If you are looking for a seaside break, then look no further than Brighton. Described as ‘London by the sea’, Brighton is only 50 minutes outside the hustle bustle of the nation’s capital and it’s a mere 30 minutes from London-Gatwick-Airport to London.
Home to famous residents, including former boxer Chris Eubank and music guru Fatboy Slim, the seaside resort has so much to offer anyone looking for an amazing UK holiday. Here, with smart car specialists, Lookers Mercedes-Benz, we run through exactly what you need to see and do in the south-east sensation.
Attractions to visit
Brighton offers a unique ambience of being relaxed and easy-going, but there is still so much to see:
Brighton’s piers
The seaside resort stands along as the only town in Britain to boast a Grade I-listed pier. Opened in 1866, the West pier was originally built as a promenade with an open deck and a splutter of small buildings before a central bandstand was built in 1875 and a theatre added a decade later. Unfortunately, the West pier now stands derelict, with many renovation proposals being discusses. However, the Grade II-listed Brighton Pier, built in 1899, today stands as a curious hybrid of modern installation in a Victorian shell. On offer are a pleasure park of funfair rides, bars and restaurants, making the location perfect for all ages.
The Brighton Marina
Here, you’ll find the nation’s largest yacht harbor, with 126 acres offering berthing for up to 1300 vessels. There’s opportunities a plenty, including sailing lessons, seas fishing and diving, but if land is more your cup of tea, the marina village hosts an eight-screen cinema, large bowling complex, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Theatre Royal
This is one of the oldest and most distinguished theatres that the country has to offer. It’s located in the city’s cultural quarter and the Grader II-listed building often homes some of the best theatre productions available and has done since 1807. Be sure to check what’s on during your visit and come to be entertained.
Booth Museum of Natural History
For all historians among us, this attraction is a must. With more than half a million specimens and natural history literature and data stemming over 300 years, this educational exhibit offers research facilities and children’s activities.
Activities to take part in
Brighton has awash with great activities throughout the year. Here is a selection of events to look out for:
Brighton Pride
Billed as the UK’s biggest Pride festival, the August event provides an atmosphere like no other. Take to the streets and soak up the carnival atmosphere with the various parades and village parties – not to mention the pride dog show! Lonely Planet describes to event as one of the best Pride events in the world, so it certainly isn’t to be missed if you want to celebrate the LGBTQ community.
Brighton Bike Tours
A great way to see all the sites Brighton boasts is to go on a bike tour of the area. The fun and informative journey is led by a tour guide who will explain your every move. The groups are kept small and the route isn’t too challenging, making this activity a great way to learn about Brighton on a sunny day.
Undercliff walk
This is one of the most unusual and inspiring walks that leads you approximately 4.5km along the bottom of the chalk cliffs. With the route providing an opportunity for walkers and cyclists alike to take in the scenic views while enjoying the sea air, it also contains many fossils of mammoths, woolly rhinos and hippos. It’s recommended that you give yourself approximately three hours to complete the route.
Where to drink
Whether you think of yourself as a party animal, or just like to relax over a quiet drink, Brighton has something for everyone. Many of the pubs you’ll find are serviced by local breweries, and if you’re a fan of real ales, the Quadrant at the top of North Street could be the place for you.
Elsewhere, The Lion and Lobster in the town centre offers a spot with more than 500 years of history and this atmospheric watering hole could be the perfect spot to sink some delicious pints. The North Laine Pub And Brewery is another must-visit haunt. Some of the freshest pints on the seaside shores can be found here with the venue brewing, yes brewing, its own beer!
As the sun goes down, the seafront is where it’s happening. With a host of trendy dance clubs you’ll be sure to get your groove on into the early hours of the morning. At The Lanes, you’ll find a wonderfully weird club called The Mesmerist. With its 1920s-style setting, you are likely to be welcomed by circus performers, burlesque dancers, party DJs and swing musicians.
Where to eat
Brighton is home to an array of restaurants. If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, Veeno Brighton is the top eatery, according to TripAdvisor, gaining an impressive five stars from almost 100 reviews. Based in West Street, the establishment is an Italian wine café that offers beautiful sharing platters and wine tasting experiences.
Michael Bremner’s 64 Degrees Brighton is a great alternative for those looking for a little more luxury. Since opening its doors in 2014, the Meeting House Lane eatery has been offering guests the chance to interact with their chefs as they prepare, plate and present their exquisite dishes.
So, there you have it. A quick guide that provides you with a host of fun-filled activities and establishments to visit when you venture to London by the Sea.
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