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Things to do in Brighton
Brighton is blessed with a proliferation of ornate Regency architecture, and buildings like the Royal Pavilion are must-see tourist attractions, but in truth visitors generally come for the shopping, nightlife, and beaches more than they do for sightseeing. The Brighton Palace Pier is packed with holiday attractions like a funfair, fast food stalls, and a game arcade, and the beachfront is central to touristic stays in Brighton.
Mention shopping in Brighton and the first thing that springs to mind is The Lanes. And for good reason; the Lanes have been operational in Brighton since the 17th century and today host an assortment of boutiques, antique shops, jewellers, and book stores, as well as a few cafes and pubs. Here visitors can find anything from kites, tribal textiles, and hand-made crafts, to vintage shoes or funky fashion accessories.
If the weather is bad, visitors can head for one of the delightful retro pubs and tea rooms that are strewn around Brighton. Those wanting a slight change of scene should head to neighbouring Kemp Town, a charming village with the same Regency appeal of Brighton and plenty of lovely shopping opportunities.
The nightlife in Brighton and Hove is exceptional. This exciting seaside escape, only an hour from London, is a vibrant social hub year-round. With plenty of great restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs, the party just keeps on rolling; many of Brighton's chief attractions only come to life after dark.
Brighton Lanes
The Lanes is a lively neighborhood that hosts a variety of upmarket restaurants and quirky shops, with everything from antiques and jewellery to fortune-telling on offer. Wander la…
Brighton Lanes
The Lanes is a lively neighborhood that hosts a variety of upmarket restaurants and quirky shops, with everything from antiques and jewellery to fortune-telling on offer. Wander lazily through the winding streets and relax at one of the numerous cafes while enjoying a cappuccino and a live jazz performance. The Old Police Cells Museum, in the Town Hall's basement, offers free tours of a 200-year-old underground jail, and by night The Lanes takes on a more ghoulish character, with the famous Ghost Walk being offered for the brave and drinks at a haunted pub for survivors!
Website www.brighton.co.uk
Brighton Palace Pier
As visitors step foot onto Brighton's Palace Pier, they are overwhelmed by the sound of repetitive arcade music and the inviting scent of popcorn or fried fish. A row of stalls sel…
Brighton Palace Pier
As visitors step foot onto Brighton's Palace Pier, they are overwhelmed by the sound of repetitive arcade music and the inviting scent of popcorn or fried fish. A row of stalls selling fast-food, toys, and souvenirs leads visitors towards the arcade, which is filled with an assortment of gaming machines and a couple more eateries. This opens out onto the funfair section at the end of the pier, where a number of rides attracts quite the crowd, including a ghost train, bumper cars, and a lovely carousel. A great place for both young and old to spend the day, Brighton Pier is also a wonderful spot to set up one of the iconic striped deck chairs and just take in the view and soak up the atmosphere.
Website www.brightonpier.co.uk
Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion was built in stages between 1787 and 1823 as a pleasure palace for British royalty and remains one of Brighton and Hove's chief tourist attractions. The interior…
Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion was built in stages between 1787 and 1823 as a pleasure palace for British royalty and remains one of Brighton and Hove's chief tourist attractions. The interior of the Royal Pavilion is extraordinary in its combination of exotic Asian and quintessentially Brittish design. Classic furnishings belonging to Queen Elizabeth II stand beside fierce gilded dragons and imitation bamboo staircases, while the Music Room and the Great Kitchen are also truly impressive sights. The gardens are reminiscent of revolutionary 1730s landscaping, with curving paths between natural groups of trees and beautiful views afforded at every turn. Visitors should allow at least two hours to explore the palace and its noteworthy collections.
Website brightonmuseums.org.uk/royalpavilion