day trips from brighton by train

13 BEST Day Trips from Brighton, England

Looking for the best day trips from brighton from exploring ancient arundel castle to the seven sisters, check out these amazing brighton day trips..

Everyone knows and loves Brighton, right? It’s got this buzzing excitement like few other places in England. There are some incredible restaurants, you can’t help but feel like a kid again at Brighton Pier, and the views along the coast are stunning. I for one absolutely love it there, and I know I’m not the only one!

Due to its location, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Brighton that you can visit within a couple of hours’ drive from the city itself. And if you don’t have access to a car, don’t worry. There are also loads of train routes out of Brighton on a daily basis. That means you’ll be able to visit all of these places listed very easily!

So, where are you heading, that’s the question?

Whether you want to dive into history at Anne Boleyn’s old house at Hever Castle, or you want to breathe in the fresh English air in the South Downs National Park, you can easily find something to fit all interests and budgets.

I love that the wider Sussex area is filled with quaint towns, shops, pubs and excursions, but if you want something a little more fast-paced, you can get into London in about 45 minutes.

So, what amazing and inspiring activities can you expect to discover on a Brighton day trip? Let’s dive in and find out more!

Day Trips from Brighton

South downs national park.

One of the best things about being in East Sussex is that you’re only around half an hour by car away from the lush greenery of the South Downs National Park. 

Whether you just fancy a slow walk around some of the more popular trails, or you’ve come prepared with a bike to work up a sweat, you’re almost guaranteed a lovely day out just a short distance from the city. 

One of the walks we’d really recommend is Kingley Vale . Just wait till you see the ancient yew forest here – it’s amazing!

Arundel Castle

There is no shortage of beautiful castles in the area surrounding Brighton, but Arundel Castle is up there with the best. Town around it are picturesque and bring to mind fairytale imagery.

With almost 1,000 years of history spread throughout the castle and the accompanying gardens, this site has seen so much. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate everything that’s gone on here.

You can get here in 40 minutes by car from Brighton, or change at Barnham on the train. This really is one of the best places to visit near Brighton, so check it out!

Quaint, postcard towns are scattered across East Sussex, but the seaside town of Rye is something else entirely. Known for its cobblestone streets and independent shops and restaurants, Rye is a pleasant place to while away the day.

If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s also a popular spot for watersports such as windsurfing. Get that adrenaline pumping before finding a cosy pub to warm up in with a meal and a pint. Sounds perfect, right?

Hever Castle

Harking back to the 13th century, Hever Castle is a beautiful castle in neighbouring Kent, but it’s the residents of the castle that makes it interesting.

As the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII’s second wife, Hever Castle is forever tied into the bloody royal history of Tudor England.

Here you can explore the medieval and renaissance-era rooms before wandering around the expansive gardens. Honestly, you have to see them to understand how beautiful they are. For me, this is definitely one of the best day trips from Brighton!

The Seven Sisters

Do you love looking out over stunning coastal views? Then head to The Seven Sisters area. This is a series of chalk cliffs that are an iconic image of England.

From here you can see out across the English Channel towards France. One of my favourite walks here is the Beachy Head walk . This is the highest section of the cliffs, and once again the views are just magnificent.

It’s a geological marvel and has been studied for centuries. Pack a picnic and your hiking boots and explore this patch of coastal paradise. Just make sure you’re ready to have sore legs the next day!

If you’re looking for a tour from Brighton, then this one is the best around . It even includes visit the South Downs National Park too!

I love a small English town, but the best time to visit the nearby town of Lewes is on Bonfire Night. The 5th November celebrations are on a whole other level in Lewes with effigies of disliked figures being burned, huge bonfires, firework displays, parades, and more all occurring.

The rest of the year, Lewes is a pleasant and historic market town, filled with cosy and delicious pubs, a beautiful castle, and even another house belonging to one of Henry VIII’s wives – Anne of Cleves house, King Henry VIII’s fourth wife.

If you’re looking for a quirky seaside town to visit that’s only an hour away from Brighton, a day trip to Hastings might be just what you’re after. This historic town was made famous by the 1066 Battle of Hastings, where William the Conqueror became King of England.

Nowadays, you can wander the pebbled beaches, explore the independent shops, and take the cliffside funicular railway up the face of the cliff, giving you expansive views over the bay.

Afterwards, wander around the town and call into one of the many amazing restaurants and bars that litter the quaint streets.

