Brighton, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

This new travel guide on Ellie & Co will take you on a fun adventure to Brighton, England. The author, a keen traveler and writer, will share their best tips for a great weekend in this lively spot. Brighton has changed a lot over the years. It's gone from a funky, grunge place to a top location for food, art, and culture. We'll show you the best sights, places to shop, and experiences. You'll also learn about the yummy food, interesting museums, and the fun night scene that make Brighton special.

So, what magical secrets does this seaside city hold? Find out the special spots and hidden gems that make Brighton a true jewel. The spectacular Royal Pavilion and the top-notch aquarium are just a couple of places you'll love. Brighton's unique charm is everywhere, from cool shops to colorful street art and a lively LGBTQ+ scene. Whether you want to try great food or chill at the beach, this guide will help you have an amazing time in Brighton.

Key Takeaways

• Brighton has transformed from a hippy, grunge-filled town to a thriving hub of food, arts, and culture.
• The city offers a diverse range of iconic attractions, bohemian shopping districts, unique experiences, beach activities, culinary delights, museums, and lively nightlife.
• Explore the hidden gems and must-see spots that make Brighton a true gem of the English coast.
• Discover the city's bohemian charm, vibrant street art, and thriving LGBTQ+ scene.
• Indulge in a culinary adventure or relax on the beautiful Brighton Beach.

Iconic Brighton Attractions

Brighton sits beside the sparkling English Channel. It's filled with famous places that draw people from everywhere. The incredible Royal Pavilion and magical Sea Life stand out. The city's vibrant charm tells stories of its past, beauty, and creativity.

Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion was a holiday house for King George IV. Its design mixes English Regency with Indian and Chinese styles. This creates a unique and beautiful sight. Inside, see rooms that were once used by Queen Victoria. The palace has served as a hospital during World War I.

Some must-sees include Queen Victoria's room with lovely 19th-century wallpaper. There's also the grand saloon and a large chandelier in the dining area.

Sea Life Brighton

Sea Life Brighton is the Earth's oldest aquarium, dating back to 1872. It's filled with over 5,000 sea creatures from various parts of the globe. Here, you can come face-to-face with clownfish, seahorses, and even rays.

British Airways i360

The British Airways i360 is unique in Brighton. It's a viewing tower that moves up to 450 feet high. From its top, see the whole city, the South Downs, and the coast.

Upside Down House

The Upside Down House is full of optical illusions. It lets you experience walking on the ceiling and more. Perfect for fun photos to share with friends.

Bohemian Shopping in Brighton

Away from the usual Brighton sights, head to North Laine for a unique shopping experience. Here you'll find a diverse range of items, from vintage clothes to ethical, exotic, and funky purchases. North Laine also boasts exciting stores like Snoopers Attic and Jump The Gun.

These places are perfect for anyone looking for something special. You can also explore Beyond Retro, a warehouse filled with more than 10,000 fashion items under its sky lights.

North Laine Neighborhood

The North Laine neighbourhood is a key spot for shopping in Brighton. It's full of unique shops, old stores, and places where artisans create their work. Walking around these streets, you'll find gifts, sustainable clothing, and interesting home decorations.

The Lanes

South of North Laine, you’ll discover The Lanes. This area is famous for its narrow streets and historic buildings. Now, those same streets are home to vintage stores, record shops, and places where artists work. The Lanes offer a truly special shopping experience.

Open Market

Then, there's the lively Open Market. This covered market is filled with local stalls selling food, goods, and more. It's a great place to buy fresh food, books, and unique items. Plus, visiting the Open Market lets you be a part of Brighton's thriving artisan scene.

Guided Tours and Unique Experiences

Visitors can explore Brighton's history and unique charm with guided tours from "Only in Brighton!". These fun Brighton guided tours last 90 minutes. They share facts and funny stories while showing you both famous and hidden places. If you're into the city's LGBTQ+ background, join the "Piers and Queers" tour. It looks at the Regency era, early political movements, and Edwardian gender performance.

Have fun on Brighton's street art tours by walking at your own pace. You'll see cool stuff like the "Kissing Policemen" Banksy piece. Plus, you'll find amazing art on walls, buildings, and more around the city.

Families will love a trip on Volk's Electric Railway, the world's oldest. The little electric cars offer a slow but scenic ride by the sea. It's a lovely way to see Brighton's sights together.

Beach Life and Seaside Fun

Brighton's five-mile-long pebble

has welcomed visitors for hundreds of years. People can enjoy the sun or visit the famous

. At the pier, they can have fun in dodgem cars, eat ice cream, and play games. The old West Pier is also a must-see landmark. Though it's in ruins, it's where you can see beautiful starling bird displays.

Beach Box Spa

Hidden away on

is the

. It's a real Finnish sauna experience. You can relax in the hot sauna and then cool off in the English Channel.

Rory McCormack's Flint Grotto

Walking east from the

, you might find a special place. It's

, an art garden filled with large stone sculptures. These sculptures are of historic and religious figures.

Brighton's Culinary Delights

Brighton is known for its food scene, offering everything from veggie spots to beachside cafes. The Salt Room shines as a top dining spot. It serves modern British seafood grilled over coal. People love it for its sweet treats too, like homemade fudge and doughnuts.

Brighton Food Tours

Want to try many local flavors at once? Join a Brighton Food Tour. It’s a fun way to visit favorite food spots, meet the makers, and indulge in delicious samples.

Afternoon Tea on a Routemaster Bus

For a memorable meal, hop on a Regency Routemaster bus for afternoon tea. It includes a glass of bubbly and the chance to see Brighton's sights.

