solo or with a plus one? Book room 102 for extra privacy, the best view of the ocean and a bathtub (the other rooms are more family-oriented) and head to the pool early if you want to get your lengths in without butterfly-kicking kids in the pool. Don’t bother with a rented car – even little legs will be able to walk to all the important places easily.

Address: Harbour Hotel, 64 Kings Road, Brighton BN1 1NA

Prices: Doubles from £280 including breakfast

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1 Day In Brighton: 15 Things To Do On A Brighton Day Trip (2024)

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

I recently spent a day in Brighton and I’m raving about it. Not only is there a beach, but the city is colourful, quirky and friendly with a fantastic eating scene. It’s easy to take a day trip to Brighton from London as well as several other UK cities. I’d been to Brighton a couple of times before but not in the last few years (given my recent globe-trotting I’ve not exactly been anywhere in the UK in a couple of years). I was expecting street art , the beach and food & drink from my Brighton day trip – and that’s what I got plus a bit more! After this trip, it’s safe to say Brighton is one of my favourite places in Southern England , apart from of course Bristol , Bath and my hometown of Oxford ! If you’re looking for UK day trips , read about my day trips to Bath , Oxford , Cardiff and Liverpool. If it’s the beach you’re craving, consider a London to Margate day trip . I also have a post on the top 10 London to the Cotswolds 1 day trips .

BRIGHTON QUICK LINES Accommodation: Booking.com  / Hostelworld.com Copy of Lonely Planet England Activities: GetYourGuide Getting there: Trainline / Busbud Must read: Complete guide to UK travel on a budget

Brighton day trip from London by train

I use Trainline for booking train tickets in the UK. You can compare prices and times throughout the day to get the best deal, plus the website shows live departure times which is helpful when travelling. Tickets from London to Brighton start at £14.50 but ones at decent times usually cost £21.50.

When taking a day trip to Brighton from London, there are several London stations you can depart from. For a direct journey of just 1 hour with no changes, your best bet is catching:

• A Great Northern or Thameslink train from London Blackfriars
• A Southern Railway or Gatwick Express from London Victoria
• A Great Northern, Southern Railway or Thameslink train from London Bridge .

Regardless of the service, use Trainline to book tickets. Consider getting a Railcard if you’re aged 30 or under. After a few uses, you make back the cost of the card and then some.

Search London to Brighton trains .

Day trip to Brighton from London by bus

If you just have one day in Brighton, taking the train is much quicker meaning you have more time in Brighton. However if you’re short of cash, it’s worth noting that Brighton is well connected to London and other UK cities by bus. Journeys to Brighton from London cost just £5 and take 2 hours 30 minutes from London Victoria.

Search London to Brighton buses .

How to spend one day in Brighton – quick itinerary

10am: Arrive in Brighton and head for brunch (see my top picks below) 11am: Wander Brighton Pier and relax on Brighton Beach 12pm: Visit the Royal Pavilion 2pm: Browse shops on North Laine 4pm: Stroll the Promenade and spot other Brighton sights 5pm: Pass Brunswick Square and reach Hove Beach Huts 6pm: Eat dinner in Hove Finish your day out in Brighton & head back home!

How to get around during a day in Brighton

I explored Brighton on foot which is easy to do. You can see most of Brighton in a day without a car or public transport and even make it down to Hove, the other part of the city that is Brighton & Hove. Sightseeing bus: If you’re not much of a walker or prefer the novelty of exploring from the upper deck of a big red bus, book a hop-on-hop-off bus for £17. By bike: Another fun way to see Brighton (and get around a bit quicker) is a Brighton bike tour led by local guides. This will take you from Royal Pavilion to Brunswick Square (opposite ends of the city) in just 2.5 hours meaning you have more time later to relax on the beach and shop at the Lanes.

Best things to do during 1 day in Brighton day trip

Now for the good bit. Let’s run through everything to do during a Brighton day trip including visiting costs and info, plus where to eat and other Brighton travel tips. Here’s how to see Brighton in a day…

1. Begin with brunch

Depending what time you begin your Brighton day trip from London, you may wish to begin with a hearty feed. If you didn’t guess from my many food blogs, feeding myself heartily is the joy of my life! Billie’s Cafe : There are plenty of cafes in Brighton but I would highly recommend Billie’s Cafe on Hampton Place. With the blue checkered tablecloths and generous mugs of builders tea, Billie’s has an old-school vibe that you won’t find in some of the gentrified Brighton restaurants. I had salmon & avo but apparently the star dish is the farmhouse stack with potatoes, sausages, eggs, cheese and beans.

Joe’s Cafe : Another fantastic option for brunch lovers in Brighton is Joe’s. This cosy independent gets busy on a weekend but it’s well worth the queue. The best dish is Lucie’s healthy breakfast with smoked salmon, poached eggs, mushrooms and avocado.

2. Take a walking tour

Want to learn Brighton’s stories from a local? Taking a walking tour is one of my favourite ways to get orientated in a new city. This TripAdvisor award-winning Brighton story walking tour (£17) takes 90 minutes and will bring you up to speed on Brighton’s history and best neighbourhoods.

3. Tour the street art

After finding street art in Bristol , Camden and Shoreditch lately, I’m a huge fan. Set against some of the elaborate townhouses, the Brighton street art is quite the contrast. Lart, much of it tells a story. One urban mural above encourages young women to vote. If you just have one day in Brighton, this is a fun and free activity that will introduce you to Brighton’s quirky side. Mini Brighton street art tour:

• Head past the train station onto Trafalgar Street where the street art begins
• Turn into Trafalgar Lane (where 90% of the above photos were taken)
• Walk along Gloucester Street
• Connect to Gloucester Passage and Kensington Street.

More street art locations in Brighton: Seek out the Astoria building on London Road where there’s a recreation of Banksy’s Kissing Policemen. Find more art on Orange Row off North Road, and on turn-off streets from North Laine.

4. Brighton Palace Pier

It wouldn’t be a Brighton day trip without eating ice cream and checking out the arcades at Brighton Palace Pier. There are also fair rides if that’s your cup of tea but I’m a 27-year-old with less capacity for adrenaline than a toddler so I stuck to my Mr Whippy and chocolate flake! Having survived two wars, Brighton Palace Pier is a Grade 2* listed building with all the charm of yesteryear. But following some big refurbishments, it’s now firmly in the modern day with free Wi-Fi so you can ‘gram your Brighton day trip! Brighton Pier is free to visit but you can purchase a wristband if you’ll be going on the rides. Buying one online in advance saves you 25%. Wristbands are priced differently for weekdays and weekends so make sure to buy the right one.

5. Relax on Brighton beach

I’m so envious of Brighton locals for having a beach on their doorstep (even if it’s stony). If you have time towards the end of the day, return to Brighton Beach and grab yourself a couple of beers (and a blanket to sit on if possible!). This is the perfect way to end a Brighton day trip from London if you’re taking the train and don’t need to drive.

6. Try some classic English foods

What better way to enjoy the British seaside than with ice cream? If there is one, I’m yet to hear about it. A few English seaside foods to try include:

• Mr Whippy ice cream and flake
• Fish and chips (do not take your eyes off them for a second or an evil seagull will steal your chips!)
• A stick of rock (to take home as a souvenir or gift)
• Candy floss!

7. British Airways i360 

Near the remains of the old West Pier is this brand-spanking-new (well, newish – it was built in 2016) addition to the seafront. While some locals were initially iffy about it, you can’t deny it’s a fantastic attraction for tourists wanting a bird’s eye view of the coast. From the glass viewing pod at the top, you can see 360-degree views of Brighton, the English Channel and South Downs. Book a British Airways i360 Ticket for £20 or upgrade to a cream tea experience !

8. The Royal Pavilion

If you’re trying to see Brighton in a day, you can’t squeeze in everything… But I’d recommend prioritising the Royal Pavilion ! This is one of the most impressive buildings in Brighton with a colourful history to boot. King George IV built the Royal Pavilion as a seaside pleasure palace, taking inspiration from India and China. Having been to India a couple of times now, I could appreciate the Indian influence. It’s sometimes called the ‘Taj Mahal of Brighton!’ Inside, there are some incredible rooms to peruse including the Banqueting Room, the Music Room, the Saloon and the Royal Bedrooms. Entrance fees: £18 for adults, £11 for children (under 18). For a free option, snap it from outside and relax in the Pavilion Gardens. Opening times: 9.30am-5.45pm (last admission at 5pm). Address: 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE.

9. Shopping in the Brighton Lanes

Right in the heart of Brighton, the Lanes are where to pick up souvenirs during 1 day in Brighton. It’s worth visiting even if you’re not much of a shopper; there are also cafes, pubs and theatres. The spirit of boho, alternative Brighton is best discovered in this part of town. There are two main areas: South Lanes: Here you’ll find lots of cafes, jewellery shops and gift shops. North Laine: My personal favourite! This is the place to be for trinkets, antiques and retro fashion. There are more than 400 independent shops and cafes in this area so I was more than happy to ditch the Starbucks and get stuck in. Food & drink in the Lanes: I visited on a beautiful sunny day so settled myself outside Kooks Restaurant  for a G&T and snacks whilst I read my book and people-watched. If you visit at lunchtime, check out Curry Leaf Cafe for casual Indian food or Lost in the Lanes for hip, wholesome lunch and brunch. Browse the shops in this A-Z to the Lanes .

10. Wander the promenade

After visiting Brighton Beach and Brighton Pier, take a stroll along the promenade. Here you’ll spot some other famous features of Brighton. You can walk all the way to Hove, spotting colourful beach huts and finishing your Brighton day trip with a tasty dinner in Hove. Some sights to see along Brighton’s seafront promenade include:

• The skeleton of West Pier (sandy lost to a fire)
• Brighton Beach Bandstand.

After walking past Brighton Beach Bandstand, you’re just a few moments from…

11. Brunswick Square

It may not be the most common thing to do during a Brighton day trip but I’m always amazed by this part of town. Go and ponder how the other half live at this millionaire square! Built in the 1820s, Brunswick Square was (unsurprisingly) created for the upper classes who were expected to behave accordingly while living in them. While the classes may not be as divided these days, it’s still the fanciest part of town. After having a nosy around, keep walking towards Hove. These two parts of the city are close enough together that you can see Brighton in a day and tag on Hove, too.

12. Hove Beach Huts

I’m no minimalist; I’m obsessed with anything bright and colourful so I was in heaven in Hove, 10 minutes’ walk down the road from Brighton. There’s not much to say about the Hove Beach Huts (apart from some sell for up to £14,000!) but they’re worth checking out as an Instagrammable destination in Brighton !

