Brighton in undoubtedly one of the UK’s best destinations. It’s unique seaside charm, plethora of independent restaurants, cafes and bars, thriving creative scene and hedonistic night life is a huge draw for many.
There is something for everyone in Brighton, whether it’s a family day out, birthday celebration or a romantic seaside getaway, there are many varied things to do in Brighton to fill your boots.
This guide to Brighton showcases the key places to visit, the best places to eat and where to stay. Having lived on the outskirts of Brighton for 6 years and been a long time visitor prior to this, the City draws me back every week with something interesting to see or do.
Things To Do in Brighton
The Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion is one of the most iconic landmarks of Brighton. The Royal Pavilion is a Grade I listed building, formally housing royalty. This palace is a a feast for the eyes and makes a stunning photograph.
You can choose to hang out in the beautiful gardens that attracts many visitors and marvel at the palace from there, or you can pay an entry fee to explore the museum at your pace.
The Prince of Wales commissioned the design around 1787 as a seaside retreat, he later became King George IV. The palace has stunning domes and minarets based on Indian and Chinese architectural designs. The interiors are stunning
Tickets are priced on an individual basis, however certain local postcodes do get a discount.
Brighton Dome Theatre
Brighton Dome Theatre is located on the Royal Pavilion Estate, in the heart of bustling Brighton. This multi-arts venue and heritage site presents a whole range of events, from spoken word, music, theatre, dance, comedy and more throughout the year.
As a charity, Brighton Dome supports emerging and established local artists. Brighton Dome is responsible the renowned Brighton Festival, the largest curated arts festival in England.
SEA LIFE Brighton
SEA LIFE is the perfect rainy day activity in Brighton. Let’s face it, we are still in Britain so there will be days we need an indoor activity. Visit the world’s oldest aquarium in this mesmerising sea life experience.
View an array of captivating sea life from tropical fish, turtles to seahorses. Take a wander down the enchanting underwater glass tunnel and learn about breeding programmes and community projects happening.
This is a great option also if you are looking for things to do in Brighton with kids.
Book tickets for Sealife Brighton Here!
Brighton i360
The Brighton i360 offers panoramic views across the English Channel and across the City. It has recently re-opened, with locals getting a discount on the admission cost.
Brighton Museum and Art Gallery
Discover the tapestry of Brighton’s rich culture, history and nature through various exhibitions and displays.
There are many events run throughout the year that celebrate what makes Brighton, from LGBTQIA+ communities, the iconic seafront, the natural world, wildlife and more.
Preston Manor and Gardens
Explore how this historic Edwardian family home became a museum, for us to take a peek back in time. This fascinating old home is surrounded by beautiful, sweeping gardens and secret doorways.
It makes for an enchanting place to visit in Brighton, my kids especially love to explore the gardens here. Keep an eye out for an unusual pet cemetery!
The various rooms within Preston Manor home are an interesting insight to the regal life of the nobility past. It is a real form of escapism and proves to be one of those most popular things to do in Brighton. The manor will open for the first time in 5 years this coming April 2025.
There are a range of varied and interesting events that run throughout the year additionally.
Address: Preston Drove, Brighton, BN1 6SD
Brighton Palace Pier
Brighton Palace Pier is an icon of the the seafront and is thought to be one of the biggest attractions in the South East of England.
There are many rides and amusements to enjoy on the pier, restaurants, cafes and pubs to enjoy a bite to eat or drink whilst appreciating the sea views.
There is something so nostalgic about the smell of sweet crepes and doughnuts cooking up along the pier. We almost always get an obligatory bag of chips on our way onto the pier, whilst also fending off the hungry seagulls.
Brighton Palace Pier now charged £1 entry for each individual, which is contributed to essential maintenance of the structure.
Bike Tour of Brighton
Brighton is renowned for it’s eco and green credentials. If you are wondering what things to do in Brighton this weekend, why not explore Brighton by bicycle and book this wonderful City Tour By Bike?
The use of bicycle is covered in this 2 hour 30 minute tour, with engaging tour guides. Choose from a morning or afternoon bike ride and enjoy a peaceful cycle trail through Victoria Lawns, discovering local landmarks such as Brighton Pier, Preston Manor and the Royal Pavilion.
This is a perfect, refreshing outdoor activity where you can take in the coastal views and immerse yourself in the City of Brighton.
Book Brighton City Tour By Bike here
Brighton Walking Food Tour
The Brighton Walking Food Tour is a great way to tour the city and eat at a range of recommended, family-run eateries. This unique walking tour arranges five tasty tastings from independent food stores and establishments.
