A Weekend Escape to Brighton
Find out why this Sussex gem earns its place on must-visit lists
Brighton is an unmistakably cosmopolitan and fun-loving city, nestled between the South Downs and the sea on Britain’s southern coast. With its miles of characterful beachfront, spectacular architecture, quirky shopping options and first-class food-and-drink scene, it’s no surprise that Brighton regularly features on lists of must-visit city break destinations.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed weekend of exploring or a slower-paced seaside escape, here’s our selection of top-rated things to do, places to stay and culinary adventures to enjoy on your Brighton getaway.
Things to do
Despite the sheer amount of things to do in Brighton, the city is in fact very compact and easy to explore on foot. A great place to start is the beachfront, with its iconic aqua-coloured railings, grand Victorian facades and ornate lamp posts. Wander down to Brighton Pier – one of the oldest and most impressive in the UK – where you’ll find white-knuckle rides, arcades and a fish and chip shop or two, along with the city’s Sea Life Centre.
To the east of the Pier is Brighton Marina, a huge complex with outlet shopping and waterfront restaurants and cafés, whereas to the west lies the liveliest part of the beachfront – the arches along the beachfront are home to the ‘creative quarter’, where you’ll find speciality shops and galleries that are perfect for an afternoon’s browsing. Head inland to wander the iconic Lanes, an intricate knot of little streets and alleys that hark back to Brighton’s days as a Victorian resort. These famous streets are not to be confused with North Laine, the city’s vibrant alternative shopping area with many pubs, cafés and museums that are well worth a visit.
Between the North Laine and the railway station lies the Royal Pavilion, one of the most spectacular architectural flights of fancy Britain has ever witnessed and the heart of Regency Brighton. Located within the Pavilion gardens is the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which is one of the city’s best free sights. For an extra-special view, those with a head for heights will enjoy a trip on board the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, one of Brighton’s newer landmarks which offers the best views by far of the coastline, the city and the South Downs beyond.
Between the North Laine and the railway station lies the Royal Pavilion, one of the most spectacular architectural flights of fancy Britain has ever witnessed and the heart of Regency Brighton. Located within the Pavilion gardens is the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which is one of the city’s best free sights. For an extra-special view, those with a head for heights will enjoy a trip on board the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower, one of Brighton’s newer landmarks which offers the best views by far of the coastline, the city and the South Downs beyond.
We recommend
Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
Places to stay
Whether you’re looking for a luxury stay, a convenient self-catered stay or a room with a view, Brighton has something to suit every traveller and budget.
We recommend
Where to eat
Brighton is world-renowned for its incredible food scene, and one of the tougher parts of your visit will be choosing between all of the incredible cuisine on offer. Here are our recommendations, all of which have at least one AA rosette award for culinary excellence.
