Lively, youthful, and home to a thriving LGBTQ community, Brighton’s seaside attractions, alternative spirit, and fierce pride make it one of England’s most distinctive beach destinations. In addition to the nostalgic delights of Brighton Pier and the rarefied scenery of the Royal Pavilion—both top things to do in Brighton—younger visitors flock to the Brighton Lanes, where boutiques and secondhand shops jostle with bijou bars and hipster-filled restaurants. While you can take in the sea air on its pebbly beach, walks to the chalky heights of the Seven Sisters are a worthy challenge for experienced ramblers.
After cold and rainy winters, Brighton’s weather redeems itself the rest of the year with some of England’s mildest and sunniest climes, drawing big seaside crowds as a result. Spring sees locals and visitors come out to play at the multi-arts Brighton Festival, while summer heralds the highest temperatures (and prices), as well as animated Pride celebrations and beach dance parties. Despite Brighton’s somewhat inclement winters, the twinkly Lanes, Christmas Market, and outdoor Royal Pavilion Ice Rink keep the city’s carnival vibe alive.
Driving around Brighton is notoriously difficult due to its narrow roads and pricey parking. Fortunately, the city’s frequent buses are handy for exploring the major sights and cliff-fringed coast to the east. Walking is also popular: Brighton’s center and village-like neighborhoods such as Kemptown, Seven Dials, and the North Laine all lie within a roughly 30-minute stroll from the seafront. If walking or buses aren’t your thing, cabs, ride-hailing apps, and bike rentals are alternatives.
For a breather from central Brighton, catch the #12 bus for a 15-minute ride to Roedean Café, perched on a clifftop outside the city. This old-school café is famous for its hearty English breakfasts and pies, all served with a side of magnificent sea views. Work up an appetite by playing a round of mini-golf on the café’s very own 16-hole course.