What can be said about London that hasn’t already been said? The bustling and vibrant capital of the UK is one of the most visited places in the world, so it’s no surprise this is one of the most popular Brighton day trips.

From iconic museums to world-class restaurants to exhibitions and attractions, and more, you can visit a dozen times over and still not see and do everything.

You can get to London in just over an hour on the train from Brighton, and with the traffic and congestion charges in London, I would not recommend driving!

One of the best ways of seeing London is on a Thames River cruise . These tours are always a great way of ticking off a lot of the major sites in London like Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

Wine Tasting Tours

Okay, so English wines might not be as famous as French or Italian wines, but they’re definitely coming up through the ranks and making waves. The area around East Sussex is one of the warmest and driest parts of the country, making it perfect for growing grapes.

Mostly specialising in dry white wines and sparkling wines, there are a handful of popular vineyards within an hour’s drive of Brighton. Take a tour of the premises, have a tasting, and maybe buy a bottle or two to have when you get back to your Brighton base. Just make sure to have a designated driver at the ready! 

Bournemouth

As lovely as the Brighton beaches are, they are pebble beaches rather than soft golden sand. For that, you can go on a day trip to Bournemouth.

Another popular holiday spot, Bournemouth is one of the furthest day trips on this list being around two to two and a half hours away from Brighton by car in Dorset.

Located on the south coast of England, you can spread out along the seven miles of sand or wander the iconic pier and take in the sea views. If you’re looking for a quintessential family day out at the beach, this is the place to be!

Herstmonceux

Are you interested in the world of astronomy and space travel? Located a short 50-minute drive outside of the Brighton city limits you’ll find the Herstmonceux observatory . Even though it’s less than an hour away from Brighton, this part of the Sussex countryside is famous for its dark skies status.

You can take part in guided tours of the observatory, and learn about the history and science behind the site. The real magic happens when the sun goes down and you can see the stars in all their glory. If you don’t mind wrapping up warm, clear Winter days may be best as it gets dark earlier.

Devil’s Dyke

Despite the odd name, Devil’s Dyke is a hugely popular V-shaped valley within the South Downs National Park. Filled with exciting and varied hiking trails, designed to suit a range of abilities and time restraints, this area is popular with dog walkers, runners, cyclists, and more.

With a car park operated by the National Trust, you can take advantage of free parking if you’re a member. After you’ve finished wandering, head to the Devil’s Dyke pub for a refreshing pint and a well-earned pub lunch before journeying back to Brighton.

If you’re interested in naval or maritime history, there is no better palace to visit in the UK than Portsmouth. As the hub of a lot of British Naval activity throughout history, you can explore plenty of amazing sights, including the HMS Victory , an old naval ship that is docked in Portsmouth Harbour. It’s definitely an impressive place to walk around and learn about, even if you’re not a fan of boats or military history!

If you want more Tudor history, check out the restored Mary Rose that has been raised from the ocean floor after it was sunk back in the 16th century and has been painstakingly restored and displayed in Portsmouth.

You can get here in just over an hour by car and an hour and 20 minutes by train.

So, whether you’re looking for history, culture, or adventure there are so many amazing tours and day trips from Brighton to explore. Which one of these are you most looking forward to doing? You can let me know in the comments below!

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25 Historical Day Trips From Brighton

Whatever your interests, in the seaside city of Brighton you will find something to engage all ages. Whether it is the regency splendour of the Royal Pavilion or the rides and activities on the Brighton Palace Pier. If it is the city location that attracts you, Brighton – ideally situated between East and West Sussex – is a prefect base from which to explore this part of the south coast of England. From prehistoric and Roman sites to the Battle of Hastings and many great medieval castles. From historic houses to an Art Deco airport. Here, we recommend 25 day trips from Brighton, under or around an hour away.

Dulcie Newbury

• Last Checked and/or Updated 15 December 2021
• No Comments
• England , England Travel Tips , Top Picks

Although a seaside town, Brighton is not simply a beach destination. As one of the most diverse and vibrant seaside cities, there are many reasons to visit the city and explore its vibrant culture. As well as its extraordinary history. For our take on things to do in Brighton, see our recommendations for the Oldest Historical Sites and Landmarks that should not be missed.

If you are staying for more than a few days, or if you live there and are looking for ideas for a day trip from Brighton we have 25. Some, such as hopping on a train to London, you may have thought about. If travelling for an hour is your maximum, there is so much to see and do in a day whilst staying in Brighton. From Hampshire in the west to Kent in the east, as well as East Sussex and West Sussex in between.

