Visit Brighton
The quintessential seaside town: brilliant things to do in Brighton
Brighton has a character all its own. Wander from the extravagant Royal Pavilion through the narrow streets of The Lanes, where independent shops sit alongside cafés, galleries and places to eat. Street art, live music and a lively nightlife give the city its creative energy, while the seafront is never far away. Open, inclusive and full of contrasts, Brighton is as rewarding to explore on a grey afternoon as it is on a sunny day by the sea.
Famous Brighton must-sees
For a dose of traditional seaside fun, take a stroll along Brighton Palace Pier. Enjoy the sea views, try your luck in the arcade or brave the fairground rides before stopping for fish and chips. A short walk away, the Royal Pavilion reveals a more extravagant side of Brighton. Built as a seaside pleasure palace for George IV, its striking exterior and lavish rooms are unlike anywhere else in the city.
For a different view of the coast, step aboard Brighton i360 and rise above the seafront to see the city and the South Downs. Families can also explore SEA LIFE Brighton, opposite the pier. The world’s oldest continually operating aquarium is home to sharks, turtles and thousands of other marine creatures.
Eccentric and diverse
Lose yourself in the winding streets of The Lanes, where independent boutiques, jewellers and cafés fill the old alleyways. For vintage clothes, unusual gifts and a livelier street scene, wander up to the nearby North Laine. Art is easy to find across Brighton, from street murals to exhibitions at the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery.
The city’s events calendar is just as varied. Each May, the Brighton Festival fills venues and public spaces with theatre, music, dance and art. In early August, Brighton & Hove Pride brings its parade, performances and celebrations to the streets, reflecting the openness and energy that make Brighton such a memorable place to visit.
Where to eat in Brighton
Brighton and Hove are full of good places to eat, so this is just a handful of our favourites:
For a memorable meal in Brighton, try Plateau for seasonal small plates and natural wines, Terre à Terre for inventive vegetarian food, or Burnt Orange for fire-cooked dishes made to share. Seafood lovers can head to Riddle & Finns in The Lanes or on the seafront for oysters, fish and Champagne.
You can also try Amari for Spanish-inspired dishes, Bincho Yakitori for Japanese small plates cooked over fire, or The Chilli Pickle for bold regional Indian food. The Flint House is a good choice for sharing plates and cocktails, while The Little Fish Market in Hove offers a more intimate seafood dinner. For a special occasion, consider the tasting menu at The Set, or head to The Coal Shed for steak and fish cooked over flame.
Here’s a full guide to the best things to do in Brighton.