If you’re looking for a unique city break in the United Kingdom, look no further than the charming coastal town of Brighton on the south coast of England. This lively, colourful city offers beautiful beaches and an iconic, quintessentially British pier. But Brighton has so much more to offer beyond the shoreline. We were immediately smitten by the vibrant energy of its cosy city centre, filled with trendy restaurants, quirky shops, and captivating street art. And we couldn’t get enough of the enchanting fairytale palace that took our breath away!
In this blog, we’ll guide you through Brighton’s must-see attractions, along with some handy tips to make your visit unforgettable. Let us inspire you to plan a memorable city break to this fascinating corner of England.
Where is Brighton in England?
Brighton, a vibrant seaside town on the south coast of England, is located in the picturesque southeast, making it an easily accessible destination from London, also in the same region.
The journey from London to Brighton is quick and convenient, with a direct train ride taking just an hour. If you’re traveling from the Netherlands, taking the train to London is the most efficient option, though flying is also an easy choice. If you opt to fly, we recommend landing at London Gatwick Airport. From there, a direct train will whisk you to Brighton in just 30 minutes.
Where to Stay in Brighton
For an unforgettable stay in Brighton, opt for accommodation by the coast, where you can wake up to breathtaking sea views, or stay in the heart of the city centre, close to The Lanes and The North Laine. This way, you’ll be just a short stroll away from the top attractions, quaint restaurants, and bustling bars, placing you right in the vibrant pulse of the city. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or immerse yourself in Brighton’s lively atmosphere, you’ll be perfectly situated to enjoy it all.
The Best Hostels and Hotels in Brighton:
#1 The Southern Belle – A luxurious boutique hotel with an inviting cocktail lounge and bar, The Southern Belle is set in a beautifully preserved 19th-century building. Inside, you’ll find a collection of vibrant, quirky, and modern rooms that embody the spirit of a boutique stay. With its eclectic design and chic ambiance, this hotel offers a stylish retreat for those looking to enjoy a little extra flair during their time in Brighton.
#2 Blanch House – This elegant Regency-style hotel is tucked in the heart of Brighton’s city center, just a minute’s walk from the beach. Brighton Pier is a mere 10-minute stroll away, putting the best of the city right at your doorstep. Guests rave about the exceptional service, the generous breakfast spread, and the stylish decor of the spacious rooms. With its central location, Blanch House is the perfect base for exploring Brighton’s attractions, making it a top choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.
#3 Artist Residence Brighton – Set in a collection of beautiful Regency-style townhouses, Artist Residence is one of Brighton’s most stunning boutique hotels. Located directly across from the iconic, though abandoned, West Pier, the hotel offers 25 uniquely designed rooms, each filled with original artwork and furnished with luxurious beds and en-suite bathrooms. Most rooms boast sweeping sea views, creating a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere for those looking to blend art, history, and coastal beauty into their stay.
#4 The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel & Spa – Nestled in the vibrant Kemptown neighborhood, just a short 5-minute walk from Brighton Pier and east of The Lanes, The Charm is a true gem. This classic luxury hotel is housed in a beautifully restored historic building, where bright rooms offer a relaxing escape with some featuring cozy sitting areas and views of the sea. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, The Charm is the perfect mix of old-world elegance and modern comfort.
#5 Hotel Pelirocco – For a truly unique experience, look no further than Hotel Pelirocco, a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel in a quirky townhouse by the coast. Located on Regency Square, close to The Lanes and Brighton’s most popular sights, this hotel offers an unforgettable stay with its creative, pop culture-inspired rooms. Each room is designed with a playful flair, from glamorous to rock-and-roll, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking something fun, memorable, and full of personality.
Top 10 Things to See in Brighton
#1 The Lanes and North Laine
The vibrant heart of Brighton is a labyrinth of narrow streets, and this area is perfectly known as The Lanes. In our eyes, it’s the most enchanting part of the city, with its atmospheric alleys, cozy cafés, and lively energy. Just a short stroll to the north of The Lanes, you’ll find North Laine, which is every bit as charming.
Both The Lanes and North Laine are brimming with trendy coffee shops, quaint restaurants, inviting bars, quirky vintage stores, and delightful boutiques. Trying to create a definitive guide to the coolest spots here is nearly impossible because Brighton is absolutely packed with them. Simply wandering through the winding streets of The Lanes and North Laine, you’ll discover a wealth of hidden gems around every corner. If you’re drawn to a bohemian vibe and love hunting for vintage treasures, North Laine has a bit more of that laid-back, eclectic charm than The Lanes, making it the perfect place to get lost in.
#2 The Brighton Pier
The pier is an iconic feature of every British seaside town, and Brighton is no exception. The Brighton Marine Palace and Pier has been a landmark here since 1899 and has held listed status since the 1970s. Once a peaceful Victorian promenade where visitors leisurely wandered along the coast, today it’s a lively amusement park, complete with roller coasters, a carousel, and an array of other fun attractions. In fact, it’s considered one of the most visited free attractions in the United Kingdom.
Stretching over half a kilometer, a walk along the Palace Pier remains an enjoyable experience, but don’t expect a quiet, relaxing stroll. With all the vibrant entertainment around you, it’s more of an exhilarating adventure. Take in the sights, sounds, and energy of the pier as you experience this lively, one-of-a-kind attraction—a type of entertainment you won’t find quite like this in the Netherlands.
And did you know Brighton has another pier? The Palace Pier is actually the third to be built in the city. The first one is long gone, and the Palace Pier was constructed to replace it. But if you stroll along the coastline, you’ll still find the haunting ruins of the West Pier, standing as a poignant reminder of the past and the ever-changing face of this beloved seaside destination.