This authentic food experience is guided by Eatwith, the worlds largest community for authentic culinary experiences. This is a highly popular activity run by experienced and wonderful tour guides, so don’t miss out.
Book The Brighton Walking Food Tour here!
Zip Line
Get the adrenaline pumping by taking the South Coasts longest zip wire! You can even race your friends by opting for the dual zip line. This is such a fun activity to do on Brighton’s seafront.
Children over 8 are welcome on the zip line and must be over 1.3 meters tall.
Sea Lanes
Sea Lanes is a wonderful community hub in Brighton, offering outdoor swimming in this National Open water swimming centre.
Various events are available throughout the year, such as swimming challenges and talks.
Address: 300 Madeira Drive, Brighton BN2 1BX
Boat Cruise
Why not book a trip to visit Brighton Boat Cruise? Sailing from Brighton Marina, the Brighton Diver offers a variety of boat trips, from cruises to Beachy Head, wind farm visits or fishing trips.
This comfortable catamaran is a great way to explore the English Channel, with stunning views along the way.
Sightseeing Bus Tour
This wonderful Sightseeing Bus Tour of Brighton is hop-on/hop-off and a great way to spend an hour exploring the various sites in Brighton, with unobstructed views. Hop on or off this open top, double-decker bus as many types you like in a day or two (depending on what ticket you buy).
Visit Brighton Pier, Brighton Pavilion, Churchill Square, Brighton Marina and more. This was one of our favourite things to do in Brighton when visiting with family from abroad previously.
The tour guides are professional and informative, so you can learn all about Brighton’s sites and history in a comfortable seat.
There is on-board audio available in over 7 languages and the ticket enables you to explore Brighton City at your own pace. The ticket is also redeemable on all Brighton and Hove bus services.
Book the Sightseeing Bus Tour of Brighton Here!
Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience
The Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience is such a fun thing to do in Brighton. Inspired by some of Hollywood’s famous movies, the infamous Alcotraz Prison is brought to life.
This immersive cocktail experience is theatrics galore. Slip into your bright orange prison jumpsuit and settle down in your metallic cell. Make sure to bring your smuggled poison of choice, with all mixers, syrups and purees and bitters provided.
There is a cast of talented actors on hand (or, ahem prison guards and fellow inmates) to help make your experience realistic and enjoyable. This is one of our top fun things to do in Brighton!
Book the Alcotraz Prison Cocktail Experience Here!
The Brighton Story Walking Tour
The Brighton Story Walking Tour is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours, wandering Brighton and learning all about its rich history and quirky facts.
Learn all about Brighton’s key landmarks, a comprehensive guide to the city, discover quirky independent spots and visit the Lanes.
This walking guide is highly rated and is great value for money, all taken care of by a local and professional tour guide.
Book The Brighton Story Walking Tour Here!
Preston Park
Preston Park is more readily accessible in the City Centre. There are 63 acres of parkland, with sports facilities, a playground and café on site. Preston Park is a great place to escape the business of central Brighton.
The playpark is great for little ones, it is extensive, well equipped and with a sandpit. There are both wildflower gardens and a beautiful rock garden for the public to enjoy.
There are often events, fairs, concerts and festivals on in Preston Park throughout the year, so keep your eyes peeled. The iconic Pride festival is hosted in Preston Park annually also.
Brighton Open Air Theatre
Visit Brighton’s wonderful open-air theatre, a 400-seated outdoor theatre, nestled in the South Downs. There is an eclectic mix of events hosted here, including music, theatre, comedy, dance, opera and circus.
This is an inclusive space, with guests welcome to bring a picnic and a bottle!
Where: Dyke Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 6EH
Open Market
Visit Brighton’s historic Open Market, situated in the vibrant and buzzy part of Brighton on London Road. The Open Market showcases over 50 local makers, creators and crafts peoples products. There is a strong focus on ethical, sustainable products, alongside nutritious food.
Varied events run throughout the year also
Snoopers Paradise
If you are looking for quirky things to do in Brighton then a trip to Snoopers Paradise in the Lanes is a must. This vintage indoor flea market is a Brighton icon. You will find all sorts of trinkets and treasures here.
Snoopers Paradise is a great place simply to browse, even if you don’t want to spend money. This flea market is renowned and a must-see, housing over 90 individual stalls inside.
My kids love visiting Snoopers Paradise and always come away with a beloved oddity. You will find all sorts, from vintage jeans to jewellery, bric-a-brac, books, and there is a vintage photo-booth, which is always fun to capture retro-styled photos to remember your day in Brighton.
