Brighton is perfect if you’re on the hunt for a seaside break! Described as ‘London by the sea’, Brighton is only 50 minutes outside the hustle bustle of the nation’s capital and a mere 30 minutes from Gatwick airport.
Brighton has some famous residents too, 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 Lookers Mercedes-Benz, who offer a variety of Mercedes finance plans, we run through exactly what you need to see and do in the south-east sensation.
Where to go
You might want to spend the entire time relaxing, but there’s also so much to see:
Brighton’s piers
Brighton is the only town in Britain to host a Grade I-listed pier — so it’s worth a visit! 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
At the Brighton Marina, you’ll see 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
The Theatre Royal in Brighton is one of the oldest theatres in the country. 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
If you’re a history fan, this attraction should not be missed. 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.
Events to get involved with
There’s always something going on in Brighton for people to get involved with. Here is a selection of events to look out for:
Brighton Pride
The event of Brighton Pride is 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
Enjoy one of Brighton’s Bike Tours to explore the sites that Brighton has to offer. 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 interesting route 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.
Looking for a drink?
Brighton really does have 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.
In other areas of the city, 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!
And, when night falls, 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.
Looking for food?
You won’t be short of food venues in Brighton! 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.
If you’re after something more luxurious, Michael Bremner’s 64 Degrees Brighton is great. 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.
And, that’s all to 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.