From expansive views over vast countryside to quaint market towns and historic attractions. Prehistory, Romans Normans and Victorians. Weather you are in search of art or history, good food or long walks. You will certainly be spoilt for choice with our suggestions for daytrips from Brighton listed below. And of course, these are the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Use our interactive map to find landmarks and points of interest that interest you. Add them or create your own itinerary.

Lewes Castle & Museum

Lewes Castle is a medieval castle in the town of Lewes, East Sussex. The castle stands high on a man-made mound and is constructed from limestone and flint blocks. Unusually, Lewes Castle has two mottes. The first motte, known as Brack Mount, was completed shortly after the Norman conquest in 1066. The second motte, known as the Keep, was completed in the 11th century. Steep climbs to the top of the castle are rewarded by spectacular panoramic views of the area and the mottes.

The museum houses a beautiful archaeological collection which includes prehistoric flints, fine Roman pottery, Saxon weapons and medieval gold rings. Features include interactive displays, a medieval gallery and a mini cinema that tells the story of Lewes. The bookshop sells new and second-hand books on the history and archaeology of Lewes and the wider area.

Lewes is a 20-minute drive from Brighton and the narrow, cobbled streets and beautiful shops on the high street make it a picturesque day trip from the city.

Saltdean Lido

Saltdean Lido is the only Grade II* listed lido in the UK. It was built in 1937-38 to the designs by the architect Richard Jones and was hailed as the most innovative design of its type in Britain. It consisted of a tea terrace, sun deck, a café on the flat roof, and had curved wings at either end. The Art Deco design of the building has been described as glorious and elegant.

During WWII, the lido was used by the National Fire Service. The pool was used as a water tank and the grounds were used by instructors and fire officers for training purposes. During this time, the site was closed to the general public, but the changing rooms were used for church services and a Sunday School.

Throughout its history, Saltdean Lido has been closed re-opened many times. In the 1990s, local authorities were selling off lido swimming pools due to the maintenance costs of these ageing structures. In 1997 a group of business men took on the site from the council but planned to close the pool forever. The Save Saltdean Lido Campaign was set up in March 2010 by local residents after plans were announced to fill the swimming pool and create 102 apartments. A successful application from this group to English Heritage resulted in the lido being protected, restored, and re-opened to the public in May 2017.

Saltdean is a coastal village in the city of Brighton & Hove. It is roughly 5 miles east of Brighton making it a very short drive from the centre. Although Saltdean Lido may not be considered a day trip from the city, it is certainly a charming way to spend an afternoon.

Bodiam Castle, Robertsbridge

Bodiam Castle in a 14th century castle near Robertsbridge in East Sussex. At just over an hour drive from Brighton, this castle will invoke the childhood concept of knights in shining armour and great battles!

Bodiam Castle was built in 1385 by Sir Edward Dalyngrigge, a former knight of Edward III. The castle was built to defend the area against the French invasion during the Hundred Years’ War but was also designed to be an inviting home. The design of the castle is intriguing; the castle is quadrangular in plan and has no keep. Its corners and entrance are marked by towers and topped by crenellations. It also features inner courts, which allowed for space for those living and working within the castle.

Bodiam Castle is home to one of the largest bat roosts in south-east England and houses 5 different species of bats. The castle is the archetypal 14th century moated castle with ruined interior and provides a glimpse into medieval life and splendour.

Arundel Castle & Gardens

Arundel Castle boasts nearly 1,000 years of history and is situated in spectacular grounds overlooking the River Arun. It was built in the 11th century by Roger de Montgomery, Earl of Arundel. The oldest feature is the motte constructed in 1068. Apart from the occasional reversion to the Crown, Arundel Castle has descended directly from 1138 to the present day, carried by female heiresses.

During the Civil War (1642-45), the castle was badly damaged. Nothing was done to rectify this damage until 1718. The impressive building that we see now owes much to Henry, 15th Duke of Norfolk who completed a restoration project in 1900.

The castle houses a fascinating collection of furniture dating from the 16th century, tapestries, clocks, impressive portraits by Gainsborough, Mytens, Lawrence, and others, and personal possessions of Mary, Queen of Scots and historical, religious and heraldic items from the Duke of Norfolk’s collection.

Arundel Castle gardens consist of a vinery, a 19th century walled kitchen garden, cut flower border and Fitzalan Chapen with its own white garden, and more. The impressive castle, rich in history and the beautiful gardens provide a day trip from Brighton that is both educational and serene. Arundel is a 40-minute drive from Brighton.