13. Eat dinner at Fatto Amano

After walking to Hove to check out Hove Beach Huts, I stopped for dinner. If you have just one day in Brighton and limited stomach room, save yourself for pizza at Fatto Amano ! This pizzeria is inspired by Naples and exclusive to Brighton.  The freshly-cooked woodfire pizzas cost between £8.50-£15, perfect if you’re travelling on a budget . If you don’t head all the way to Hove, there’s a branch in the Lanes, too. Check out all the best places to eat in Hove .

14. Take a food tour

Taking food tours is one of my favourite things to do in new cities. I’ve taken them in Mexico, Vietnam, South Africa and now even back home in the UK! I like Viator for food experiences, like this secret doughnut tour !

15. Take a self-guided treasure hunt

For a final fun thing to do during a day trip to Brighton, why not take a scavenger hunt? I love how many of these are popping up in cities all over the world. You use your mobile phone to unlock clues and learn about the city. Being outdoors, they’re great for travel in 2021. Check out this Brighton treasure hunt with Viator (£25) .

Where to stay after a day in Brighton

If you choose to stay over in Brighton, use Booking.com for hotels and self-catering apartments and Hostelworld.com for hostels.

Best budget accommodation – Selina Brighton . The Selina chain is a great option all around the world so you can expect top quality standards. This venue is perfectly placed on Brighton Promenade with rooms from £50. More budget hotels – Britannia Study Hotel / The Lanes Hotel . Splash out hotel – Malmaison Brighton .

Thanks for reading my Brighton day trip itinerary!

I hope you have a wonderful time exploring this city. Whether you’re taking a Brighton day trip from London or any other UK city, there’s loads to do.

Check out some of my other England posts:

• My London archives
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• How to spend a weekend in Bristol
• The Manchester weekend guide
• The perfect weekend in Dorset
• How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
• Things to do in Liverpool in winter
• How to spend 2 days in the Lake District
• The ultimate Bath day trip from London
• And my guide to backpacking the UK

Visiting the UK? Guidebooks – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet England . Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use Busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

If you liked it, please share it!

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this day out in Brighton? Pin it for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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13 Best Things To Do in Brighton, England [Travel Guide to Brighton]

“You were wonderful, you were mystical, And the envy of all of my friends, seems like only yesterday, under the stars on Brighton beach..”  as Rod Stewart strung his tuned guitar while putting thoughts into lyrics about his young love. And it seems like yesterday when I moved just a few miles from Brighton after university with the hope of getting a job, but I made good not just with academia or employment, but also finding myself gracefully and build a second home. I met a lot of people, some of them whom I’ll never see again but most whom I considered my family. Yet there were crazy days, but stupendous most of the time.  It is a busy place to be but full of youthful promises, so when my friend pull out the tired analogy of working-as-whoring, we all sympathise and we down cocktails as the highlight of those days.

Related Article:  Discovering Edinburgh the local way, with Homestay

Brighton wasn’t the first city I’d lived in, but it was certainly the most diverse and zealous. Anywhere else there is always the chance of seeing someone from different backgrounds; a tanned-skin girl with a funky braided hair, an eastern Asian students who splurge themselves with some posh clothing’s and accessories, some cheerful Italian ladies greeted each other “buongiorno” , some middle-aged men holding each others hand while walking along North Lanes, or a smiling face calling you either “mate” or “love”.  Commuters crowd the trains and buses, all day long and all night, eager to outshine their fellow travellers in an escalating war of newspaper, headphones, and iPads .

Table of Contents

How to get here

Get to Brighton with Southern Rail from London Victoria which takes an hour ride.

There are also regular National Express coaches from London Victoria coach station.

Let’s talk about Brighton

Find accommodation in Brighton, England

Where to stay.

Because of it’s easy accessibility from London and increasing it’s popularity with the masses, Brighton opens the gateway to large number of tourists each year. Finding the right place to stay in this city wouldn’t be challenging due to it’s vast selection of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses and it can vary to your budget and needs. It can be expensive during weekends and the summer months between June and September.

Try to find some local guesthouses with Homestay.com to experience what the unique community could offer while saving your pocket. Become a Brightonian for a day would be your most upbeat and fun experience that you can have with Homestay.

Where to eat and enjoy night life

In the morning, walk around Kemp town and smell the freshly baked buttery croissant and a strong aroma of Italian coffee. There are French and Italian cafes around. Alternatively, you can stuff yourself with a  full English breakfast in local pubs.

Landmarks and Museums in Brighton

1. The Royal Pavilion

It is a former Royal residence of the monarchy of Great Britain. the unique architecture of the pavilion is influenced by Indo-Saracenic style state-of-the-art in India. The Brighton council purchased the pavilion from Queen Victoria and marked the beginning of the site’s attractions  as a tourist destination.

2. The West Pier

One of the grade 1 listed pier in the UK. The pier suffered from structural damage due to storm and fire. The West Pier Trust was adamant to do restoration but has left abandoned up to date due to lack of funds.

3. Brighton Clocktower

It commemorates Queen Victoria’s jubilee. Nowadays, it’s the intersection of Brighton’s busiest roads.

4. Volk’s Electric Railway

It’s the world’s oldest operating electric railway.Runs along the Brighton beach up to Brighton Marina.

5. The Grand Hotel

The Brighton hotel bombing happened in the Grand Hotel in October 1984 when the former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and her cabinet stayed for the conference. Fortunately she managed to escape,yet 5 people were killed and 31 injured.

6. The Brighton Wheel

A transportable Ferris Wheel started to operate from October 2011 until May 2016.

7. British Airway i360

8. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

9. Brighton Fishing Museum

10. Brighton Marina

It is the largest marina in Europe and one of the largest in the world. It covers 127 acres along the bottom of the cliffs at Black Rock. It took 7 years to build and it was opened to the public in July 1978. It has  a working harbour, residential housing, retails shops, restaurants, cinemas, gym, health club, bowling complex, and casino.

11. AMEX Stadium

Home of Brighton and Hove Albion football club.

12. Retail Therapy

13. Brighton Beach and Pier

It stretches out almost 9 kilometres pebbly beach which certainly gives the beach goer more than enough space to stretch their legs and relax. It has bars, cafes,alfresco restaurants, nightclubs, gym, the Brighton Sea life centre, and amusement arcades. There are also some colourful beach huts if you walk towards the neighbouring Hove and brick walled chalets.

If you fancy some active afternoon, it offers some sports complex for beach volleyball, table tennis, basketball, and frisbee. Walking towards the eastern end of the beach, you will find the Britain’s first Naturist beach called the Cliff beach.

Let’s go outside near Brighton

Alternatively, you can also visit the Seven Sisters National Park between Seaford and Eastbourne. Take 12, 12,12a,or 13x(also goes to Beachy head) take the bus Bus from Stop E opposite Churchill Square.

So, when are you going to visit me?

Whatever you are after, from the quirky to extravagant, music and arts, the colourful Pride Festival, or just relaxing by the beach, Brighton has something to offer everyone.  No matter where you’re from, Brighton is a place for the diverse because..” you can experience more with those who call it home” ( homestay.com )

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11 Very Best Things To Do In Brighton

Brighton is one of the most fun and pretty cool places in the south of England to go for a long weekend break. It’s the kind of city that’s got so much to see and do and you’re almost guaranteed to find a few spots you’ll love. Honestly, there are just so many incredible and best things to do in Brighton that you’ll be spoilt for choice and probably end up staying longer. Ha! 

Better still, Brighton is a stone’s throw from the central areas of London by train, making it a really easy pit stop to visit whilst already in the capital. This is exactly why I wanted to share my very best things to do in Brighton on your next trip. 

It doesn’t matter if you want to soak up some of that (not quite) elusive British sun, gorge at some of the freshest restaurants or explore some of the amazing festivals the city hosts… I’m almost sure you’ll love Brighton.

Best things to do in Brighton

With that in mind, take a look, below, at the best things to do in Brighton once you arrive. Have the best trip. 

1.) Explore Brighton Pier

Now, no trip to Brighton would be complete without a little jaunt along the Brighton Pier. Arguably, one of the best-known piers in the south of England, strolling the pier is easily one of the best things to do in Brighton on a hot summer day. 

Admittedly, it does get busy at certain times, but that’s part of the fun too. Take a stroll out to see over the wooden decking, buy yourself a few sticks of rock (candy) and head on board some of the fairground rides that are at the end of the pier. It’s so much fun. 

Read more: Best things to do in the south of England

2.) Visit the Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is probably one of the most iconic buildings in the city of Brighton and Hove and a spot you can’t miss. Better still, it’s only a short stroll from the seafront and so easy to find. 

Built way back in the 18th Century, this former royal residence was built as a way for Royalty to enjoy the south coast and Brighton itself. A few hundred years ago, Brighton had started to become pretty fashionable for royalty to visit. Which, in turn, made everyone else want to go.

Built in an Indo-Saracenic style, seeing the Royal Pavilion is easily one of the best things to do in Brighton when you visit the city. It’s so beautiful and totally eye-catching. Just make sure to visit the stunning Pavilion Gardens too. 

3.) Stroll around ‘The Lanes’

The Lanes has become one of the coolest shopping areas in Brighton that’s filled with every type of shop and restaurant you can image. 

Now, there are over 400 shops crammed into a dense network of small alleys will keep you occupied for hours, even if you’re looking for something specific or if you’re just browsing. Essentially, if you can’t find it there, you won’t find it anywhere. Except perhaps at the Brighton Flea Market.

It’s certainly one of the best things to do in Brighton if you fancy a little shop. Afterwards, head across to The Marine Tavern for some delicious pub grub that’ll fill you right up. 

4.) Go to Brighton Pride

Every year, Brighton hosts Pride, a celebration of all things LGBTQ+ and it’s easily one of the biggest Pride Festivals in the UK. Happening every year, on a weekend in August (typically), Brighton Pride takes over the city and puts on one of the best festivals.

It’s so much fun and one of the best things to do in Brighton if you want to experience what the city is all about. Brighton is a liberal, fun and exciting city that just makes it so incredible. 

5.) Gorge on Fish and Chips

Okay, I know you can gorge on fish and chips almost anywhere in the UK but there’s something that makes it even tastier by the seaside. Once in Brighton, head for a bag (or plate) of fish and chips, with lashings of vinegar. 

For some of the best places, check out the Regency Restaurant (where you can sit in), Bardsley’s or Bankers that all serve up a freshly fried portion. 

6.) Visit the Dukes at Komedia

If the weather is going full-on British for you, there’s no better place to treat yourself to a movie and some popcorn than the Dukes at Komedia. It’s the perfect place to escape a little drizzle and they often show some more artsy films that are amazing to see. 

That being said, if cinemas aren’t your thing, you might wanna give this spot a miss. 

