It was the construction of the outlandish Royal Pavilion, completed in 1811, by the Prince of Wales that solidified Brighton's status as an easy-to-reach seaside holiday destination from the English capital London. It is perhaps this flamboyant building which set the tone for Brighton's development in the succeeding years into a party town, a bohemian haven, and a center of hedonism. These labels are still evident, with Brighton a place to be for Londoners seeking colorful and lively festivals, as well as an eclectic club scene. Visitors are welcome to join in the fun, of course.
Key attractions
Naturally, attractions in Brighton take advantage of the city's fantastic seaside location. Visit the Brighton Pier, an arcade, an amusement park, and a shopping center all rolled into one. Next on your itinerary is Brighton Beach. In the summer, it is best to swim here during low-tide. Then, of course, there's the Royal Pavilion. This royal recreational facility with Indian-inspired architecture has interesting and worthwhile guided tours. For art lovers, both the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, and the Hove Museum Art and Gallery come highly recommended.
Having fun
Brighton is well-known for its party scene, so any visitor looking for night-time entertainment will have a wide range of options here. Food and drinks are both served in the traditional pubs of North Laine. Nightlife spots with great views can be found in the seafront area along King's Road. Restaurants and bars at Churchill Square provide great options, too. Visitors who come to Brighton in May can attend various events (concerts, markets, and art exhibits) during the Brighton Festival, which comes second only to the Edinburgh Festival in size and scale.
Shopping
Being a holiday destination, Brighton has a number of shopping and retail areas. In fact, many people come here just for the shopping alone. The various shops, stalls, and boutiques located in The Lanes and North Laine are the envy of many English towns. Both areas are home to independent retailers and designers offering original and often quirky jewelry, antiques, clothing, and novelty items. Record shops are a must-visit here as Brighton has a rich selection of them, many of which can be found in the North Laine area.
Nearby
Located just a mere 20 minutes by car from Brighton, Lewes makes for a great daytrip. Lewes is a historic market town with a number of worthwhile tourist attractions, like Lewes Castle and the Glyndebourne Opera House. If you visit on November 5, you are in luck. Lewes celebrates Guy Fawkes Night better than any town in England with both bonfires and night processions. If you want to stay close to the sea but away from the crowds, Worthing is a good daytrip as this seaside town is more peaceful than Brighton.
Our recommendations in Brighton
DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole
Located in Brighton, Hilton Brighton Metropole is near a train station and on the beach. Brighton Theatre Royal and Brighton Dome are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include British Airways i360 and Brighton Royal Pavilion. Check out an event or a game at American Express Community Stadium, and consider making time for Brighton Pier, a top attraction not to be missed.
Royal Albion Hotel
Royal Albion Hotel is located on the beach and in an area with great shopping. Brighton Dome and Brighton Theatre Royal are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Brighton Pier and Brighton Marina. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at American Express Community Stadium or Brighton Racecourse.
The Grand Brighton
Located in Brighton, The Grand Brighton is in the city center and on the beach. British Airways i360 and Brighton Royal Pavilion are notable landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Brighton Pier and Brighton Marina. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at American Express Community Stadium or Brighton Racecourse. Our guests love the hotel's central location.
The Old Ship Hotel
Located in Brighton, The Old Ship Hotel is in the city center and on the beach. Brighton Theatre Royal and Brighton Dome are cultural highlights, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Brighton Pier and Brighton Marina. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at American Express Community Stadium or Brighton Racecourse. Our guests appreciate the hotel's central location.
Harbour Hotel Brighton
Located in Brighton, Brighton Harbour Hotel & Spa is in the city center and on the beach. British Airways i360 and Brighton Royal Pavilion are notable landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Brighton Pier and Brighton Marina. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at American Express Community Stadium or Brighton Racecourse.
Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront, an IHG Hotel
Located in Brighton, Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront is on the Strip and on the beach. British Airways i360 and Brighton Royal Pavilion are notable landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Brighton Beach and Preston Park. Check out an event or a game at American Express Community Stadium, and consider making time for Brighton Pier, a top attraction not to be missed.
Jurys Inn Brighton
Located in Brighton, Jurys Inn Brighton is in a shopping district and near a train station. Brighton Royal Pavilion and British Airways i360 are notable landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Brighton Pier and Brighton Marina. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at American Express Community Stadium or Brighton Racecourse. Our guests love the hotel's central location.