The Priest House & Gardens, West Hoathly

The Priest House stands in a traditional cottage garden in the quaint village of West Hoathly on the edge of the Ashdown Forest. West Hoathly is a 50-minute drive through picturesque Sussex countryside from Brighton. The house is a Grade II* listed 15th century timber framed hall house with a central hearth and was originally thatched. The house belonged to Anne of Cleves, Thomas Cromwell, Mary I and Elizabeth I. The house hosts the fascinating museum of Sussex Folklore and the garden consists of over 170 culinary, medicinal and household herbs.

There are apotropaic marks (witch marks) scratched into several placed in the Priest House including the front door. They are believed to be dated to the 17th century and were thought to prevent witches from entering the house. Another key object is The Suffragette Handkerchief which consists of 66 embroidered signatures and two sets of initials, mostly of women imprisoned in HMP Holloway for their part in the Women’s Social and Political Union Suffragette demonstrations in March 1912.

Fishbourne Roman Palace

Fishbourne Roman Palace is in the village of Fishbourne, Chichester which is an hour drive from Brighton & Hove. The palace is the largest residential Roman building discovered in Britain and is dated to 75 AD. The palace was excavated by Barry Cunliffe after it was accidentally discovered by Aubrey Barrett, an engineer who was laying water mains across the field. Much of the palace has been excavated, preserved and consists of an on-site museum. Areas of the palace and the formal gardens have been reconstructed.

The original palace had roughly 100 rooms, most of which had mosaic floors. These floors were laid at the time of the construction of the palace, which makes them some of the oldest mosaics in the country. The palace gardens are the earliest dated gardens and Fishbourne Roman Palace hosts the largest collection of mosaics in situ in the UK.

Fishbourne Roman Palace provides hands-on family events and displays a wide range of Roman objects. The site will transport you back in time to a life of luxury during the Roman period.

The Long Man of Wilmington

The Long Man of Wilmington or the Wilmington Giant is a hill figure on the steep slopes of Windover Hill, near Wilmington which is a 30-minute drive from Brighton. The Long Man is 235 feet tall, holds two “staves” and is designed to look in proportion when viewed from below. It is a Scheduled Ancient Monument.

The origin of the Long Man remains unclear; for many years the earliest known record was a drawing dated to 1766. It was previously thought to have originated from the Iron Age, or even the Neolithic period, but in 2003 archaeological investigation showed that the figure was likely cut in the 16th or 17th century AD.

Although the Long Man is not as old as people had previously thought, the many theories and beliefs surrounding this dominating figure in the East Sussex countryside make it a beguiling site for an afternoon walk.

Shoreham Airport

While visiting Shoreham for Marlipins Museum, it is worthwhile to stop by the famous airport. Shoreham Airport was founded in 1910 and is the oldest purpose-built commercial aiport in the world that is still in operation.

The 1930s art deco terminal building was designed by R Stavers Hessell Titlman and is Grade II* listed. The first aviator to fly there was Harold H. Piffard and the site holds a memorial garden that celebrates his flight. During the First World War, Shoreham Airport was used by the Royal Flying Corps and was one of the departure points for the earlier flights to join the conflict across the Channel.

Today, the airport is used by privately owned planes, flying schools and for light aircraft and helicopter maintenance and sales. The beautiful and bold art deco building is a site to see, and the Hummingbird Café located in the Main Terminal building is the perfect spot for afternoon tea with views across the South Downs National Park.

Hever Castle & Gardens, Kent

Hever Castle & Gardens is located in the village of Hever, Kent which is just over an hour drive from Brighton & Hove. There are three main periods in the construction of this historic castle. The oldest part dates to 1270 and consisted of the gatehouse and walled bailey. The second period was when the castle was converted into a manor in 1462 by Geoffrey Boleyn. He added a Tudor home within the walls. The third period of repair and renovation was in the 20th century.

The castle was the childhood home of Anne Boleyn, King Henry VIII’s second wife who was the Queen of England for 1,000 days. Hever Castle was later passed into the ownership of Anne of Cleves, another one of Henry VIII’s many wives.

The gardens at Hever Castle were laid out between 1904 and 1908 by Joseph Cheal and Son, who turned the marshland into the spectacular gardens we see today. The castle is also home to one of the best collections of Tudor portraits outside of the National Portrait Gallery. The many rooms, collections, exhibitions and events that are held at Hever Castle ensure that there is something for everyone at this historically rich site.