Museums and Cultural Attractions

Brighton is filled with unique museums for everyone's taste. The Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is in what used to be the Prince Regent's tennis court. It holds a mix of treasures, from art to ancient Egyptian finds. You'll also find the fun of seaside items next to vintage costumes you can try on.

For a trip down memory lane, the Brighton Toy and Model Museum is perfect. It has over 10,000 toys and models, like Meccano and model railways, that everyone can enjoy.

If you want to learn about local history on crime and justice, visit the Old Police Cells Museum. It opens from April to October. The museum shows 200 years of crime and how the old police cells worked under Brighton's town hall.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Brighton's nightlife is lively, offering historic music spots, unique bars, and coastal clubs. Places like Shuffle Bar let you play your music through their retro jukebox, making karaoke nights common.

Bohemia, a gothic bar with three levels and a rooftop terrace, brings theatrics to their drinks. Another top spot is Komedia, which showcases 700 shows yearly, from comedy to live music.

For a night of dancing, Club Revenge is the place to be. It's a renowned LGBTQ+ nightclub with international performers and drag shows.

Brighton, England: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

This guide covers the top attractions in Brighton, England. It includes lively shopping areas, special experiences, beach fun, tasty food, museums, and fun night spots. Brighton is known for places like the Royal Pavilion and Sea Life. It also has cool places like North Laine, and The Salt Room with great seafood.

There is so much to explore in Brighton. It's perfect for those into culture, the outdoors, or just looking to have a good time. This seaside city is sure to leave a lasting memory on visitors.

Brighton shines on England's tourism map with its varied attractions, beautiful spots, and hidden treasures. It's a must for anyone wanting a memorable trip. The city's got lots to see and do, making it perfect for an unforgettable holiday.

Unique Accommodations in Brighton

Brighton offers many unique boutique hotels. Each one reflects the city's diverse and lively spirit. For a fun stay, check out the Hotel Pelirocco. It features 19 rooms, each celebrating a different music genre or famous artist.

Hotel Pelirocco

Hotel Pelirocco lets you dive into Brighton's energetic vibe. Stay in rooms like Lord Vader's Quarters or a Dolly Parton-designed space. Each room showcases the city’s creativity and unique style.

Snooze Guesthouse

The Snooze Guesthouse is perfect for those who love retro. It's in Kemptown and is filled with 70s style. Despite the retro look, it has all the modern conveniences you need.

Drakes Hotel

Looking for romance? Try the Drakes Hotel. It’s right by the sea and offers stunning views. Relax in a bubble bath while enjoying the view of the English Channel. It’s a perfect choice for a memorable Brighton visit.

Exploring Brighton's Neighborhoods

Exploring Brighton's neighborhoods is a big part of the city's charm. Each area, like the lively Seven Dials, the quaint Brunswick Town, and the historic Kemptown Village, has its own special vibe and surprises. You never know what you'll find around the next corner.

Seven Dials

The Seven Dials area is close to the train station and famous for its weekend cafes. It's also a conservation area. Walk the streets full of unique shops, friendly pubs, and local spots. You'll love the energy here.

Brunswick Town

Brunswick Town is just by the sea in Hove. It stretches from the well-known Paris House pub to beautiful Brunswick Square. You'll enjoy the historic buildings and community feel as you explore this area.

Kemptown Village

In the east of Brighton is Kemptown Village. It's a place to find charming French eateries, cozy pubs, and more. The area's old streets and welcoming atmosphere are worth a visit.

Art and Culture Scene

Brighton is well-known for being an artists' hub, making it a great place for art lovers. Fabrica is one must-see gallery, set in an old chapel. It features three new art shows every year. Additionally, the Phoenix Gallery is known for its big art events. It offers 12 exhibitions that you can see for free each year. They even have a stylish coffee bar for visitors to enjoy.

Phoenix Gallery

At the Phoenix Gallery, people come to see a wide range of art. They have 12 different shows every year that you can see without paying.

Artists' Open Houses

In May and again in November, Brighton's artists open their studios for all to see. This unique event, called Artists' Open Houses, lets you look at and buy their creations.

Unique Galleries

The Dog and Bone Gallery is special because it's in old London phone boxes. You'll find it in the Seven Dials area. And, Anna's Museum is like a tiny museum in a shop window. It's filled with items from nature.

Beachfront Activities

Besides sunbathing, the pebble Brighton beach offers many fun things. The seafront sauna gives a real Finnish experience. You can plunge into the English Channel. Art shops and galleries in the beachfront arches invite you to explore. Enjoying fresh seafood is a must. And don't miss the boat trips to places like the Rampion Wind Farm.

Seafront Sauna

The seafront sauna lets you experience Finnish culture. The English Channel is right there for a cold dip.

Art Shops and Galleries

Brighton's seafront arches host interesting art shops and galleries. You can find and buy unique pieces.

Seafood Restaurants

Don't forget Brighton's top seafood. Head to places like the Copper Clam for delicious coastal dishes.

Boat Trips

Take a boat trip to see places like the Rampion Wind Farm up close. It offers a unique view of Brighton's coast.

Conclusion

This guide showed you why Brighton, England is a top spot to visit. You can explore the beautiful Royal Pavilion and Sea Life aquarium. Or enjoy shopping in its unique areas, tours, beach fun, and great food. Brighton truly has something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a quick break or a long holiday, Brighton is perfect. It has a mix of old and new, with a lovely seaside vibe. You'll find the top things to do and Brighton attractions here. Plus, don’t miss out on checking the city's variety of activities and sightseeing.

So, why not start planning your Brighton trip now? Uncover the secret spots and must-visit destinations. Whether it's just for a day or more, Brighton will impress you. It promises fun and memorable moments by the sea.