Brighton is one of the most famous seaside cities in the UK, famed for its inclusivity, rich history, vibrant culture, sunshine beaches and exciting night scene. Somewhere that everyone can go, it has long been a favourite destination for those looking to relax and revive along its shores and today remains an ever-popular choice for short breaks and holidays throughout the year.
An ancient fishing village turned vibrant seaside resort, Brighton’s rich history and cultural diversity are part of its very fabric. Once a renowned Victorian health resort before becoming the playground of King George IV ("Prinny"), it is today a haven for creativity, exploration and expression. As you wander its streets, it’ll be hard to miss the vibrant splashes of colour and the assortment of architectural styles that feature along each street and create eye-catching visuals to drink in as you explore.
Getting About
If you’ve never been to Brighton before or would simply like to reacquaint yourself with this coastal city, you’ll be pleased to hear that it is fairly easy to explore on foot, bike or by car. There’s also regular public transport, so you can ditch your own wheels for a while and make use of the city’s interconnections. It is rather large though – even the beach promenade is over 4 miles long – so you’ll need lots of energy if you’re planning on a solo or guided walking tour, pencilling in plenty of stops at the city’s plethora of cafés and restaurants as you go.
By the Sea
Being a beachside resort, one of the first places to visit in Brighton would naturally have to be the seafront. With mile upon mile of prom to wander and beach to peruse, you could easily while away a whole holiday clinging to the shore – be it amongst the action or in a quiet spot of your own. As well as the rolling sea, highlights include Brighton’s iconic piers. Brighton Palace Pier is a wonderful example of Victorian architecture, whilst the remains of West Pier (closed in 1975) whisper at the city’s past and provide a fantastic photo opportunity.
Once you’ve treated yourself to a couple of scoops of ice cream whilst watching the waves roll, head over to Brighton Marina for a breezy sea life boat trip along the coast or stretch your legs along the Undercliff Path. One of the best things to do in Brighton, the Undercliff walk runs between Brighton Marina and Saltdean and follows the coast’s chalky cliffs – some of the best for fossil exposure in the UK. That said, if you’d rather try a different activity, you can also try kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding along the coast or join in with a game of beach volleyball.
Attractions
Just outside of the city margins, a journey eastward will lead you towards the Birling Gap, the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head lighthouse. Particularly beautiful, the Seven Sisters are towering cliffs overlooking the English Channel. Said to be both whiter and brighter than their famous cousins over in Dover, they are well worth a visit during your luxury holiday in Sussex. For the best views of the Seven Sisters, it doesn’t get better than Seaford Head Viewpoint in Cuckmere Haven. Meanwhile, for the best viewpoint in central Brighton, the British Airways i360 on the seafront near Regency is next level.
About Town
If you feel like swapping the walking boots for something a little more sleek, then Brighton’s multi-coloured network of streets will provide the perfect platform to do so. Home to countless shops, galleries, boutiques and markets with big brands and independent outlets, the city offers endless opportunities for indulging in a spot of retail therapy or window shopping. As you wander the streets, make sure you keep an eye out for the city’s famous street art that adorns the walls of buildings, including a replica of Banksy's 'Kissing Policemen' and a fantastic music mural.
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One of the oldest parts of the city, ‘the Lanes’ is spread out across the city’s historic quarter in a series of narrow, winding streets. Lined with Medieval buildings dating from the late 16th and 17th Century and filled with shops, it is one of the best places for shopping in Brighton. For quirky stores, veggie cafés and bohemian vibes, North Laine is the place to go, while the Cultural Quarter with the city’s world-famous 19th Century Royal Pavilion, Brighton Dome and Museum and Art Gallery is an enticing destination for culture vultures.
Food
When thoughts turn to food, you can choose from a huge array of award-winning places to eat in Brighton from high street bistros to cosy dining rooms to seafront restaurants. Serving everything from classic British fodder to afternoon teas to exotic spice-infused cuisine, you can find just the right thing to suit your tastes. Of course, there are plenty of opportunities to tuck into a hearty portion of good ol’ fish and chips doused in salt and vinegar too – especially tasty when overlooking the sea. And, if you feel like extending evening celebrations, many of the city’s bars stay open until the wee hours.
The South Downs
Should you feeling like venturing outside of the city itself, Brighton and Hove make for a fantastic base to explore the impressive Sussex countryside. Head to the South Downs National Park, home of the South Downs Way, and fill up your lungs with fresh air on a pleasant amble, cycle or hike. Whether you have two legs or four, adventures in the South Downs will be sure to leave a lasting impression and draw you back for more.
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Whatever you are after – be it exercising your legs on the coast path or dance floor with live music, a week of relaxation or weekend of activity – Brighton has a place for everyone.
Feeling inspired? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Sussex here.