Address: Snoopers Paradise, 7-8 Kensington Gardens, Brighton, BN1 4AL
Things To Do in Brighton for Couples
Brighton is an intrinsically romantic location, with it’s stunning seaside vista, pretty cobbled streets and a plethora of great dining establishments.
The Lanes
My first time in Brighton, with my now husband, we loved wandering down the winding Lanes in Brighton. We would stop off for bites to eat and drinks, whilst exploring the wonderful independent shops and markets along the way.
There are many cafes, pubs and restaurants to choose from in the Lanes in Brighton and they are a must see.
If you are engaged and looking for a special ring, the jewellers in the Lanes are always dazzling to look at from the shop front.
The Lanes are divided into two sections. The original Lanes, are sometimes referred to as the “South Lanes” and then there are the North Laines, which encompasses Gardner Street and Kensington Gardens.
The North Laines are some of the best places to go in Brighton. They are vibrant, bustling with so much to see and do.
Cinema
There are two iconic establishments to catch a movie together in Brighton, to enjoy with a bucket load of snacks.
The Duke of York picture house is a romantic building in itself, first opening it’s doors in 1910, it is a Grade II listed building. Keep an eye out for the 20 foot can can dancers legs on the roof that were transported all the way from London Soho!
Address: Duke of York’s Picture house, Preston Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 4NA
Alternatively, there is Dukes at Komedia, a 2-screen cinema playing many of the contemporary releases and independent films. Komedia is easily identified by it’s big bold neon red sign.
Address: 44-47 Gardner Street, Brighton, BN1 1UN
Upside Down House
The Upside Down House in Brighton is such a fun thing to do. You can take a variety of bonkers, upside images inside the varied designed rooms, from the gaming area to a bicycle on the ceiling, this is a great activity to get the belly laughs going.
If you are looking for fun things to do in Brighton with kids then this is also a great, unique activity! Under 3’s go free.
Address: 42-43 Kings Road Arches, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2LN
Bristol Gardens Health Spa
Bristol Gardens Health Spa is one option for couples in Brighton for a day of relaxation if you don’t mind the Roman way. This is a long-running naturist health spa with hot tubs, a pool, a sauna, a jacuzzi and steam rooms.
This is a budget-friendly spa, with the optional extra massages available to book.
Free Things To Do in Brighton
We all know life can be very expensive these days. The juggle is real, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the beauty of Brighton. Here are out best picks of free things to do in Brighton.
The Beach
Brighton Beach is free to explore and enjoy. Some of our most memorable days in Brighton is throwing a rug out on the beach and enjoying a picnic on the beach.
Brighton’s beach is a mix of sand, shingles and pebbles, so it is always good to bring something to sit on. A walk along the beach is always refreshing, do keep an eye out for beach glass and interesting shells!
The promenade by West Pier has a large row of colourful beach huts which are lovely to look at. The beach and promenade are much quieter on this end, especially in the summer when Brighton beach can get pretty packed.
You can time the tide times and prepare for a cold water swim, once it is not stormy weather or unsafe. This is a bit easier in the summertime when you can dry off in the sun, however, many choose to cold water swim in the winter too!
From October through to March, at sunset, Brighton beach is the best place to witness the awe inspiring starling murmurations. They create the most incredible atmosphere and shapes, which are always picture worthy.
The stunning murmurations is one of our key things to do in Brighton in winter to help beat the blues, as it is just fascinating.
The beach is also a great place to witness sunrise, sunset and the moonrise on full moon evenings. There are many community events that gather for free on the beach for the full moon and other astrological events such as solar eclipses and planet spotting.
Also, the West Pier itself has an interesting history and always looks super atmospheric at sunset.
Undercliff Walk
If you are looking for free things to do in Brighton today, then why not visit this wonderful and historic undercliff walk?
Brighton’s undercliff walk offers an idyllic pathway along the glistening white, chalky cliff face. You can walk from Brighton to Ovingdean and Saltdean. The path is up to 5km long and is generally well maintained and of smooth surface, making it ideal for buggies and wheelchairs.
Many choose to go for a scenic run along the undercliff path, with plenty of places to stop off to swim. You can grab refreshments either at Brighton Marina, Ovingdean Gap, Rottingdean or Saltdean.
Entry points run from the east end of Madeira Drive, Brighton Marina, South End of Rottingdean High Street, the subway opposite Saltdean Lido and the cliff road opposite Longridge Avenue in Saltdean.