7.) See the Seven Sisters

 Now, if you fancy a little jaunt out of Brighton, head over to the Seven Sisters that call this coastline home. Perched about 40-minutes from the centre of Brighton, it’s one of the best things to do if you fancy a little break from city life. 

Visit the area around Seven Sisters Country Park and head around the country paths that follow the cliffs themselves. Just one word of caution always is cautious and sensible when near the tops of these paths. It’s never worth taking the risk of going to the edge, especially as the cliffs are soft and often fall. 

That being said, it’s still one of the best things to do in Brighton when you want to escape the city. 

8.) Explore the Brighton Art Museum and Gallery

Perched with the Royal Pavilion Garden, the Brighton Art Museum and Gallery is one of the best things to do in Brighton if you fancy dipping into a little culture. 

Once inside, make sure to visit their fine art galleries, queer galleries and all the art. It’s so great to see. 

Also, for a great place to stay, check into the Brighton Grand that’s right on the seafront. 

9.) Head up the Brighton i360

One of the newer but still one of the best things to do in Brighton, the i360 observation deck is well worth a little gander if you love a view. Tickets typically cost around £15 but they also have a heap of special events that go on every week. 

For instance, you can even book tickets for a Pride silent disco or even yoga sessions high in the sky. 

Afterwards, pop over to Chamuyo who serve up the best steaks in the city. 

10.) Find Beacon Mill, Rottingdean

Just outside of the city itself, Beacon Mill is a smock mill that’s pretty iconic and dates back over 200 years. It’s pretty easy to find and right in the centre of Rottingdean near the coastline itself. 

Afterwards, head over to Bom-Bane’s for an intimate meal in the city. Just make sure to reserve a table. Spaces fill up fast. 

11.) Enjoy the beach

Of course, you can’t forget a little time on the beach in Brighton, especially on a sunny day! Grab your sunscreen, rent a deck chair and gorge on all the ice cream you can.

It’s one of the best things to do in Brighton if you want a more chilled out vibe when visiting the city. 

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How To Spend A Weekend In Brighton

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Brighton is a beautiful, vibrant, alternative, paradise on the South Coast of England, and I absolutely loved visiting it last summer!

Despite living in London for seven years I haven’t explored much else in England, so when my friends suggested spending a weekend in Brighton for my birthday, I was very excited!

It’s a city that is in love with all things retro (evidenced by the surplus of famous Brighton vintage shops) and a passion for independent establishments.

It’s full of flea markets, bric-a-brac boutiques, and other unique stores that all give it a really cool and hipster vibe.

Brighton is also an incredible city for music and cultural activities, from theatre to street art and everything in between! On every corner you will easily find independent eateries, hipster coffee houses and edgy pubs.

If you’re planning a weekend away from the British capital, Brighton is the perfect place to do so.

In this guide I’ve covered everything you need to know to plan your weekend in Brighon, including what to do, where to stay, where to eat and more. So let’s jump straight in!

• 1.1.1 Wander around The Lanes
• 1.1.2 Visit the Royal Pavillion
• 1.1.3 Chill at Brighton Beach
• 1.1.4 Discover Brighton Palace Pier
• 1.1.5 Enjoy the Brighton Nightlife
• 1.2.1 Have brunch in the Lanes
• 1.2.2 See the view from the British Airways i360
• 1.2.3 Explore the Street Art in Brighton
• 2.1 Accommodation in Brighton

The lively and colourful streets of Brighton in summer

Weekend Break in Brighton: Itinerary

Weekend breaks in Brighton are the best way to experience it, so I’ve put together this Brighton travel guide to help you plan your trip .

It’s a breakdown of how I would spend an ideal Brighton city break and I think it’ll set you up for the best weekend break Brighton has to offer!

Day 1 in Brighton

On your first day in Brighton, you should aim to visit the city’s most iconic sights and attractions.

I’ve planned out a fun-filled first day that will immerse you in Brighton’s famous culture. This is how I would spend a day in Brighton if I only had one to spend!

Wander around The Lanes

When people ask me what to do during Brighton weekend breaks, I always tell them to start with The Lanes. The Lanes are the historic quarters of Brighton, and arguably the city’s best feature!

North Laine Bazaar in Brighton, a great spot for all things vintage!

They’re a network of streets (or lanes, as the name would suggest), that contain the majority of Brighton’s boutiques, vintage shops, curio stores, art galleries, and cultural establishments.

If you’re looking for a slice of cool Brighton culture, or to add an alternative splash to your Brighton shopping, The Lanes is the place to go! Spend some time floating around The Lanes and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

The streets are bustling and alive with a unique off-beat energy; Brighton has cultivated a really cool cultural scene full of fun-loving alternative people, who are warmly welcoming and always smiling!

Some of the vintage market stalls you can find around the Lanes in Brighton

More vintage shops in the Lanes of Brighton

Wander between the myriad of curious independent shops, and poke your head inside to discover some of Brighton’s treasures.

Expect everything from vintage clothes and record stores to funky coffee houses and antique jewellers. I could spend days exploring and getting lost in The Lanes!

Tip – The shops in The Lanes typically don’t open until 11 am on weekends, so start off your morning with some coffee and a bite to eat at one of the awesome hipster cafés.

Wandering around the Lanes and cute shopping streets of Brighton

Visit the Royal Pavillion

Brighton’s Royal Pavillion is one of the most striking sights in the city. It’s a heavily decorated, domed building that appears to be straight out of 18th century India! That’s because, in some ways, it is.

With roots dating back to the late 1700s, the palace was designed by John Nash in the Indo-Saracenic style, which was popular in India at the time.

It was originally built as a seaside residence for King George IV, but the former royal residence is now primarily a tourist attraction.

Rooftop details of the Royal Pavillion in Brighton

The inside is just as grand as the outside, with royal opulence dripping from every corner!

A trip inside is definitely a fascinating experience, but you may choose to save the cost of an entry ticket and just enjoy the architecture from the outside.

The Royal Pavillion Garden that surrounds the building itself is lush and green, and a perfect place to kick back on the grass if you’re visiting in the warmer months.

If you’re planning a winter trip to Brighton, you’ll have the awesome opportunity to ice skate on the grounds of the Pavillion!

This is particularly beautiful at night, with festive lights twinkling all around you and casting a dramatic glow on this exotic palace!

Click here to book an entry ticket to the Royal Pavillion

The Royal Pavillion in Brighton from outside

Chill at Brighton Beach

The UK isn’t particularly renowned for its beaches, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t any good ones.

Brighton Beach might not be the white sand tropical beach of your dreams (the water isn’t quite as clear as I’m used to in Sardinia either), but it’s a really cool spot to hang out and enjoy Brighton’s unique atmosphere.

The beach is made up of tiny rocks and pebbles, but don’t worry, they’re all really smooth and surprisingly comfortable! In winter you can take a blanket and a bottle of wine, and cuddle up with loved ones while you enjoy the view.

In summer you can get your tan on and enjoy the sweet sunshine to the soundtrack of the waves. If you’re visiting in summer just be ready for it to be incredibly busy, the Brits love soaking in the sunshine as soon as it comes out!

After all, Brighton is where most people spend their summer holidays in Great Britain .

Brighton has an active port, so there are plenty of ships and boats cruising around the beach and harbour.

Watching them make their way is really peaceful, particularly at sunset when their lights turn on and twinkle against the colourful sky!

Brighton Beach on a sunny summer day

Discover Brighton Palace Pier

A stroll down the Brighton Palace Pier is a whirlwind adventure that conjures images of Coney Island with its fantastical fairground attractions and classic late 19th-century design.

It’s an English seaside classic, fully equipped with arcades, restaurants, cocktail bars, ice cream vendors, and even a fully operational amusement park!

It’s a massive structure, extending over ½ a kilometre out into the sea. It starts off relatively narrow by the shore but opens out at the end, where the amusement park is located.

Take a walk to the end of the pier along the slatted boardwalk, and peer down between the planks to see the water flowing far underfoot!

Brighton Palace Pier

A visit to the pier is an absolute must-do while in Brighton, no matter what kind of trip you’re after. It’s not only an iconic Brighton experience, but it also caters to all kinds of travellers with its diversity.

Whether you want to ride the rides, play a VR game, or enjoy an ice cream or cocktail overlooking the sea, you’ll be happy that you visited Brighton Pier.

My personal favourite way to enjoy the pier is to settle down at one of the many cute bars and sip on a drink as the sun sets over the sea.

The sunset over Brighton as seen from the Brighton Palace Pier

Enjoy the Brighton Nightlife

Brighton is renowned for its varied and infectious nightlife. The options are limitless, from techno clubs to 1960’s throwback bars and live performances of every kind!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Brighton tonight, you’re in luck, every night is a good night in Brighton!

It’s a city known for its incredible music scene, with a plethora of cool live music venues pouring top-notch tunes into the air every night of the week.

There are plenty of talented musicians who call the city home, and big-name artists make frequent appearances on the scene.

The fun fair / arcade at the end of Brighton Palace Pier, also a popular spot in evenings!

The club scene is equally as diverse, with dozens of clubs playing a wide variety of music, from techno and house to classic rock n’ roll. If you’re in the mood to dance, Brighton has you covered!

If you’d prefer to kick back with a drink, there are also plenty of cool bars and pubs. Try the Plotting Parlour for some chilled out evening drinks and a great vibe. You’ll feel as if you were exploring bars in old town Scottsdale .

The cultural connoisseurs among you will be pleased to know that Brighton is also home to a number of performing arts venues.

Whether you’re after West End theatre, musicals, or stand up comedy, you won’t have a problem filling your evening with vibrant cultural entertainment.

The colourful streets of Brighton

Brighton Music Hall and The Mesmerist are great places to find local music talent, and Maggie Mae’s serves up live music as delectable as their cocktails.

Brighton Dome is a classic venue for big concerts and comedy nights, while Coalition is a killer club with a diverse setlist. There’s a never ending list of things to do in Brighton at night!

Be sure to check out what’s on in Brighton to find things to do in Brighton this weekend!

The cute streets of the Lanes in Brighton

Day 2 in Brighton

After an intense first day in Brighton, I’ve planned a more relaxed itinerary for your second day, so that you have some time to spend however you choose.

There’s plenty to see in Brighton, and one of my favourite things to do in any city is jus wander around and explore!

Have brunch in the Lanes

The lanes offer more than just bric-a-brac boutiques and vintage stores; there are dozens of amazing little restaurants, perfect for a mid-morning brunch!

Take a leisurely stroll from your accommodation to The Lanes, and sift around for the perfect brunch spot.

The Breakfast Club Brighton serves some brilliant breakfast treats, and IL Bistro is a classic British steakhouse with wonderful outdoor seating.