Chanctonbury Ring

Chanctonbury Ring is a prehistoric hill fort atop Chanctonbury Hill on the South Downs. A ridgeway which is now part of the South Downs Way runs along the hill. It forms a part of a number of historical features which were created over a span of roughly 2,000 years.

Chanctonbury Ring consists of a roughly circular low earthen rampart surrounded by a ditch and is thought to date to the late Bronze Age or Early Iron Age. The purpose of the structure is unknown but is likely to have filled a variety of roles such as a defensive position, a cattle enclosure, or even a religious shrine. After a few centuries of usage, the site was abandoned for roughly 500 years until it was reoccupied during the Roman period. Two Romano-British temples were built in the interior.

The site was abandoned again and remained unoccupied until a mid-18th century landowner planted a ring of beech trees around its perimeter. The walk from the car park to Chanctonbury Ring is scenic and the stunning views across the South Downs are an excellent place to stop for a picnic but beware, there is an old myth that if you walk around the hill seven times, Satan will appear and offer you a delicious bowl of soup in exchange for your soul!

Bramber Castle, Steyning

Bramber Castle is a Norman motte-and-bailey castle and is situated near Steyning, overlooking the River Adur. The castle was built around 1070 and served as the administrative hub of the newly created Rape of Bramber.

Little survives of the original structure as much of the stone was later used to construct the bridge and other buildings in the village. The most prominent remaining feature is the gatehouse tower, which stands to its full height with a window and floor joist holes are clearly visible. Also visible are the foundations of what is believed to have been the living quarters and a guardhouse. Situated to the north of the gatehouse is the original castle motte. A small church is located next to the entrance which was originally constructed for the castle’s inhabitants and is still in use today.

Bramber Castle is a short drive from Brighton and Chanctonbury Ring.

Church of St Mary the Blessed Virgin, Sompting

Sompting is a village and civil parish in the coastal Adur Dictrict of West Sussex and is a 30-minute drive from Brighton. Settlement of the area now covered by Sompting began in the Bronze Age and continued through to the Roman period. The Church of St Mary the Blessed Virgin is the Church of England parish church of Sompting.

There was a church on the site of the present building in the 11th century, and some structural elements remain from that era. In 1154, William de Braose, the 3rd Lord of Bramber passed the building to the Knights Templar who made structural changes. They widened the church by rebuilding the nave and chancel to the same width as the Saxon-era tower.

The church fell into decay during the 18th century when the living was poor in this area. The tower is the most important feature of the church and is known nationally and internationally as an exemplar of Saxon architecture. The spire is the Rhenish helm design and is unique in England with a cap of four shingled gables rising steeply in a pyramid formation. The Church of St Mary the Blessed Virgin is listed as a Grade I building by English Heritage for its architecture and history.

Cissbury Ring, West Sussex

Cissbury Ring is an 84.2-hectare biological Site of Special Scientific Interest north of Worthing in West Sussex. Cissbury Ring is a 40-minute drive from Brighton & Hove.

Located on the South Downs, human activity prior to the Neolithic period was limited. It is thought that hunters used the South Downs as a vantage point for spotting animal herds. The Neolithic period saw the development of settlements and an extensive flint mining operation was carved out on the southern side of the hill. Agricultural settlements continued to grow during the early Bronze Age when the site appears to have been used as a burial ground. Two round barrows have been identified here.

The Iron Age hill fort of Cissbury Ring was constructed around 400BC and was used for roughly 300 years. The hill fort encloses around 26 hectares and originally had two entrances. After 100BC the interior of the fort was used for agriculture. Evidence from the Roman period consists of a group of 11 buildings and two rectangular enclosures near the eastern entrance to the fort. There is also evidence that there was once a mint here.

Today, Cissbury Ring is a place where people can walk, enjoy the views and appreciate the countryside.

Bignor Roman Villa

Bignor Roman Villa is situated north of the South Downs about an hour drive from Brighton. The villa was discovered by George Tupper in 1811 after striking the Summer dining room water basin with his plough. The villa is still managed by the Tupper family today who continue to strive to maintain the site for the education and enjoyment of all who visit.

The earliest structural remains of Bignor Roman Villa are of a simple timber farm structure dating to c.190 AD. A four-roomed stone building was built in the middle of the 3rd century AD and was extended between 240-290 AD. The building became the western wing when north and south wings were added at the turn of the 4th century. In its final form, the villa consisted of roughly 65 rooms surrounding a courtyard. The latest phase of the building consisted of additions to the north wing between c.300-350 AD, where most of the mosaics are located. The mosaics are some of the best Roman mosaics to be found in the UK, both in terms of preservation, artistic merit and detailing.