#3 The Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion is one of Brighton’s most iconic landmarks. Nestled in the heart of the city, this fairy-tale palace stands out with its eclectic blend of architectural styles. Its design draws on influences from the Middle East, India, and China, combined with touches of Gothic church architecture. Commissioned by Prince George of Wales, who was acting as regent for his father, King George III, the pavilion was originally a grand manor. In the early 1800s, the prince transformed it into a lavish, exotic retreat in Brighton, where he could escape from royal duties—and also secretly meet his mistress! In 1850, Queen Victoria sold the palace to the city of Brighton, where it has since become a treasured public monument.
The Royal Pavilion continues to attract visitors from all over the world, surrounded by the tranquil Royal Pavilion Gardens, which are free to enjoy. Even if you’re not planning to buy a ticket to tour the palace itself, a walk through the gardens is a must. It’s the perfect way to take in the breathtaking view of the palace, with its striking domes and minarets, making it an unforgettable sight to behold.
#4 Brighton’s Street Art
As you wander through the heart of Brighton, you can’t help but be captivated by the city’s vibrant street art scene. Everywhere you look, colorful murals bring the streets to life, with some works towering high above the buildings. Perhaps the most famous piece is Kissing Policemen by the iconic Banksy. Though the original artwork has been sold, a replica still graces the wall of a pub just a short walk from the police station.
You’ll find other notable works dotted around the city, such as on The Prince Albert pub on Trafalgar Street, and throughout the winding streets of The Lanes and North Laine. What’s especially remarkable is how Brighton has not only embraced street art from world-renowned graffiti artists but has also cultivated a creative community of local talent. Many pubs, cafes, and shops now proudly showcase their own murals, giving the city a truly unique and artistic atmosphere that’s impossible to miss.
#5 The British Airways i360 Observation Tower
Rising to an impressive 162 meters, the Brighton i360 is one of the tallest observation towers in the world. Located next to the historic West Pier, the tower was initially hoped to revive the pier’s former glory. While that vision hasn’t fully come to life, the i360 itself has certainly become one of Brighton’s standout attractions. From its summit, visitors are treated to stunning panoramic views that stretch beyond the city, offering a glimpse of the surrounding countryside and the entire southern coastline of England. Tickets for the Brighton i360 are available for advance purchase online, making it simple to plan ahead for this unforgettable experience.
#6 The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
Nestled within the lush public gardens surrounding the Royal Pavilion, you’ll discover several other charming buildings, each with its own unique appeal. One of the highlights is The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which stands out as one of the city’s most captivating attractions.
Since Brighton acquired the Royal Pavilion in 1850, this elegant building has served as a venue for a variety of art exhibitions. The museum is a true gem, offering a rich and diverse collection that spans centuries of history. Inside, you’ll find everything from magnificent historical artworks and royal furniture to ancient Egyptian treasures, fascinating archaeological discoveries, vintage toys, and much more. It’s a place where history and culture come to life, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Brighton.
#7 Brighton Sea Life
If you’re captivated by marine life and enjoy exploring aquariums, a visit to Brighton Sea Life is an absolute must. Not only does it boast an incredible variety of aquatic creatures, but it also holds the title of being the oldest aquarium in the world!
Since its opening in 1872, this iconic attraction has been mesmerizing visitors for over a century. With over 5,000 fish and more than 100 species on display, there’s no shortage of fascinating creatures to discover. Conveniently located right by the Brighton Palace Pier, the aquarium is the perfect addition to your seaside experience, offering both educational and awe-inspiring moments for all ages.
#8 The Open Market
For a truly authentic Brighton experience, make sure to visit the Open Market. This lively market has been a staple of the city since 1880, offering a delightful peek into Brighton’s history. After a renovation in 2014, the market now boasts a covered indoor hall, home to a diverse range of stalls.
Around the edges of the hall, you’ll find long-established vendors, while the central space is typically brimming with colorful pop-up stalls that change regularly, offering a wide variety of unique products. Whether you’re hunting for something special or simply looking to enjoy a bite to eat and drink, the Open Market has it all. What makes it even better? Every vendor here is local—there are no big-name chains. Instead, you’ll find a dynamic mix of independent shops and small businesses, each contributing to the authentic, one-of-a-kind atmosphere that makes Brighton so special.
#9 The Beaches of Brighton
Brighton is, of course, a seaside destination for a reason: the city is home to some of the most charming urban beaches around. While we might not immediately think of England when it comes to a beach holiday, the south coast is where many Brits flock for their summer days by the sea. And among them, Brighton stands out as one of the most beloved spots.
What started as a humble fishing village, Brighton soon transformed into a stylish resort town in the 18th century. Its rise to fame accelerated when Prince George of Wales, later King George IV, chose Brighton as his coastal retreat, building his extravagant palace here. His frequent visits turned the town into a must-visit destination, helping to solidify its reputation as a fashionable and sought-after getaway.
#10 Seven Sisters Cliffs Day Trip
A short trip from Brighton, you’ll find the stunning Seven Sisters cliffs, one of the most awe-inspiring natural landmarks along England’s southern coast. These towering white chalk cliffs are not only a dramatic sight, but they also capture the essence of the English coastline’s beauty. Unlike the famous White Cliffs of Dover, the Seven Sisters are free from buildings or development, remaining in their pristine, natural state. However, this also means they are vulnerable to the forces of nature, with sections of the cliffs gradually eroding away each year. Despite this, the cliffs retain their striking white color, thanks to the ongoing process of natural erosion.
The Seven Sisters are nestled within the South Downs National Park, just a short drive from Brighton. The highest point of this stunning coastline is Beachy Head, where a charming lighthouse stands proudly in the water, creating the perfect backdrop for a photo. When visiting, it’s important to pay attention to the warning signs about the eroding cliffs, and remember to keep a safe distance from the edge.