If you don’t eat meat, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options, thanks to Brighton’s thriving veggie scene!

So you won’t have to venture far to find something plant-based. Wander around The Lanes for a while after your meal; there’s plenty to see, so you definitely will have missed some stuff on your first day.

Brunching in Brighton

See the view from the British Airways i360

After your relaxing mid-morning feast, wander down toward the beach for a panoramic experience. The British Airways i360 is a unique viewing tower right by the seashore!

At this Brighton attraction, visitors soar 138 meters up into the sky in a futuristic glass bubble that’s wrapped around a central pole.

This allows for amazing 360-degree views of the city and the meandering coastline on which it’s set. The sprawling vistas extend from the Brighton Pier to Brighton’s rolling inland hills and beyond.

There’s even a bar on board the bubble, so you can sip on a cocktail or some bubbly while floating above the city! I recommend that you book your tickets online before you go in order to guarantee a spot.

Click here to book your ticket to see the best view in Brighton!

The British Airways i360 panoramic deck

Explore the Street Art in Brighton

Brighton’s cool culture permeates the city streets in the form of art as well as atmosphere. The city is home to a thriving street art scene, with colourful murals and vibrant graffiti lining the streets and alleyways!

It’s a hotspot for graffiti artists and one of the UK’s key cities for urban art, with an ever-changing landscape of colour to keep your eyes entertained.

If you take a stroll down London Road, you can even spot a classic Banksy original featuring two policemen kissing! The street art in Brighton is a must-see on any weekend itinerary.

One of the many murales in Brighton

Where to stay for a Brighton weekend away

I recommend staying close to The Lanes and the seafront during your Brighton weekend break. This is where you’ll find most of the action and attractions!

North Laine is a really cool neighbourhood just north of The Lanes (as you may have imagined from the name), that is considered the cultural quarters of the city.

The bustling city center lies to the west of The Lanes, making it a central and convenient spot, while Kemptown lies on the seafront to the East. Kemptown is a hub for Brighton’s LGBTQ community and another great place to stay.

You could also stay amongst the hills and colourful houses of Hanover, although it’s a little further from the sea.

Brighton Palace Pier at sunset

Accommodation in Brighton

There are loads of fantastic accommodation options for weekend breaks to Brighton, whether you’re looking to splash on a luxury hotel or for a cosy AirBnb in Brighton .

Although there aren’t many hostel options in Brighton, S eadragon Backpackers is the best of the bunch if you’re looking for cheap accommodation.

If you’d prefer to indulge in a luxury hotel, The Square Hotel Brighton is a great choice, and is set in a wonderful location.

My dream option however, although it’s a little pricey, is The Lanes Residence . It’s a light and airy apartment set in a historic building above the legendary bustle of The Lanes.

The good news is that it sleeps 6 people, so the cost can easily be divided if you’re travelling as part of a group! I haven’t had the opportunity to stay there myself, but I’ve heard great things, and it looks absolutely stunning.

We stayed at a small but cosy AirBnb right on the beach, about a 15-minute walk from Brighton Pier. It was spacious and with nice seaviews, but a little far from everything.

Book your stay at our lovely beachfront Airbnb here!

The beach in Brighton right in front of our AirBnb

Final thoughts on our weekend in Brighton

Brighton is a perfect city break destination for every kind of traveller, whether you’re a foodie, a coffee connoisseur, vintage fanatic, or a big fan of shopping.

It’s a music lover’s dream, a night owl’s fantasy, and in my opinion, one of the coolest cities in the UK ! It’s the perfect place to escape from London for a weekend.

Despite living in London for so long, until I came to Brighton I had only spent a weekend away in Bath , I really need to get out of London more and see more of England!

Up next on my UK bucket list are a few days in Dorset , hiking in Lake District and a visit to Stonehenge.

Have you been to Brighton? I’d love to hear about your adventures in this fabulous city and your favourite things to do in Brighton.

Leave your stories in a comment below! I hope you find this guide useful in planning your own weekend in Brighton.

People eating outside in the colourful streets of Brighton on a sunny summer weekend

Looking for more UK travel tips? Check out these guides:

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Home > United Kingdom > 16 Things To Do Alone in Brighton: Solo Travel in Brighton

16 Things To Do Alone in Brighton: Solo Travel in Brighton

By Dymphe / February 17, 2023

Looking for things to do alone in Brighton ? There are lots of great activities for solo travel in Brighton that will make your trip amazing!

Brighton is an amazing place in the United Kingdom . You find it on the south coast of England and going there is wonderful. Some of the best sights in the city are Brighton Palace Pier and Royal Pavilion.

This city is also amazing for solo travelers. There is a lot to do when you're alone. Whether you want to meet new people or spend time by yourself, there are lots of options.

For example, one of the best activities for solo travel in Brighton is exploring the food of the city with a group. This is a lot of fun if you want to make friends. And besides that, it's a great way to get to know the city.

If you want to relax, going for a walk at the Victoria Gardens is great. Besides that, there are many other relaxing things to do alone in Brighton.

Furthermore, the city has more to offer for solo travelers! Looking for a very unique experience? Then do a zip line experience in the city! And do you love nature? Then you can do a tour of the Seven Sisters and South Downs. This city has a lot to offer if you're alone!

Table of Contents

1. Discover the Food of the City With a Group: Fun Thing To Do Alone in Brighton To Make Friends

If you want to explore the food scene of the city, this is one of the best things to do alone in Brighton for you!

You can join the " Eat Drink Smile Repeat Brighton " group for this.

This is a group of many people that has lots of different events that you can attend.

These events vary a lot.

For example, the group organizes restaurant visits and tastings. This is a lot of fun for solo travel in Brighton if you like food.

Besides that, you can go to many other fun activities through this group. For example, there are also sports events that you can go to!

These events are great to get to know the city. Moreover, the events are great to meet new people as well!

2. Join a Walking Group in Brighton and Have Fun

Another one of the best things to do alone in Brighton is to go for a walk.

You could do this on your own, but walking can be more fun with others.

For this, you can join the " Sunday Walking and Talking Brighton " Meetup group. This group is perfect for solo travel in Brighton!

This is a group with thousands of members that organizes walking events

Each walk takes about 3 to 5 hours to do. Moreover, keep in mind that the walks of this group take place on Sunday.

And each walk lets you explore lovely places in and near the city. While you do so, you can have fun with others and make new friends!

3. Do a Tour to Seven Sisters and South Downs

Next to the city, you can find a lot of beautiful nature. This nature is great to see during solo travel in Brighton.

What's great to do is a tour from Brighton to the Seven Sisters and South Downs National Park . This tour is perfect if you're looking for things to do alone in Brighton.

At the Seven Sisters, you can find beautiful white chalk cliffs. Also, you can see beautiful views here.

Besides that, you'll go to various other beautiful places during this tour.

In total, the tour takes about 6.5 hours.

4. Do a Zip Line Experience: Great Thing To Do Alone in Brighton That’s Very Unique

One of the most exciting things to do alone in Brighton is doing a Brighton zip line experience .

At this place, you can experience the longest zip line on the southern coast of England.

Moreover, you can see the beautiful beach of the city while going down the zip line! This is a lot of fun. Doing this experience is one of the most amazing activities for solo travel in Brighton.

5. Ride a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Brighton

Here's one of the best things to do alone in Brighton if you want to explore the city.

A great way to do that is by doing a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Brighton .

By riding this bus, you can see all the highlights of the city in 1 or 2 days.

For example, some of the places that you can see are Palace Pier, the Clock Tower, and Brighton Station.

What's great is that you can ride the bus to one of the sights and then leave the bus. You can then explore the sight, and get back on the bus again when you finish. Then, you can explore another lovely sight!

Besides that, you can also hear live audio commentary along the way. Through this information, you can learn much more about what you see during the bus tour! This makes it a very interesting activity.

6. Attend a Brighton Bar Crawl and Explore the City’s Nightlife With a Group

If you want to explore the nightlife of the city during solo travel in Brighton, this is a great activity for you.

You can do a Brighton bar crawl !

During this bar crawl, you can visit several venues in the city in one night. This is a great way to explore what the city has to offer.

Besides that, you do this experience together with other people. So you can have fun while meeting others, and you might make some new friends.

Also, what's great is that this tour includes some free drinks and there is a photographer.

7. Go for a Stroll On Your Own at the Promenade of Brighton Beach

At the promenade of Brighton Beach, there is a lot to see. This is a promenade with lots of shops and entertainment. Going there is one of the most fun things to do alone in Brighton.

Also, you can find lots of restaurants next to the beach and there are other eateries. For example, you can have ice cream here.

Furthermore, going for a walk here and taking in the views of the beach and the sea is very relaxing. This makes walking here on your own lovely!

8. Go For a Relaxing Walk on Your Own at the Victoria Gardens: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Brighton That’s Very Relaxing

The Victoria Gardens are great to visit during solo travel in Brighton.

That's because the gardens feature beautiful nature, including beautiful flowers.

This beautiful nature makes going to the gardens perfect for a relaxing stroll!

Also, you can sit on one of the benches here, and relax while taking in the view of the nature of the park.

9. Do an Axe Throwing Experience

One of the best things to do alone in Brighton is doing a Brighton axe throwing experience .

During this experience, you can learn how to throw Tomahawk Axes on various targets.

This is very fun to do and you have 1 hour during this session.

Also, what's great is that you do this experience together with other people. So you can also socialize during the experience!

What's fun too is that you can compete with other people that take part in the experience at the end. So after practice, you can see who is the best axe thrower!

Because this is such a unique activity that you do with others, this is great during solo travel.

10. Join a Walking Tour: Interesting Thing To Do Alone in Brighton To See the Sights

There are many ways to get to know the city.

One of the best ways to do so is by doing a Brighton walking tour .

A local guide takes you to interesting places in the city that you reach by foot in about 1.5 hours.

You'll visit Brighton Beach, Brighton Palace Pier, and many other spots. At each spot, the local guide tells you great stories.

11. Explore the British Airways i360 By Yourself

The British Airways i360 is a lovely place where you can get beautiful views of Brighton.

This is a very fun observation deck attraction that takes you to a very high point. It's great to go to this place during solo travel in Brighton.

What's amazing is that this is a pod with lots of glass, so the view you can get here will be amazing!

Moreover, from the top, you have a 360-degree view of the city, the beach, and the water.

12. Enjoy the Brighton Palace Pier On Your Own

Another one of the best things to do alone in Brighton is going to the Brighton Palace Pier.

This is one of the most iconic sights in the city, and it is a great place to visit all by yourself.

You can find many attractions and rides at this place that are very fun!

If you go here on your own, you can have a lot of fun!

