Brighton: East Sussex’s Seaside Resort
With it’s quirky shopping areas, large and vibrant cultural, music and art scene along with it’s pebbled beach, Brighton is a great place to visit if you’re after a day by the sea.
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What to do in Brighton
Admire the Royal Pavilion
This Asian-style palace was built for Prince George IV. Whether you’re going inside to see the exquisite interior or hanging out on the lawn, the Royal Pavilion is well worth a stop when visiting Brighton.
Talk a stroll along Brighton Palace Pier
Home to fairground rides, bars, restaurants and deckchairs Brighton Palace Pier is the perfect place to enjoy the sea view.
The Pier is free to walk around, with the opportunity to spend your pennies on the slot machines or a ride in the amusement park.
Go up the Brighton i360
For the best views of Bright take a ride inside the Brighton i360. This glass pod takes you 138m high in the sky, giving you views over Brighton and the South Downs National Park. On the clearest days you may even get the chance to see the Isle of Wight.
Admire the street art
You will find street art dotted all over Brighton. Perhaps the most famous bit of Brighton street art is ‘Kissing Coppers‘. An original piece by Banksy painted onto the side of the Prince Albert Pub in 2004. Other places worth checking out:
- Trafalgar Lane
- Gloucester Road
- Kensington Street
- North Road
Visit Hove’s Beach Huts
Located a 30 minute walk from Brighton Pier is the picturesque beach huts of Hove.
Top tip: keep an eye out for Brighton’s West Pier, only the metal framework of this ruined pier remains.
How to get to Brighton
From London
Trains depart regularly from London Victoria Station. It takes about an hour to get to Brighton, making it the perfect day trip from London.
I recommend using Trainline for booking train tickets.
Where to eat in Brighton
- Shelter Hall: This seaside food court serves a range of food from pizza to bao buns
- The Plotting Bar: Cocktail bar
- Little Jack Fullers: One of the best places for fish and chips, they even have vegan friendly options
Where to stay in Brigthon
- Couples or Families: Central Seaside Cottage located right near the beach
- Solo travellers: Selina Brighton located on the waterfront
Brighton FAQs
When is the best time of year to visit Brighton?
Summer:
Summer is the most popular time to visit Brighton, especially for beach lovers. The weather is generally warm, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (18-24°C). However, this is peak tourist season, the city comes alive with outdoor events, festivals, and a lively atmosphere.
The Royal Pavilion Gardens and other parks will be in full bloom, offering pleasant settings for picnics and relaxation.
Spring and Autumn:
Spring and autumn can be excellent times to visit Brighton for those who prefer milder weather and fewer crowds. During these shoulder seasons, temperatures range from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (12-17°C).
You will also find the city is less crowded, and accommodations are often more affordable compared to the summer months.
Winter:
Winter is the quietest time to visit Brighton. The weather is chilly, with temperatures averaging in the 40s Fahrenheit (4-9°C). While it’s not the best time for beach activities, it can be a great time for exploring indoor attractions and enjoying cozy evenings in pubs and restaurants.
Don’t let the weather put you off as Brighton’s vibrant arts and music scenes continue throughout the winter, and you can visit museums, galleries, and theaters without the crowds.
In summary, the best time to visit Brighton depends on your preferences. Summer is ideal for beachgoers and those who want to experience the city at its liveliest. Spring and early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Winter is suitable for those who enjoy a quieter atmosphere and indoor attractions. Brighton has something to offer year-round, so you can choose the season that aligns with your interests and expectations.
How long to spend in Brighton?
If you’re short on time or just want to get a taste of Brighton, a day trip is possible from nearby cities like London. In a single day, you can visit some of the city’s main attractions, such as the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and the beach. You’ll have time for a meal and a stroll along the seafront.
A weekend getaway allows you to explore Brighton more thoroughly. You can visit the iconic attractions mentioned above, as well as delve into the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Consider attending a show at the Brighton Dome or exploring the North Laine for shopping and dining.
Are there any cultural festivals in Brighton?
Brighton hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular include:
- The Brighton Festival is one of the UK’s leading arts festivals, typically held in May. It celebrates a wide range of art forms, including music, theater, dance, literature, and visual arts. Renowned artists and performers from around the world come to Brighton to participate in this festival.
- Pride Brighton, also known as Brighton & Hove Pride, is one of the largest and most colorful LGBTQ+ festivals in the UK. It typically takes place in August and is a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ+ rights. The festival features a lively parade that winds its way through the streets of Brighton, showcasing vibrant costumes, floats, and enthusiastic participants. After the parade, Pride Village Party takes place in Preston Park, with live music performances, dance stages, and a festive atmosphere.
- Burning the Clocks is a unique winter solstice celebration that takes place in December on the shortest day of the year. This event combines art, community, and the symbolic burning of lanterns to mark the changing of the seasons. At the beach, a large bonfire is lit, and participants throw their lanterns into the fire, symbolising the release of the old year and the welcoming of the new.
Where next?
Looks like I’m gonna have to visit Brighton! 😊 wonderful post.
Thanks Megan, glad you enjoyed it.