Saltdean Lido, at the end of the undercliff walk, is an art deco outdoor swimming pool that is popular. This is a great place to stop for lunch too and has recently been renovated.
The Secret Garden in Kemptown
This wonderful, volunteer-run community garden is a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the City Centre. This is a historic garden nestled in Kemptown and is a place of calm and joy.
There are exhibitions displayed from local Sussex artists and a cafe on site serving up delicious cake and hot drinks. This is a warm and welcoming space, with families and dogs welcome.
Preston Park Rock Garden
Booth Museum of Natural History
The Booth Museum in Brighton is entirely free for adults and children. This museum is an asset to Brighton, offering a real insight and exploration of the natural world.
There are over half a million specimens in the Booth Museum, with amazing exhibitions of prehistoric dinosaur bones, fossils, some dating back 55 million years. There are an array of bird and bug exhibitions, providing a wonderful learning opportunity for young and old alike.
Please be aware that the Booth Museum is closed for refurbishment throughout 2025.
Address: 194 Dyke Road, BN1 5AA
Where to Eat in Brighton
Brighton is renowned for its food scene, offering many exquisite local and international culinary delights. Whether you are seeking an impeccable flat white with craft coffee, fresh and local seafood, flame-grilled steak, sourdough pizza or a vegan burger, Brighton really has got it all.
The best way to explore Brighton is by savouring all of the wonderful food it has to offer, with its multiple thriving independent eateries. Many of these independent eateries focus on sustainable, seasonal ingredients.
Best Places for Breakfast/Brunch
- Nowhere Man – Nowhere Man is famed for their delicious, fluffy pancake stacks, dripping in maple syrup with toppings of choice. This is a cosy spot and the staff are super friendly.
- Moshka Caffe – Moshka Caffe is an award-winning family-run cafe serving delicious breakfasts and brunches to satisfy your hunger. The eggs royal and huevos rancheros are some of the most popular dishes, with some great vegan options too.
- Starfish and Coffee – this is an award-winning local haunt serving up delicious brunches with locally sourced ingredients. Choose from an English-cooked breakfast, pancake stack, hash or various eggs. They serve veggie and vegan options additionally.
- Mange Tout – Mange Tout is an independent bistro serving locally roasted coffee, poached eggs, croques, omelettes and plenty of baked goods.
- Cafe Rust – This stylish cafe with rustic interiors is popular for its delicious brunch options. From delicious egg florentines, cooked breakfast, rarebit and vegan options, this is one to add to your bucket list of Brighton brunches.
- Lost in the Lanes – A warm and welcoming cafe, with stylish interiors, start the day with a speciality coffee and perhaps a delicious French toast with white chocolate yoghurt.
- Fika – Fika is located along the seafront, by Sea Lanes. They serve a mean brunch with their delicious sandwiches and ace coffee. There are two other branches in Hove, with this one offering beautiful sea views.
Best Places for Lunch
- The Garden Cafe – This is an award-winning cafe, famous for its stunning floral exterior and a vast array of delicious baked goods. They offer a nice, light lunch menu from soups and sandwiches to salads.
- The Gingerman – offering a set lunch menu, this seafront restaurant offers the best of British cuisine, hosting an array of seafood and locally sourced ingredients. This is a small, stylish location with lots of character.
- Permit Rooms – Permit Rooms is the sister of London’s famous Dishoom. This all-day bar/cafe serves up a range of Indian classics, the Dishoom black daal is a must try!
Best Places for Dinner
- The Pearly Cow – The Pearly Cow is serving up locally sourced, high quality cuts of flame-grilled meats or seafood on ice. This is a stunning establishment and the staff are very helpful.
- The Coal Shed – Serving high-quality steak, seafood and vegetables cooked over the charcoal fire, the Coal Shed offers an array of small plates, fresh salads and deliciously mixed cocktails.
- Kindling Restaurant – if steak cooked over charcoal is your thing, then Kindling is worth a visit. The kitchen is open, where you can see the chefs cook your food over the fire. They also serve a mean Sunday roast.
- Terre Terre – this famous vegetarian restaurant in the heart of the Lanes offers meat-free fine dining. There is a great selection of vegan options also.
- Halisco – run by two passionate brothers, this Mexican street food place offers mouthwatering tacos and small plates. Using seasonal ingredients in their dishes and mixing the best spicy margs, don’t miss out on this place.
- Bonsai Plant Kitchen – this multi-award-winning plant-based kitchen offers sensational East Asian cuisine. The yakitori skewers are to die for!