Also, you can decide what to do and where to go at the pier. For example, if you want to do the same ride over and over again, you can do so!

13. See Art at the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Here's an amazing activity if you love learning new things.

In that case, you should go to the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery.

This is a lovely museum where you can find art and learn about history.

You can find a large permanent collection with all kinds of artworks.

Besides that, this museum showcases temporary exhibitions that relate to the city.

14. See the City With a Bike Tour: Great Thing To Do Alone in Brighton If You Want To See the City

Another great way to explore the city during solo travel in Brighton is by doing a 2.5-hour Brighton bike tour .

During this guided bike tour, a guide takes you to various places in the city and gives you information.

For example, you will visit the Royal Pavilion during this bike tour.

Also, you can see lovely architecture during this bike tour!

What I like about this bike tour as well is that you do it with other people. That way, you can also socialize and connect with other people during the tour!

15. Go to Preston Park and Relax By Yourself

Going to Preston Park is another one of the best things to do alone in Brighton.

This is a very large park that you can find in the city, and it is a lovely place to relax by yourself.

That's because you can find a lot of beautiful nature in the park.

There are many trees and plants, and there are walking paths. Because of this, it is easy to go here for a relaxing stroll by yourself.

Besides that, what's great is that you can find several gardens in the park. These are especially great to visit if you love to see nature.

16. See a Contemporary Art Exhibition On Your Own at the Fabrica Gallery

Do you love contemporary art? If so, you can see this when you're in Brighton.

For this type of art, you can go to the Fabrica Gallery .

This is a contemporary art gallery where you can find lots of different artworks that are great.

Besides that, you can attend talks and workshops at this place, which is fun as well!

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How To Spend An Awesome Day In Brighton: One Day Itinerary

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Wondering how to spend an awesome day in Brighton ? This one-day itinerary will help you make the most of it!

Oh Brighton, you beautiful little seaside city. Less than an hour from London by train, Brighton is one of the most popular day trips in the UK. And that’s no surprise! It’s a quirky, creative town with a beach, making it the perfect getaway from the hectic life in the capital city. 

While you could easily spend a week in Brighton and enjoy some relaxing time on the beach, going on a day trip is just as perfect. You’ll be able to visit some of the main highlights and still have enough time to eat some fresh fish and chips near the beach. I’ve put this itinerary together for my own day in Brighton, so you don’t have to worry about what to do.

Let’s take a look!

How To Spend A Day In Brighton

Since taking a day trip to Brighton is such a great idea (especially if you’re in London), I’ve put together this one day Brighton itinerary to help. It includes all the main highlights in an efficient way so you can make the most of your time in this lovely seaside city.

Visit The Brighton Royal Pavilion

Our first stop when spending the day in Brighton is one of the city’s crown jewels: the Royal Pavilion. This Indian-styled palace seems completely out of place in Britain, something I definitely didn’t expect to find here! But it’s beautiful, and a must-see when in Brighton.

The Royal Pavilion was built over 200 years ago , as ordered by King George IV (then the Prince of Wales). Even though he never visited India, he was intrigued by the style. That’s why his beach residence turned out to look like this. 

It’s not all Indian-styled though. The interior has more Chinese influence. 

In the first World War, the building served as a hospital for Indian soldiers. And today, it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions of Brighton.

While the interior is very impressive, the Royal Gardens are equally as nice. In the 80s/90s, they were put back into the original design. Make sure to free up around two hours for your visit.

Walk Across The Brighton Pier

If you’ve ever come across photos of Brighton, chances are you are already familiar with the famous Pier. The Victorian pier has been part of the city since 1899 and is filled with shops, arcades, and eateries (fresh fish and chips anybody?). It’s probably the best place to enjoy a view of the beach too!

See Brighton From Above In The British Airways i360

You can find this iconic viewing tower a little further down the beach from the pier. The British Airways i360 stands 138 meters tall and gives you stunning panoramic views of the beach and Brighton. There’s even a bar onboard 😉 You can pre-book tickets to ensure you’ve got a spot – but you may want to make sure it’s a bright day when you visit. It’s much better when the weather works in your favour.

Walk Down The Beachfront Promenade & See Brighton’s Beach

Brighton’s beach is not made out of sand, but pebbles. Coming from the Netherlands, where all beaches are sandy, it was quite a surprise! However, it still makes for a good spot to sunbathe if the weather allows it. 

But since we’re only spending one day in Brighton, you may want to skip the sunbathing and walk the beachfront promenade instead. Swirling through the pebbles, the four-mile-long promenade gives you the perfect opportunity for a lovely walk along the beach, with tons of little shops on the side. 

What stood out to me most about Brighton is how close the beach is to the city centre. I think that’s one of the things people love about this city so much.

Photograph The Colourful Hove Beach Huts

Ever seen pictures of the colourful beach houses in Brighton?

They’re technically not in Brighton but in Hove. But luckily, the promenade stretches all the way to Hove. From Brighton Pier, it’s just over a mile. Especially if the weather is nice, it makes for a lovely walk. If you decide to also add the i360 to your itinerary, from there it’s only a 15-minute walk.

Shop Until You Drop In The Lanes

Back to Brighton to explore the famous Lanes. This network of streets is located in the historic quarter of the city, and it’s the perfect place to shop. Filled with independent boutiques and shops, it’s an absolute must-visit when spending time in Brighton.

You can find the coolest items here. From antiques and vintage clothing to record stores and eateries. The perfect spot for a quick coffee for your afternoon caffeine fix 😉

Spot The Coolest Street Art

While this isn’t really a location or a specific spot in the city, it still deserves a mention in this post. Brighton is a very creative city, and that’s seen back in its street art. The city is filled with the most beautiful murals and colourful graffiti. Especially near the North Laine (not the Lanes, this is a different area), you can find a ton of cool graffiti artwork.

Eat Fresh Fish & Chips Near The Beach

What’s a visit to one of the UK’s best seaside towns without having some fresh fish and chips, am I right? As mentioned earlier, you can get some delicious fish and chips on Brighton Pier – I can’t think of a better place to enjoy such a traditional dish, near the sea! Beware of the seagulls though 😉 They also love some of that fish!

Best Times To Visit Brighton

Being a seaside town, Brighton is best enjoyed with the sun out. But since it’s still England, you can never be 100% sure you’re avoiding the rain 😉 Still, the best months to visit Brighton are between May and September . The temperature is better and there is less chance of rain. Keep in mind that July and August are peak tourist months in Brighton, so it can get very busy.

How To Get To Brighton

Brighton is the perfect day trip from London because it takes under an hour to get there by train. It’s no surprise that Brighton welcomes 9.5 million day trip visitors every year (!!!). 

By plane: The easiest way to reach Brighton by plane is to fly to London and take the train from there. 

By train: As mentioned previously, taking the train to Brighton is the easiest way to go for a day trip. It’s fast and you can reach it from London in under an hour. 

If you’re coming from other cities in the UK, you can also take the train. But make sure to check how long it takes, because it may be worth booking a weekend in Brighton rather than a day. For example, it takes over four hours!

By bus: Another, more budget-friendly option, is taking the bus. From London, you can get a coach ticket for as little as £9 and it will roughly take an hour and a half. Once again, from other cities in the UK, the trip could be a little too long to only spend a day in Brighton, so you may want to extend your stay.

Add More Cities To Your UK Itinerary

Spending a day in Brighton is fantastic, but why not add some more cities to your itinerary? There are so many great UK city breaks available, so why not spend a weekend in Bath or two days in Bristol ?

If you want to come up north, I highly recommend visiting Manchester for the weekend or explore York in two days .

Conclusion – How To Spend A Lovely Day In Brighton

Taking a day trip to Brighton from London is never a bad idea! But even if you decide to stay for a weekend because you’re coming from further away, this gorgeous city won’t disappoint. 

I hope this Brighton itinerary has helped you plan your own trip or at least given you some ideas on what to do in Brighton. I definitely cannot wait to return!

What can you do in Brighton for free?

Visiting Brighton doesn’t have to be expensive. There are a lot of free things to do , including the Brighton Pier, relaxing on the beach, Brighton’s fishing museum, and the Brighton Marina.

How many days do you need in Brighton?

While spending a day in Brighton gives you enough time to see all the highlights, I recommend going for two or three days. This way, you can visit all the sights but also have some time to enjoy the beach.

How do I spend the day in Brighton?

In the morning, visit the Brighton Royal Pavilion and Brighton Pier. After that, enjoy a panoramic view of the city in the BA i360, walk the promenade towards the Hove beach huts. End your afternoon by shopping in the Lanes, and finish the day with some fresh fish and chips near the water. For more information, you can check out my Brighton day trip itinerary in the article above.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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A weekend guide to Brighton, England

Updated On 9th December, 2021

Brighton is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in England , it’s even a strong contender for the  best places to visit in the UK. There are so many fun things to do and places to visit in Brighton, and in this blog post I’m going to share some of my favourites with you!

What makes Brighton one of the best places to visit in the UK is the colour within the city. Brighton is full of colourful houses, stunning street art and rainbow flags, best known for being the LGBTQ+ capital of the UK. But that’s not all it’s got going for it! The alternative lifestyle, the buzzing nightlife, shopping on the Lanes, fish and chips on the pier and the surrounding countryside for wonderful walks in England make Brighton a unique place to visit on your UK road trip !

Whether you’re staying in  Brighton for a weekend , or just a day, you will definitely have time to explore and enjoy some of the best things to do in Brighton. Don’t forget to pack your camera, so that you can take photos of the wonderful street art and colourful streets in Brighton !

Prior to this recent visit, I hadn’t been to Brighton in years. It was about time I went back to enjoy this city with a pair of fresh eyes, so I packed an overnight bag and headed to the English coast. As usual, I packed in a load of exploring during my weekend in Brighton and have shared all of my top tips, finds and information in this Brighton blog with you!

In this Brighton travel guide I am going to share with you the best places to stay in Brighton, the best things to do in Brighton, the best places to visit in Brighton and my favourite adventures so far.

Other travel guides you might find useful…

• 30 places you must visit in the UK
• 28 best places to visit in England
• My weekend guide to Brighton
• The best things to do in England
• 18 unique things to do in England
• The best places to visit in Surrey, England
• The best things to do in Cornwall, England
• Top things to do in Bournemouth, England
• Weekend guide to the Isle of Wight
• The 15 UK National Parks on a map: Which should you visit?

Where is Brighton?

Brighton is a seaside resort situated on the South Coast of England. It’s in the county of East Sussex, and about 1hr from  London  by train, 3 hours from Bristol, 2.5 hours from  Bournemouth , or 4.5 hours from  Leeds .

