Brighton offers more than its 18th-century charms: modern culture and exotic architecture can also be found here.
As such, they feature an active LGBTQ community and many folks not fond of the 9-5 grind who contribute to small-scale successes like sustainable restaurants and The Marlborough pub theatre.
Seafront
Brighton stands as an iconic English seaside resort. From its Regency-era buildings and high-end entertainment venues, to its sparkling beach and coast line-spreading pier, Brighton embodies coastal leisure combined with creativity and environmental awareness.
Be sure to stroll along Brighton Pier’s iconic landmark that combines Victorian-era funfair attractions and modern rollercoasters, so as to soak in some sun and fresh sea air. Or explore its labyrinthine alleyways where boutiques, antique jewelry stores and cafes await. And don’t leave without visiting Brighton Pier–an icon that offers both sunbathing and relaxation opportunities!
Brighton’s famed shingle beach is an idyllic destination in summertime for sunbathing and splashing around in the waves, water sports such as stand-up paddleboarding and windsurfing, or simply strolling along its promenade or exploring Victoria Gardens. On winter days it provides the perfect place for strolling along its promenade or taking advantage of nature by visiting them both.
There’s an impressive variety of restaurants, bars and nightclubs along the seafront in Brighton’s Lanes and Preston Street areas. Plus there’s the Theatre Royal which hosts West End musicals as well as touring plays and opera. Near the beach lies Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel which features high ceilings with an elegant ballroom for celebrations; all this restored to 19th century glory!
Brighton Palace Pier is the highlight of Brighton beachfront, boasting classic fairground rides such as carousels and helter-skelters, as well as Volk’s Electric Railway, a narrow-gauge train that runs alongside Brighton promenade. For something a bit calmer and relaxing try Volk’s Electric Railway (or get on Volk’s Electric Railway!).
Brighton is known as one of the nation’s most veggie-friendly cities, so finding plant-based meals should not be an issue in this seaside town. From Food for Friends’ delicious vegetarian fare to Terre a Terre’s legendary vegan Sunday roast – you won’t be short on options here! And for dessert? Visit Boho Gelato for decadent vegan ice cream goodness.
The Lanes
The Lanes, once the heart of old fishing town Brighthelmstone, are an intricate maze of alleyways brimming with vibrant shops selling everything from vintage clothing and antique jewelry to high-end collectibles and charming tea rooms specializing in speciality coffee beverages and ciders.
Brighton’s mazelike streets and narrow passageways are too small for cars, making them perfect for strolling. Here you will find everything from high-end restaurants to bohemian boutiques – and don’t forget Eelus’ Alice in Wonderland graffiti! After shopping all day, stop at one of Brighton’s many chic al fresco eateries where live music will help keep the experience lively!
Brighton quickly rose in popularity among wealthy Londoners seeking an escape from its polluted air and congestion during the 19th century, due to its seaside location, abundance of fashionable stores, and growing reputation as an arts center.
Brighton’s center features flint-stone buildings typical of British Regency architecture. Many include unique features called pebble dashes – where round rocks are used to secure the front of buildings – that define British Regency architecture. Brighton is famous for its vibrant cultural scene which includes theaters, dance companies, and an orchestra symphony orchestra.
Brighton is also an educational hub. Home to the University of Sussex and several community colleges as well as private institutions, Brighton serves as an important center of higher learning in England.
Brighton was recently recognized as England’s Happiest City thanks to its low crime rate, ample work/life balance and lively arts scene. Furthermore, Brighton’s low costs of living, diverse economy and healthy lifestyle make it a top pick among people relocating from London or elsewhere within the UK. Furthermore, this has provided businesses in areas like finance, insurance, tourism and the creative industries an opportunity to expand and thrive within Brighton; plus it makes an excellent place for raising families.
Brighton Pier
Brighton Pier was constructed as part of Victorian engineering feats of ingenuity (and possibly madness), stretching out into the sea from 1899. A major landmark for Brighton, it draws in visitors of all types: families, pensioners, children on day trips to Brighton – families with young kids are especially fond of it; indeed it serves as its major landmark attraction! Like Coney Island with a British aesthetic. Ride wristbands cost money but walking through is free!
This 1,722-foot pleasure pier was constructed during a boom in pleasure pier construction during the 1860s, joining Royal Suspension Chain Pier and later Brighton Dome which opened in 1899 to become a destination for locals and visitors alike. At its peak popularity during the first half of 20th century it attracted over two million people per year!
Today, Brighton Pier remains an entertaining way to enjoy sea air and people-watch. Offering several amusement rides as well as food such as fish and chips or waffles from restaurants along its length. Plus there’s also an arcade game including merry-go-round and mini roller coaster at its end!
Brighton is an eccentric coastal enclave known for its vibrant beaches, kitsch boutique shopping and architectural gems from chalky white pavilions with onion domes to grand theatres and clock towers – it is no secret why Brighton has become a destination.
The Lanes is a maze of narrow alleyways that served as the epicenter of Brighton during its days as a small fishing village. Today it remains filled with coffeeshops, teahouses, merchants selling everything from antiques to yoga supplies, making this area great for exploring on foot. You’ll also find some of Brighton’s top pubs and restaurants here such as The Grand, Old Ship Tavern and Lanes Tavern as well as many independent retailers selling antiques or yoga supplies and brightly painted beach huts that adorn these lanes!
The I360 Rotating Observation Tower
The British Airways i360 is an exciting new attraction on Brighton seafront, boasting its futuristic donut-shaped observation pod which can seat 200 visitors on smooth lift rides from ground level up to 138 metres, giving breathtaking 360 degree views on a clear day. While some have likened its tower to that of a crematorium chimney, others view it as the crown jewel of Brighton’s crown.
Marks Barfield Architects of Marks Barfield i360 in Brighton was designed and constructed with tourism in mind by David Marks and Julia Barfield (also responsible for London Eye). Its height-to-diameter ratio makes it one of the slimmest buildings of its type; visitors will enjoy seeing more while staying longer at Brighton.
Once on board, visitors are secured by two staff members and given permission to enjoy their ride. The flight usually lasts approximately 25 minutes allowing plenty of time for visitors to sip Nyetimber SkyBar wines, beers or gin and tonic while taking in views of Brighton beach, city landmarks and beyond.
Return flight back down is just as enjoyable, offering visitors another perspective of Brighton Pier and surrounding buildings and landscapes. Some visitors opt to sit quietly, reading a book while others take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience to climb onto the roof and explore their pod.
No matter your opinion of Brighton’s iconic i360 ride, its concept and purpose is certainly memorable and distinct. When visiting this seaside resort town, make sure you visit it for yourself to truly experience it from a unique viewpoint and make the most of its magnificent coastline!
Brighton is an ideal day trip destination from London and Gatwick Airport, providing visitors with easy access to many other parts of the UK via train and coach, including National Express’ service between these cities and Brighton. However, to ensure a smooth journey it is wise to check train times in advance and book tickets.
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