Brighton: The Complete Guide

Visiting Brighton, nestled on the coast of East Sussex in South East England, is a refreshing blend of seaside charm and lively urban culture. The city’s pebbled beach and iconic pier are classic attractions, offering fairground rides, arcade games, and sweeping sea views. A stroll along the promenade, especially at sunset, is a quintessential Brighton experience, with the sound of gulls overhead and a breeze from the English Channel.

Brighton’s central lanes are a magnet for visitors seeking independent shops, quirky boutiques, and bohemian cafes. Known as “The Lanes,” this maze of narrow alleyways is perfect for discovering vintage clothes, artisan jewellery, and gourmet treats. North Laine, just nearby, is equally vibrant, filled with street art, record shops, and lively pubs. It’s an area that celebrates creativity and inclusivity, reflected in Brighton’s dynamic atmosphere.

Beyond shopping and seaside fun, Brighton also has a strong cultural pull. The Brighton Dome hosts music, theatre, and comedy, while the Royal Pavilion adds an exotic architectural flair. The city also serves as a base for exploring the South Downs, with scenic walking and cycling routes just beyond its northern edge. Whether you’re after beach time, nightlife, or artistic flair, Brighton offers a laid-back yet energising escape.

History of Brighton

Brighton in the Early Settlement Period

Brighton’s origins can be traced back to a small Saxon village known as Beorthelm’s tun, which eventually evolved into Brighthelmstone by the Domesday Book of 1086. This early settlement was centred around fishing and farming, with a modest population and scattered dwellings along the coast. The village was prone to erosion and damage from storms, which periodically forced rebuilding efforts. The local economy remained basic for centuries, relying heavily on the sea and surrounding agricultural lands.

Brighton in the Georgian and Regency Eras

Brighton began its transformation in the 18th century, particularly from the 1730s onward when it gained fame for its supposed health benefits. Sea bathing became fashionable, attracting wealthy visitors who believed the saltwater could cure various ailments. The town’s fortunes changed dramatically when Dr. Richard Russell published his treatise promoting seawater as a medicinal remedy, prompting aristocratic interest. The biggest turning point came with the patronage of the Prince Regent (later George IV), who regularly visited from the 1780s. His commissioning of the Royal Pavilion in an extravagant Indo-Saracenic style established Brighton as a royal and fashionable seaside resort.

Brighton in the Victorian and Modern Periods

During the Victorian era, Brighton became one of the most popular seaside destinations in England, aided by the arrival of the railway in 1841. This opened the town to a growing middle class from London and beyond. The pier, the aquarium, and grand hotels emerged as part of Brighton’s appeal to a mass audience. The 20th century saw Brighton evolve into a vibrant, culturally diverse city, known for its liberal atmosphere, arts scene, and as a centre for LGBTQ+ life. Despite changes and modern development, Brighton has preserved its historic architecture and continues to blend tradition with progressive culture.

Visiting Brighton for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Brighton on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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1. Brighton Palace Pier

The Brighton Palace Pier is one of the city’s most iconic attractions, stretching out into the sea with a lively mix of arcades, fairground rides, food stalls, and panoramic views of the coastline. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional fish and chips lunch or trying your luck on the 2p machines, the pier is a classic British seaside experience. Sunset views from the far end of the pier are particularly beautiful.

Entry to the pier is free, and it is open daily from around 10:00 to late evening, with ride wristbands available for purchase. It’s suitable for all ages and is especially popular with families and couples looking for a fun and breezy day by the sea.

2. Brighton Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is a striking former royal residence known for its exotic Indian-style architecture and opulent Chinese-inspired interiors. Originally built as a seaside retreat for King George IV, it now serves as a museum and attraction that reveals the extravagant tastes of Regency Britain. Highlights include the lavish Banqueting Room and the beautiful Music Room.

The Pavilion is open daily, typically from 10:00 to 17:15, with last entry 30 minutes before closing. Tickets cost around £18 for adults, with concessions available. The adjacent Pavilion Gardens offer a peaceful space to relax or picnic.

3. The Lanes, Brighton

The Lanes are a maze of narrow, winding alleyways in the heart of Brighton, filled with independent shops, antique dealers, jewellery boutiques, and quirky cafés. It’s a charming area to explore on foot, where you can stumble upon hidden courtyards and enjoy the relaxed pace of browsing.

The Lanes are free to visit and open all day, though most shops open around 10:00 and close by early evening. It’s an ideal place to find one-of-a-kind gifts or enjoy a quiet moment at a coffee shop tucked away from the busier parts of the city.

4. British Airways i360

Soaring 162 metres above Brighton’s seafront, the British Airways i360 is a futuristic observation tower offering 360-degree views across the city, the South Downs, and the English Channel. The glass viewing pod slowly ascends and descends, giving visitors time to enjoy the changing perspectives.

Flights run approximately every 30 minutes, typically from 10:00 to 18:00, with extended hours in summer. Tickets cost around £17.50 for adults. It’s a must-visit for photographers and anyone wanting a unique overview of the region.

5. Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Located within the Royal Pavilion complex, this museum houses a varied collection ranging from local history and fashion to decorative art and world cultures. The museum’s eclectic exhibitions make it a good indoor option, with something to interest visitors of all ages.

Open Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00, entry is usually £7 for adults. It’s worth stopping by even if you’ve already visited the Pavilion, as the exhibits are distinct and often surprising.

6. Brighton Beach and Seafront

Brighton Beach is the city’s main natural attraction—a long stretch of pebbled coastline ideal for walking, lounging, or enjoying water sports. The promenade is lined with bars, restaurants, art galleries, and seasonal pop-ups, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the year.

There is no charge to enjoy the beach, and it’s popular year-round, especially in summer when locals and tourists alike fill the area with beach towels, music, and laughter. The sunset views are particularly popular, and paddleboarding or kayaking is available in the warmer months.

7. Brighton Marina

Just east of the city centre, Brighton Marina is a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, a cinema, and waterside walks. It’s a great spot to dine overlooking the water, go on a boat trip, or enjoy leisure activities like bowling and adventure golf.

Entry is free, and most businesses open from 09:00 to late evening. Boat trips and fishing charters can be booked in advance. The marina also connects to the undercliff walk, a scenic coastal path popular with walkers and cyclists.

8. Preston Park and Rockery

Preston Park is the largest urban park in Brighton and offers open green spaces, tennis courts, a velodrome, and cafés. It’s a favourite among locals for jogging, picnics, and family outings. Nearby, the Rockery is the largest municipal rock garden in the UK, with water features, exotic plants, and stone paths.

The park and Rockery are free and open daily. It’s especially popular in spring and summer and offers a peaceful break from the busier beach and shopping areas.

9. Volk’s Electric Railway

This historic electric railway, opened in 1883, runs along Brighton’s seafront from the Aquarium Station near the pier to Black Rock Station by the marina. It’s a charming ride for visitors of all ages and provides easy access to several attractions.

The railway operates from spring to autumn, typically from 11:00 to 17:00, with trains running every 15–20 minutes. A single journey costs around £4 for adults. It’s both a piece of living history and a fun way to explore the beachfront.

10. Undercliff Walk Brighton

The Undercliff Walk is a unique pedestrian and cycle path that stretches from Brighton Marina to Saltdean, carved between chalk cliffs and the sea. It offers stunning views and a quiet alternative to the main promenade.

There’s no entry fee and it’s accessible year-round, though best enjoyed in good weather due to exposure to the elements. Along the route, you’ll find cafés and scenic spots for resting. The total distance is around 5 km one way, and it’s suitable for walkers of all abilities.