How to get to Brighton…

Brighton is well linked to London and the South East of England by train. Alternatively, you can drive, but parking once you’re there can be tricky.

Once you’re in Brighton itself, everything is within easy walking distance so you won’t need a car to get around.

If you’re in a hotel, AirBnb or staying at a friends, be sure to check the parking situation and whether you have a space allocated. Otherwise it’s a little like London: tricky or expensive. Parking can cost up to £20 a day, which can be a bulky expense on top of your trip.

The train station is right in the centre and walking distance from the centre and the beach front. A great option to avoid car hassle, and more environmentally friendly too!

If you’re coming from further afield, it’s easiest to fly into London Gatwick. But, you can get to Brighton from most London airports and from Southampton Airport fairly easily by public transport.

• Check out flights on skyscanner here.
• Book train tickets with thetrainline.com here.
• Get £25 off your first Airbnb here.

Visiting the UK in the winter? Here are 12 tips for adding adventure into your UK winter trip.

Where to stay in Brighton…

Deciding on where to stay in Brighton completely depends on the type of stay you are after. Are you looking for a weekend staycation in a coastal bed and breakfast? A cheap hostel room? A luxury seafront hotel? Luckily, Brighton can do it all!

For example, if you want to stay in a hostel in Brighton, YHA have their YHA Brighton hostel. This is the the perfect option for budget accommodation with close access to places to visit and things to do in Brighton. Book your YHA stay here.

If the price is right then grab a hotel in the centre or even on the beach front. Some of my favourite seafront hotels in Brighton include…

• Queen’s Hotel
• Thistle Brighton Hotel
• Umi Hotel Brighton
• Hilton Brighton
• The King’s Hotel Brighton

The first time I went to Brighton, I stayed at The Kings Hotel on the seafront. The location was perfect and it was clean with great service.

Top tip: Hotels can get pretty pricey and booked up in the summer months of June – September. Try and book ahead to secure a good deal & ensure you actually get a bed! Use booking.com for great deals.

If prices are looking too high, then you can often save money booing an Airbnb. Air Bnb is also perfect if you’re looking for more of a countryside experience. See pictures below of the Shepherds hut we stayed in!

Book this exact Shepherd’s hut here . To get £30 off your first AirBnb experience, click here.

See a bucket list of unique Airbnb stays in the UK here .

Places to eat in Brighton…

Alongside a whole load of fish and chip takeaways, Brighton delighted me with its extensive offering of vegan, vegetarian and health conscious eateries. One of the best things to do in Brighton is to eat your way through the very accommodating and inclusive food scene!

Whatever it is that takes your fancy, Brighton does a flippin’ impressive job to accommodate!

• Fish and chips on the pier. There is no shortage of fish and chip shops if you fancy them!
• The Hilton for afternoon tea with a sea view or a gorgeous Sunday Roast
• The Tempest , where we enjoyed cold ciders, an insane pulled pork burger and a beetroot and goats cheese tart, which was too, amazing!
• Food for friends, in The Lanes, which I would highly recommend. Even if you love a burger you’ll love this restaurant, so don’t be put off by the ‘vegetarian’ thing.
• Choccywoccydoodah.
• Meat Liquor
• Marmalade cafe
• Red Rooster
• Harry Ramsden’s
• Tropical sushi
• Yefsis of Greece
• The Bok Shop
• Alcampo Lounge

Brighton of course also has all your usual chain restaurants, as well as plenty more food options along the seafront and in The Lanes. Comment on this post if you have any more recommendations!  

See the 30 best places to visit in the UK here

Places to drink in Brighton…

Brighton not only has a thriving health and wellness scene, but also an amazing nightlife! (It’s all about balance, right?) One of the best things to do in Brighton is to head to town as the sun goes down and watch the city come to life after dark over a drink or two.

• Juice 42 , for gorgeous raw juices
• The Tempest Bar
• Fortune of War
• Riki Tik Beach Bar – A slice of Jamaica, amazing rum punches and right on the beach front!
• Mash Tun Pub for a more laid back atmosphere
• Pitcher & Piano for cocktails (expresso martinis are amazing! Also picks up with music and atmosphere in the evenings)
• The Cricketers , which is the oldest pub in Brighton.
• Shuffle Bar
• Twisted Lemon
• Revolution , for a night out

Top tip: Head to Trading Post Coffee Roasters for the best coffee in Brighton. Wow. Prepare for it to be busy – you’ll understand why when you get your hands on a cup! They do breakfast too and the yummiest vegan cakes!

See my essential packing list for a UK road trip here.

The best things to do in Brighton…

1. release your inner child at brighton pier..

One of the best things to do in Brighton, and certainly one of the most fun, is to remember what it is to play on Brighton Pier. Head to the arcades for a good session of fun and games and then head out and enjoy some of the rides on Brighton Pier before enjoying some fish and chips or fresh doughnuts to recover some of your energy. Make sure you don’t leave without buying a stick of Brighton rock candy!

2. Go shopping in The Lanes and stop for coffee afterwards.

If you’re planning a visit to Brighton you’ve probably heard of The Lanes, a collection of narrow lanes in Brighton city centre famous for their vintage shops and independent cafes. One of the best things to do in Brighton is to spend a morning or afternoon browsing the vintage and independent shops, stopping for coffee when you need a break.

3. Explore Brighton’s cultural, arts and music scene.

Brighton is pretty famous for having lots of fun things to do and unique events! See whats on at The Brighton Centre if you’re looking for live music, or what’s on at the The Brighton Dome if you’re more into theatre and dance. Alternatively, head to Brighton and keep an eye out for spontaneous events when you’re there: I was lucky enough to stumble across a VW camper exhibition!

4. Eat all the food, and then some more.

As well as all the foodie suggestions above, there are two more fun things to do in Brighton if you’ve got a sweet tooth. First, watch Fudge being made in Roly’s Fudge Pantry & choose your favourite from the numerous flavours. Just make sure you take some home for souvenirs!

Alternatively (or additionally!) you could book onto a cake making class at www.angelfoodkitchen.co.uk – this would definitely be one of the best things to do in Brighton when it’s raining!

5. Head to Globalls for some fluorescent crazy golf!

Globalls has got to be one of the most fun things to do in Brighton… glow in the dark, flurorescent crazy golf! In teams of up to 5, take on the mini golf courses surrounded by positive, bright colours. Who’s going to get the first hole in one?!

The ultimate guide to planning a full UK road trip ft. the best places to visit in England, NI, Scotland and Wales.

6. Enjoy a morning walk along the seafront with a coffee in hand.

While you’re in Brighton, take advantage of being near the water! One of the best things to do in Brighton is to get up early, grab a takeaway coffee, and head out for a seafront walk in the sunshine. The pier is particularly beautiful at sunrise if you’re an early riser, but if not, don’t panic – sunset is stunning too!

7. Hike Devil’s Dyke for amazing views of South Downs National Park.

Take the 77 bus to Devil’s Dyke in West Sussex for some stunning views across South Downs National Park through the countryside. The hiking trails here are some of the best walks in England .

If you’re thinking of extending your stay in Brighton, check out more of the best things to do in South Downs National Park here.

See my 16 hikes in the UK that you cannot miss here.

8. Head up the British Airways i360 for panoramic views.

If you’re looking for panoramic views across Brighton, Sussex & the South Downs , and the Isle of Wight, going up the  British Airways i360 must be on your list of best things to do in Brighton. The 360 views are in the name, and you get to enjoy them all from the glass pod at the top of this 450ft tower. You can also climb an additional 30m to the top of the tower if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush! Check out tickets here.

9. Learn about the Sussex dolphins on a sunset wildlife cruise.

Golden hour is beautiful… but when dolphins are involved, it’s much more exciting! Sightings of these beautiful creatures this close to the coast are rare, but one of the best things to do in Brighton is to enjoy a Sunset Wildlife Cruise to learn about Sussex dolphins, see the city from a new perspective, watch the sun go down, and support a great charity!

See 28 places you should visit in England here.

10. Enjoy a bike or walking tour of Brighton.

If you’re short of time in Brighton, one of the best things to do so that you see more of the city is to take a bike or walking tour.

Bike hire is available in many places in the city, or you could book onto a the Jolly Explorer’s Brighton Bike Tour for a guided experience!

Prefer being on foot? Brighton is a really walkable city, so you can also enjoy a walking tour around the main parts. If you’ve seen a fair amount of Brighton and you’re looking for a more specific walking tour, try a street art walking tour or this walking tour to learn about over 200 years of LGBTQ+ history.

11. Do the Brighton zip wire along the beach front!

The Brighton zipwire is the longest on the South Coast, and definitely one of the most fun things to do in Brighton! There are twin wires, so why not do it alongside a friend?! Book here.

12. Check out the street art and colourful houses in Brighton.

If you’re looking for bright colours and unique street art, Brighton is the place to be. From the Banksy Kissing Police piece outside the train station, to John Lennon on Upper Gardner Street, there are plenty of places to see really cool street art in Brighton.

Blaker Street is one of the best places to see the colourful houses that Brighton is famous for, but there are many more too. For more colourful streets to visit in Brighton, check out this post by Global Traveller Charlotte.

13. Wake up and reconnect at Beach Box Spa.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Brighton, Beach Box Spa is where you want to be. Beach Box is an all year around wood-fired public beach sauna spa, based on Brighton beach. There are 4 unique saunas to choose from, each with stunning views of the beach and Pier so that you can really escape the hustle and bustle of the city, relax and check in with yourself. You can also opt for handmade body treatments, leaf whisks and ice baths!

Book your trip to Beach Box Spa here. 

14. Enjoy a big screen movie experience with Luna cinema.

One of the best things to do in Brighton is definitely heading to the Luna Beach cinema in summer to enjoy movies from the beach. Pack your popcorn and enjoy the ultimate summer cinematic experience, watching popular movies on the 10-metre outdoor LED screen. Check the summer schedule here. 

Discover beyond the UK with these 15 epic road trips to go on in Europe.

15. Tour the Royal Pavilion.

We couldn’t write a list of the best things to do in Brighton without mentioning the Royal Pavillion, one of the most beautiful buildings in Brighton. What used to be the pleasure palace of King George IV was transformed by John Nash between 1815 and 1823 into one of the most stunning buildings in Britain. Expect a beautiful mix of Regency grandeur with Indian architecture and Chinese inspired interiors.

Book tickets for your tour here.

16. Learn to SUP on Hove Lagoon.

If you’re always seeing photos of people having fun out on the water, but you’ve never done stand-up paddle boarding before and you’re feeling a little apprehensive, make sure you visit Hove Lagoon while you’re in Brighton. At the Hove Lagoon Watersports centre they’ll take you through the process step-by-step so you’re feeling more confident for future water adventures!

