Things to Do in Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton, affectionately known as 'London-by-the-Sea,' is a vibrant coastal city on England's south coast that perfectly blends Victorian elegance with bohemian charm. Famous for its pebble beach, iconic pier, and the extravagant Royal Pavilion, Brighton has been a beloved seaside resort since the 18th century when it became a fashionable retreat for the Prince Regent (later King George IV). The city pulses with creative energy, boasting a thriving arts scene, eclectic shopping in the famous Lanes, and a reputation as one of the UK's most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations. Today's Brighton is a cosmopolitan hub that attracts visitors year-round with its unique mix of seaside tradition and contemporary culture. The city offers everything from traditional fish and chips on the beach to cutting-edge galleries and vintage boutiques. With its proximity to London (just an hour by train), Brighton serves as both a perfect day trip destination and a charming base for exploring the South Downs and Sussex countryside.

Top Things to Do in Brighton

Royal Pavilion Tour

Explore the spectacular Royal Pavilion, King George IV's extraordinary seaside palace that resembles an Indian mogul's palace from the outside and features lavish Chinese-inspired interiors. The audio tour reveals fascinating stories of royal excess and architectural innovation. The adjacent museum and gardens provide additional context to Brighton's royal heritage.

Booking Tip: Adult tickets cost around £17-19, with discounts for students and seniors. Book online for slight savings and to skip queues during peak summer months. The pavilion is open year-round except Christmas Day, with extended hours in summer.

Brighton Pier Experience

Visit the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, a Victorian-era pleasure pier packed with traditional seaside amusements, arcade games, and fairground rides. The pier offers stunning sea views, fish and chips, candy floss, and nostalgic entertainment that captures the essence of British seaside culture. Don't miss the ghost train and the classic helter-skelter slide.

Booking Tip: Entry to the pier is free, but individual rides and games cost £2-5 each. Consider buying a wristband for unlimited rides (around £25-35) if you plan to enjoy multiple attractions. Visit during weekdays for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

Food Tour in The Lanes

Discover Brighton's culinary scene through the historic Lanes, a maze of narrow medieval streets now filled with independent restaurants, cafes, and food vendors. Sample everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine, craft beer, and artisanal treats. The area combines food tasting with shopping and cultural exploration in Brighton's most atmospheric quarter.

Booking Tip: Guided food tours typically cost £40-60 per person and last 3-4 hours, including 6-8 tastings. Book in advance, especially for weekend tours. Many tours operate year-round but check weather policies for outdoor portions.

British Airways i360 Observation Tower

Soar 450 feet above Brighton Beach in the world's tallest moving observation tower, offering 360-degree views of the city, South Downs, and English Channel. The 20-minute slow rotation provides unparalleled photo opportunities and a unique perspective on Brighton's layout. On clear days, you can see up to 26 miles in every direction.

Booking Tip: Standard tickets cost around £17-20 for adults, with sunset and champagne flights available for £25-35. Book online for discounts and guaranteed time slots. Weather can affect operations, so check conditions and cancellation policies before visiting.

Street Art and Culture Walking Tour

Explore Brighton's vibrant street art scene and alternative culture through guided walks that showcase colorful murals, hidden galleries, and the stories behind the city's creative community. Tours often include visits to independent shops, artist studios, and cultural venues that represent Brighton's bohemian spirit. Learn about the city's music heritage and contemporary arts scene.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost £15-25 per person and last 2-3 hours. Many operate on a pay-what-you-think-it's-worth basis. Book through local tour companies or check with the tourist information center for recommended guides with insider knowledge.

Getting There

Brighton is easily accessible from London and other UK cities, with frequent train services being the most popular option. Direct trains from London Victoria and London Bridge take approximately 1 hour, while services from London St Pancras via Gatwick Airport take about 1 hour 15 minutes. National Express coaches provide a budget-friendly alternative, taking around 2-2.5 hours from London Victoria Coach Station. If driving, Brighton is about 50 miles south of London via the M23 and A23, though parking in the city center can be expensive and limited. Gatwick Airport is just 30 minutes away by train, making Brighton accessible for international visitors.

Getting Around

Brighton is a compact city that's easily walkable, with most major attractions within a 20-minute walk of each other. The city center is largely pedestrianized, making walking pleasant and safe. Brighton & Hove buses provide comprehensive coverage of the wider area, with day tickets costing around £5-6 for unlimited travel. The seafront is perfect for cycling, with bike rental shops offering hourly and daily rates. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, though traffic can be slow during peak times. Many visitors find that staying centrally eliminates the need for much transportation, as the beach, Lanes, and main attractions are all within easy walking distance.

Where to Stay

City Center/The Lanes

Seafront/Marina

North Laine

Hove

Kemptown

Preston Park

Food & Dining

Brighton's food scene is remarkably diverse for a seaside town, reflecting its cosmopolitan character and creative community. The city excels in both traditional British seaside fare and innovative international cuisine. For classic fish and chips, head to the seafront vendors or established spots like Bardsley's. The Lanes and North Laine areas buzz with independent cafes, vegetarian restaurants, and international eateries, while the Marina offers upscale dining with sea views. Brighton has a particularly strong vegetarian and vegan scene, with numerous plant-based restaurants throughout the city. Don't miss the local pubs serving Sussex ales, and be sure to try some traditional Brighton rock candy. The city's proximity to the South Downs ensures excellent local produce, which many restaurants showcase in their seasonal menus.

When to Visit

Brighton is a year-round destination, but late spring through early autumn (May-September) offers the best weather for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Summer months (June-August) bring the warmest temperatures, longest days, and liveliest atmosphere, but also the largest crowds and highest prices. May and September are ideal for those seeking pleasant weather with fewer tourists. Winter visits have their own charm, with dramatic seascape views, cozy pubs, and the magical Brighton Fringe Festival in May. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the famous Brighton Festival in May and Pride in August, which can influence both atmosphere and accommodation availability.

Insider Tips

Visit the ruins of the old West Pier at low tide for haunting photography opportunities and a piece of Brighton's faded grandeur

Explore the hidden network of tunnels and caves beneath the city through specialized underground tours that reveal Brighton's smuggling history

Shop at the Saturday farmers market in Hove for local Sussex produce and artisanal goods away from the tourist crowds in central Brighton

Things to Do in Brighton