- Furna – offering an intimate, fine dining experience using sustainable practices such as foraging and rotating ingredients throughout the seasons. Enjoy the al la carte menu or the specialist tasting menu which is mind blowingly innovative and creative!
Best Places for Sweet Treats/Dessert
- Boho Gelato – serving a range of delicious ice-cream using locally sourced ingredients, there are great dairy free options. I love grabbing a milkshake from here to finish my day of munching!
- Gelato Gusto – I discovered Gelato Gousto by the i360 when there was a queue out the door. We needed ice-cream and soon discovered why everyone was queueing. There was such a great selection of gelato, including many dairy-free options and all of the cones were vegan, which made my dairy dodging little girl very happy!
Best Hotels in Brighton
There are many unique hotels in the City, whether you are after an independent boutique hotel or a more classic seafront hotel in Brighton, here are our best picks:
The Grand
The Grand is an iconic seafront hotel with a romantic renaissance style façade. With high quality furnishings and stylish cocktail bar, this is an ideal place to relax on your trip to Brighton.
Drakes
Drakes is a boutique seafront hotel, overlooking Brighton Palace Pier. Exceptionally located, the King Room with sea view makes the perfect spot to luxuriate in the large free standing bath.
You may also want to check out our Unusual Places To Stay in Sussex guide.
Things To Do Near Brighton
Stanmer Park
Stanmer Park is a lovely breath of fresh air and a great place to visit for a walk. It is Brighton’s largest park and known as the “gateway” to the ever rolling South Downs.
There is an 18th Century working village inside the park with historic church and pond. The wonderful walled “One Garden” is a must see also.
There is a well equipped playground near the Lower Lodges end and a car park nearby. The rolling farmland on site is wonderful in Spring as you can see the lambs pottering about.
Stanmer House is a stunning historic Georgian House serving delicious food such as roast dinners and afternoon teas. The café serves up delicious barista coffee and traditional English snacks.
Devils Dyke
Devil’s Dyke is one of our favourite places for a family walk near Brighton. Devil’s Dyke is a stunning part of the South Downs Way, offering panoramic views of the landscape. This is also a great place if you are looking for one of the Best Dog Walks in Sussex.
Devils Dyke can be walked, ran or cycled – choose your mode of getting around and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. You can also catch an open-top bus to Devils Dyke from Brighton in the summer (bus number 77), which is always a lovely experience, especially if you don’t drive.
The valley at Devils Dyke is Britain’s deepest and widest dry valley and is over a mile long. There are plenty of footpaths and walking trails to explore.
How To Get To Brighton
Brighton is notoriously difficult and expensive to park, as people are encouraged to use public transport.
Train
Brighton is well services via it’s main London Road Train Station, with many direct trains to Brighton. There are trains coming from London Victoria, London Bridge, Eastbourne, Worthing, Southampton, Luton, Cambridge, Lewes and Chichester.
There are also train stations nearby, surrounding Brighton City Centre including Hove, Preston Park and London Road Brighton.
Bus
Brighton has a main coach station centrally and is serviced by the National Express. Brighton and Hove are well serviced by a network of local buses additionally. Find out more information here.
Air
The nearest airport for commercial flights is Gatwick Airport, which is approximately 45 minutes from Brighton in a car. There is also a direct train from Gatwick Airport to Brighton.
Day Tour From Brighton
Have you got a little longer in Brighton and looking to explore the surrounding areas? There are many day trips you can do from Brighton.
Lewes
Lewes is a charming town to visit and only 20 minutes from Brighton. It has a castle to explore, beautiful cobbled streets and loads of great independent businesses. It is also home to a 15th-century book shop!
For more information on, don’t miss out on our guide: Lewes East Sussex: A Local’s 10+ Hidden Gems
Worthing
Why not take a direct train from Brighton to Worthing, the quieter seaside town in West Sussex. Worthing has a beautiful seafront and beach. It is brimming with delicious eateries and cafes. Make sure to visit the iconic Dome Cinema and Worthing Pie.
Isle of Wight Day Trip
Book this amazing Isle of Wight Day Trip from Brighton. Take an air conditioned coach and prearranged ferry to the quaint and quintessentially British Isle of Wight. With professional and highly regarded tour guides, the day trip is seamless for you to enjoy the stunning vistas of this Island.
Enjoy a panoramic chair lift, explore a a quaint village with medieval church, traditional tearooms and thatched cottages, and be sure to snap the globally renowned “Needles”.
The tour guides will keep you informed along your way to maximise your experience.
Find Tickets of the Isle of Wight Day Trip Here
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