Already an SUP expert? Check out their SUP Yoga or SUP on the sea sessions, or try something different like wakeboarding or windsurfing!

Find out more about Hove Lagoon Watersports centre here.

See the best walks and hikes to go on in England here.

Have you been to Brighton?

What are your favourite things to do in Brighton? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring…

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In this section you will find a complete list of the 51 travel agencies in Brighton , with all the necessary information so you can choose the one that best suits your needs, so if you are planning a vacation or a business trip and you need expert help, you have come to the right place.

Each travel agency has its own page where you can find their contact information, location and the services they offer. In addition, to help you find a travel agency in Brighton you can read reviews and ratings from other customers who have worked with them, so you can make an informed decision.

51 Travel agencies in Brighton

Trailfinders Brighton

Responsible Travel

Flight Centre

Personal Travel Agents

Travel Nation

1 Stop Travel

Global Links Travel

COGO Travel

Fiona Bateman Travel Counsellor

Southern Cross Travel Limited

Bargain Travel Bureau Ltd

somewherespecial travel

The Villa Agency Ltd

Stg Travel Group Ltd.

Brighton Wanderlust

OutOfOffice.com

Freelance Journalist, wine, food and travel.

Class Tours Ltd

Vanya Jenkins Travel Counsellor

Only in Brighton! Tours

Marlborough Travel

Family Trips

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JG Travel Group

Travomart UK

Rickshaw Travel

Eclipse Leisure Ltd

Yvonne Barker - Not Just Travel

Fitzroy Travel

Brighton Urban Adventures - Intrepid Urban Adventures

Equity Inspiring Learning Ltd

Hays Travel Hove

Holiday-n-Adventure Ltd.

Tour Monkey

Blake Private Travel

Brighton Diver Rampion wind farm tours

Selective Asia

Experience Education

Journeys by Design

Ski Holiday Extras

Travel Counsellors- Dom Pokropek

SFC Travel ( Spoilt For Choice )

Cortijo Romero

Rocketski.Com

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Home » Europe » United Kingdom » England » Brighton

10 COOLEST Hostels in Brighton (2024 • Insider Guide!)

Brighton, England is one of the coolest, hippest cities in all of the UK. And travelers are taking notice as it’s one of England’s up and coming backpacker destinations.

But for all the backpacker’s headed to Brighton, there are only a handful of awesome hostels, which is the exact reason we put together this guide of the best hostels in Brighton.

Written by travelers, for travelers, this brutally honest review of the best hostels in Brighton, England is designed to do one thing – help you book a hostel.

To do this we listed the best-reviewed hostels in Brighton, and then divvied them up into different categories. All you have to do is scroll, find the one that fits your travel style, and book (before they fill up!).

Organized by your travel needs, these are the top hostels in Brighton.

Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Brighton

The 10 best hostels in brighton, what to pack for your brighton hostel, why you should travel to brighton, faq about hostels in brighton.

• Best Hostel for Couples in Brighton – YHA Brighton

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Finding the perfect hostel can be a chore. That’s why we’ve carefully selected the best hostels in Brighton, and gone one step further to separate them into different categories based on their suitability for different travellers.

Whether you want the cheapest Brighton hostel, the best party hostel in Brighton, the best Brighton hostel for couples, or the best hostel for solo travellers in Brighton, you’re sure to find the ideal Brighton backpackers hostel for you.

Smart Brighton Beach – Best Cheap Hostel in Brighton #3

Another recommended hostel in Brighton, Smart Brighton Beach is a terrific budget base close to the town and beach. Bed down in a 21-person dorm for the cheapest prices. Alternatively, if that’s too many people in one room for your liking, there are also mixed dorms for 15, nine, six, and four. Access is by keycard. Tuck into a free breakfast each morning to shake off any hangovers before heading out to explore or be a beach bum. A kitchen, lounge, and laundry facilities add to the comfort. Definitely one of the best budget hostels in Brighton.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

YHA Brighton – Best Hostel for Couples in Brighton

The cosy double rooms at YHA Brighton, not to mention the great facilities, make it our winner when it comes to the best hostel for couples in Brighton. Private rooms are en-suite, and there are also single-gender dorms that have their own bathrooms too. The onsite restaurant and bar are handy if you don’t want to go too far one evening, and you can easily book a selection of trips onsite to make the most of your stay. Situated close to the sandy beach and pier , the town is just a short walk away from this youth hostel in Brighton.

Kipps Brighton – Overall Best Hostel in Brighton

Our pick for the overall best hostel in Brighton in 2020, Kipps Brighton has a fab location close to the heart of the action. It’s near the beach, the pier, the Lanes, the gay area, the killer nightlife , and transport hubs. Getting around and exploring Brighton couldn’t be any easier! Chat with friends old and new over a few bevies in the bar, chill on the terrace when the sun’s out to play, unwind in the common room, and cook a feast in the kitchen. The mixed dorms sleep ten and there are various private rooms too. It’s definitely a top hostel in Brighton that’s for sure.

SoBo House Brighton – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Brighton

SoBo House Brighton is the best hostel for solo travellers in Brighton. Choose between mixed and female-only dorms, ranging in size from four to sixteen beds, or benefit from the sociable vibe while still having your own personal space with a stay in a private single room (with shared bathroom). Round-the-clock security at this recommended hostel in Brighton adds to your peace of mind. Pop into the common areas to meet other travellers’ there’s a kitchen, dining area, and comfy lounge with leather sofas and a TV. If you are coming to Brighton for the weekend, book ahead as it can get a bit busy.

HostelPoint Brighton – Best Cheap Hostel in Brighton #1

HostelPoint Brighton is a cheap and cheerful Brighton backpackers hostel. A fun place to stay and welcoming towards party lovers and people celebrating hen parties, stag dos, and other lively events, it’s the best cheap hostel in Brighton. There are mixed and female-only dorms as well as private doubles, ideal if you’re travelling with your significant other or get lucky one night—what happens in Brighton stays in Brighton! A basic breakfast is included each morning and the hostel has a tour desk, kitchen, common room, vending machine, and luggage storage.

Home Brighton – Best Cheap Hostel in Brighton #2

Close to the bus and train stations and all of Brighton’s highlights, Home Brighton is a great backpackers hostel in Brighton for people who want the sociable vibe yet plenty of privacy when they sleep. All beds have curtains, a light, and a power socket, and lockers are available. The bar is lively, with live music, quizzes, and comedy acts throughout the week. Breakfast is free and the hostel has a kitchen, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a chill-out lounge. Animal lovers can rejoice too—they have a pet cat!

Brighton Youthful Hostel … By the Sea – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Brighton

With free Wi-Fi, free-to-use guest PCs, and common areas where you can sit and get your head down, Brighton Youth Hostel … By the Sea is the best hostel for digital nomads in Brighton. Give your brain a morning boost with the free breakfast and refuel anytime you like thanks to the kitchen. For something quick and easy there are vending machines too. When it’s time to unwind veg in front of the TV, chat with other guests, or let loose on the Wii.

Baggies Backpackers Brighton – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Brighton

Baggies Backpackers Brighton has mixed and female-only dorms and four-bed private rooms. A sociable youth hostel in Brighton, the staff members are happy to offer tips and tricks to help you make the most of your stay. If you run out of things to do in Brighton you can hang out here. Mingle and relax in the lounge, complete with a TV and book exchange, surf the free Wi-Fi, cook some comfort food in the kitchen, or head to the playden for games galore. The laundry facilities help you to stay fresh too.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

More of the Best Hostels in Brighton

Still haven’t made your decision? Here are some more Brighton youth hostels to add to your shortlist.

Seadragon Backpackers

A top hostel in Brighton for travellers who prefer a more intimate atmosphere, Seadragon Backpackers has just six rooms and sleeps up to 20 people at any given time. The large and well-equipped basement kitchen lets you really show off your culinary skills and there’s a nice TV lounge too, complete with a book exchange and board games. Freebies include breakfast and Wi-Fi and other perks include bike rental, laundry facilities, and luggage storage.

Happy Brighton

A cool little hostel in Brighton’s centre, Happy Brighton is sure to bring a smile to your face. The staff members are warm and welcoming and the facilities will make you feel right at home. There’s 24-hour security. With mixed and ladies-only dorms, you can choose between a regular bunk bed or a private pod-style bed. Do note that if you stay here you’ll need to check in before reception shuts up shop at 8pm. (There’s no curfew, though—you can come and go as you please once you’ve checked in.)

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Check out our definitive  Hostel Packing list  for our top packing tips!

Thanks for reading our honest reviews of the best hostels in Brighton. We know that this is the best resource on the web, and will absolutely help you book a sweet hostel in Brighton, England alongside our guide to the best neighborhoods to stay in Brighton .

And remember, if you are having a hard time picking which hostel to book, just go for Kipps Brighton. It’s amazing location, full kitchen and bar, stellar reviews and affordable price make it an easy pick.

Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Brighton.

What are the ultimate best hostels in Brighton?

If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Brighton, be sure to start with these: – Kipps Brighton – HostelPoint Brighton – SoBo House Brighton

What are the cheapest hostels in Brighton?

If you’re trying to save up on your trip, be sure to look into these hostels first: – HostelPoint Brighton – Home Brighton – Smart Brighton Beach

What’s the best hostel in Brighton with a private room?

YHA Brighton  is great if you’re travelling as a couple, but you can also get private rooms at Baggies Backpackers & that one is a bit more lively!

Where can I book a hostel for Brighton?

We book most of our hostels through  Hostelworld . It’s the ultimate website to find the best hostel deals worldwide!

How much does a hostel cost in Brighton?

The average price of hostels in Brighton can range from $26 – $33+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.

What are the best hostels in Brighton for couples?

YHA Brighton is a highly-rated hostel for couples in Brighton. It has cosy double rooms and is close to the sandy beach and pier.

What is the best hostel in Brighton near the airport?

The London Gatwick Airport is quite far from Brighton, so it is usually better to find the best place in the area. Once you’re in the city, we highly recommend these awesome hostels: YHA Brighton Seadragon Backpackers

Travel Safety Tips for Brighton

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Over to you

By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Brighton has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!

If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!

• Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in UK for a wealth of info!
• Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Brighton if you’re feeling fancy!
• Check out the best places to stay in Brighton before you arrive.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .
• Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Europe backpacking guide .

Sophie Steinebach

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Getting Around

Brighton & Hove is so compact, that once you’re here, you might find it easiest to explore the city on foot. But whatever you decide, travel in Brighton is easy.

Getting Around Brighton & Hove By Bus

Brighton & Hove buses are very frequent, with many day, week or monthly saver tickets available making them an easy and cost-effective way to explore the city & beyond! They are also award winning and environmentally friendly, with some of the lowest bus exhaust emissions in the world. For the latest pricing information we recommend checking the  Brighton and Hove Bus website  for the latest details.

Breeze up to the Downs

Breeze up to the Downs is a network of three bus services linking the city with some of its most popular countryside destinations. A green and cost effective way to see the  countryside around Brighton and Hove , you can find out more on the  Brighton & Hove City Council website .

Brighton & Hove Buses – Accessible for everyone

Brighton & Hove buses are committed to ensuring their buses are accessible for everyone and they run a number of services to assist people. All buses have ramps for wheelchairs, scooters and buggies and if for any reason a wheelchair cannot board the bus then a complimentary taxi will be provided instead. Brighton & Hove buses also operate a Helping Hands scheme which is a discreet way to inform the driver of any special requirements, for example if you need the driver to face you so that you can lip read. Brighton & Hove is also part of an award winning Talking Bus Stops scheme, which allows visually impaired people to electronically access travel information. Hi-tech signs allows people with visual impairments to receive spoken information on services and travellers can hear which bus stop they are at, which buses are coming and when they will arrive. Up-to-the-minute information also appears in writing on real-time signs.

There are plenty of taxis and taxi ranks in the city centre. You'll find the main ones at East Street, Queen's Square & Hove Town Hall. If you want to book ahead, try:   Brighton & Hove Radio Cabs  - 01273 20 40 60 / 41 41 41

Cycling in Brighton & Hove is quick, easy and enjoyable. The city is part of the National Cycle Network with an official cycle route that runs along the beachfront from east to west. There are other traffic free cycle routes around the city, as well as bridleways and unsurfaced tracks for off-road cyling into the Sussex Downs. Brighton & Hove has its own smart bike share scheme - BTN BikeShare - making it easy to get around by bike.

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For information on parking, see our Parking page .

Accessible Travel

For information on travelling around Brighton & Hove for people with disabilities, visit our  Accessibility  section.

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Brighton and Hove

Cycle/Vehicle Hire

We offer the highest quality Electric Mountain Bike Rentals, Fully Guide Ebike Tours and Minibus Tours around Brighton Coastline, Devils Dyke, Seven Sisters , Local Wine Estates.

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Activity Organiser

So Sussex is an innovative family run company based at Spithurst Hub in the beautiful Sussex countryside. We offer a range of outdoor activities, events, team challenges and festivals for families, schools, companies and visitors to the area.

Establishment Features

• Groups by arrangement - transport can be arranged.
• Groups welcome - maximum group size 60.

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Beryl BTN Bikes is run by Beryl in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council. The bikes are easy to use and are hired through the Beryl app,

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Spirit of Sussex are one of Sussex’s most recognisable coach operators, specialising in high-quality and good-value transport within the UK. As part of the industry-leading Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Company, our customers are guaranteed a safe…

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We offer guided tours of Brighton’s quirky city centre and the gorgeous surrounding countryside and coast.

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Brighton Beach Bikes is the only bike hire located right on Brighton Beach. Hiring a bike from us means you can ride the coastal cycle path for miles in either direction without crossing any roads, perfect for all the family. We are next to the…

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Brighton Marina , Brighton

Electric Bikes Sussex, the only specialist eBike shop in Brighton & Hove. Visit us in Brighton Marina to discover what all the excitement is about. Try, hire, buy or lease an eBike today. Modern eBikes of all types, at competitive prices

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• Family Friendly, Children Welcome
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We have a network of friendly StashPoints where you can store your luggage, near the train station, The Lanes, Hove and (coming in summer) right by the Brighton Palace Pier!

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Portslade, Brighton

Corporate Services / Facilities

Brighton & Hove Radio Cabs has been established for over 50 years and we are the largest privately-owned taxi company on the South-East coast. We specialise in offering an honest, reliable and safe taxi service within the City of Brighton & Hove and…

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Bus / Coach Tour

Brighton City Sightseeing will take you on a fascinating whistle stop tour of the city. Here you can sit back and relax as you cruise by iconic landmarks and attractions while enjoying stunning panoramic views.

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• Groups by arrangement - Large Groups need to pre-book. We offer competitive prices. Please email us on [email protected]
• Groups welcome
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Join your friendly local guide for tours of this unique part of England when we explore the beautiful South Downs and The Seven Sisters.Tours by luxury 16 seat minibus.

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Explore the vineyards of Sussex on board an iconic vintage bus with Great British Wine Tours. Join us for a unique day out tasting award-winning English wines and dining among the vines. Scheduled and private wine tours available for hen parties,…

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Shoreham By Sea

Shoreham (Brighton City) Airport is the oldest licensed airfield in the UK and has a beautiful Grade II* listed art deco terminal building, which is open to the public. The newly operated restaurant and bar is the perfect place to come and watch th

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One of the best ways to discover this area is by bike and to help you explore, we have developed a series of tried and tested bike rides. The rides are graded easy, medium and hard, so no matter your ability you will be able to find something that…

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Set in to the stunning scenery of the South Downs National Park and perfectly placed on the River Arun, Riverside South Downs is the ideal place to refresh and revive your spirits. Being just 5 minutes from historic Arundel, 15 minutes from…

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A beautifully restored routemaster will take you on a tour of Brighton & Hove whilst enjoying a gin, prosecco or champagne afternoon tea

Bounce luggage storage offers a convenient solution for visitors who need to store their bags. Bounce partners with trusted local businesses to provide secure luggage storage options.

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Crowded House

Multi-platinum, Iconic rock band Crowded House announce Gravity Stairs UK and Europe tour.

Tour news follows the release of Crowded Houses’ acclaimed 8th studio album Gravity Stairs, their first release since 2021’s Dreamers Are Waiting. Produced by the band with Steven Schram, the album shows Crowded House in its current incarnation — Finn, Nick Seymour, Mitchell Froom, and Finn’s sons Elroy and Liam — as sharp as ever, feeling musically adventurous, and still capable of reaching the staggering highs that have made them an international favourite.

Gravity Stairs UK and European Tour will showcase the band’s musical evolution and commitment to delivering thought-provoking and inspiring sounds that resonate with fans old and new.

TICKET LIMIT

Age restrictions, tickets on sale, never miss a beat at the brighton centre, accessibility, more live events at the brighton centre.

Cirque The Greatest Show

Jeff Wayne's The War of The Worlds

Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton hosts gala concert to spread word of its charms

NEW BRIGHTON ― One of Beaver County's historic and cultural gems merits more attention from Allegheny County folks.

That's the belief of organizers planning a special concert and gala May 25 at the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton.

Anna Singer, an internationally accomplished opera singer and afternoon on-air host for Pittsburgh classical music station WQED-FM (89.3), will perform on the outdoor patio of the Merrick, accompanied by a pianist-tenor vocalist and a string quartet.

"We'll be doing everything from Broadway to standards to opera; you'll know every tune, even if it's just from a Pizza Hut commercial, or the soundtrack to 'Fatal Attraction,'" Singer said.

Attendees will dine on a buffet meal catered by the Wooden Angel in Bridgewater.

More: 5 romantic restaurants to consider in the Beaver Valley

When it's showtime, the audience will sit on chairs spread out on the Merrick's lush lawn, near a fenced-off opening to the underground tunnel discovered below the Merrick last year that's believed to have been a stop on the Underground Railroad.

The Merrick launched a GoFundMe project to raise money to further explore and preserve the tunnel, hoping to make the New Brighton site more of a tourist attraction/destination, in conjunction with the Merrick's art gallery that showcases centuries-old paintings, and a piano once played by famed Pittsburgh composer Stephen Foster.

"My goal is getting the Merrick on Pittsburgh's regional radar of historic, cultural sites and as a venue for events," Rick Granati, local events planner and rocker who conceived the idea for this show while doing a commercial painting project inside the 1100 Fifth Ave., gallery.

He's got a formal name for this special night: An Aesthete Affair − Where The Elite Meet, Greet & Eat.

A limited number of tickets will be available by calling the Merrick Art Gallery at 724-846-1130 to reserve your place.

"An envelope with a generous donation will be an investment in an unforgettable evening of entertainment and culinary delights by the Wooden Angel along with beer, wine and nonalcoholic beverages," organizers say.

For questions, people also can send an email to [email protected] or stop in the gallery for reservations and more information.

Granati arranged sponsorship from WQED-FM, which he calls "the premier voice of the Pittsburgh Symphony and just about everything cultural in our region. It's the perfect place to advertise the event and the astounding resource of Anna Singer, an incredible artist. who passionately wants to support the gallery."

Singer has performed at opera houses in Europe and the United States, displaying her vocal and dramatic talents in the lead roles of "Madame Butterfly," "Tosca," "Aida," "Salome," "Die Walkure," "Susanna" and others. She had been based in New York before returning home to Pittsburgh in the 1990s to tend to her mother. More than 20 years ago, she joined the staff of classical music station, WQED-FM, as an on-air host and music programmer.

Also an accomplished painter, Singer will display some of her artworks during the gala at the Merrick, where the galleries permanently showcase a collection of French, German, English, and American paintings dating as far back as the 18th century, and featuring examples of Romantic-, Realistic-, and Impressionistic-era art.

Supportive of contemporary and emerging artists, The Merrick also regularly exhibits shows including an annual one featuring high school artists, as well as the Beaver Valley Artists association's annual juried exhibition.

First visiting the Merrick around Christmastime 2022 at Granati's request, Singer felt an immediate connection to the artworks there, inspiring her to create a few paintings of her own.

Singer, of Pittsburgh's Mount Washington neighborhood, also took interest in the sizable doll house display at the Merrick and the overall history of the brick structure, built around 1850 as a passenger station for the Pittsburgh, Fort Wayne and Chicago Railroad, though vacated by 1880 when purchased by New Brighton industrialist Edward Dempster Merrick.

"What an amazing place," Singer said. "I grew up in Pittsburgh and had no idea right around the corner was such an incredible gallery that's free to the public."

Merrick (1832-1911), founder of the namesake art gallery and museum, designated in his will that the site was to remain free and open to the public.

Though looking to give the Merrick a needed revenue boost, the special gala event will be a ticketed affair.

Attendees will experience "where historical classic art and historical classic music merge to celebrate the philanthropic Merrick family and their incredible, historic Merrick Free Art Gallery," Granati said. "We're seeking all regional cultural elite to join us in the celebration."

Setting the concert outdoors, in late spring, will imbue a casual element to an elegant event, Singer said.

"Maybe a little kid will want to get up and dance. There'll be more of a sense of freedom," she said. "It's going to be a lot of fun."

Scott Tady is entertainment editor at The Times and easy to reach at [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton hosts gala concert to spread word of its charms