Devil’s Dyke

Devil’s Dyke is a 100m deep V-shaped valley on the South Downs Way, just outside Brighton & Hove. It is part of a Site of Special Scientific Interest and was a major local tourist attraction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Dyke is formed in rocks of the Chalk Group which originated as marine sediments during the Cretaceous period. The hills surrounding the valley rise to 217 metres and offer spectacular views of the South Downs. Ramparts of an Iron Age hillfort remain visible and a cosy pub is situated at the top. In late Victorian times, Devil’s Dyke became a tourist attraction with a fairground, two bandstands and an observatory. Local folklore explains the dyke as the work of the Devil with many origin stories revolving around him. At the bottom of the dyke there are two humps known as the Devil’s Graves, under which the Devil and his wife are supposedly buried. Similar to Chanctonbury Ring, if a person runs backwards 7 times around these humps while holding their breath, the Devil will appear.

Devil’s Dyke is a beautiful place for long walks and is a popular site for paragliding. Devil’s Dyke has also been used as a lesbian campsite during Brighton Pride weekend.

Cuckmere Haven

Cuckmere Haven is an area of flood plains in Sussex where the river Cuckmere meets the English Channel and is a 40-minute drive from Brighton. It is a popular tourist destination where people can go for long walks down to the beach to see the Seven Sisters cliffs.

The wreck of the Polynesia, a German sailing ship that went down in April 1890 west of Beachy Head is exposed at low tide. The beach is known for being used by smugglers between the 16th and 18th centuries. During WWII, the site was studied by the Luftwaffe as they flew missions to identify potential landing sites for the invasion of the UK mainland. A series of counter-landing defences such as pillboxes, anti-tank obstacles, ditches and tank traps were built, with many still surviving.

Cuckmere Haven is also home to a variety of wildlife and has a rich ecosystem making it the perfect day trip for history and nature lovers alike.

Rudyard Kipling House, Rottingdean

Rottingdean is a village located just outside Brighton & Hove. A 15-minute drive will take you to the centre of Rottingdean which is often the subject of picture postcards. This quaint seaside town was once the home of the famous writer Rudyard Kipling.

The house called The Elms was built by William Ridge in 1745. Rudyard Kipling rented The Elms for three guineas a week from 1897 to 1902. It was in this house that he wrote many of the famous “Just So Stories”. Sadly, when his eldest daughter Josephine died in 1899 he could no longer feel happy in Rottingdean and left for a more secluded existence in Burwash.

Kiplings Gardens is open to the public and were once part of The Elms. The gardens are considered a fine example of horticultural excellence and include the walled Rose Garden, a Herb Garden and a Wild Garden. The Wild Garden is a beautiful area to enjoy a picnic and read one of the “Just So Stories”.

Anne of Cleves House, Lewes

Anne of Cleves House is a 16th century timer-framed house located in Lewes, a 30-minute drive from Brighton. The house formed part of Queen Anne’s annulment settlement from King Henry VIII in 1541.

Anne of Cleves House is owned by the Sussex Archaeological Society and is currently a museum home to a wide-ranging collection of furniture and artefacts related to Sussex. The bedroom and kitchen of the house are furnished to resemble their original appearance at the time it was owned by Anne of Cleves. The museum also hosts an exhibition of Wealden iron making, including large machinery such as a hammer from Etchingham Forge.

Although the house belonged to Anne of Cleves, there is no record of her ever visiting the site. The house has a café and the Tudor Tea Garden is open to visitors to enjoy.

Pevensey Castle

Pevensey Castle began in the 4th century as one of the last and strongest of the Roman ‘Saxon Shore’ forts. Two-thirds of the towered walls still stand today. It is famous as it is the landing place of William the Conqueror’s army in 1066. During King Stephen’s reign (1135-54) the castle was granted to Gilbert de Clare. When Gilbert rebelled in 1147, the castle was blockaded until its inhabitants were starved into submission and the Crown repossessed it.

The castle was occupied more or less continuously until the 16th century when it was abandoned and remained a crumbling, partly overgrown ruin until it was acquired by the state in 1925. Pevensey Castle was reoccupied during WWII when it was garrisoned by units from the Home Guard, the British and Canadian armies and the United States Army Air Corps. Machine-gun posts were built into the Roman and medieval walls to control the land around Pevensey and guard against the threat of German invasion. These can still be seen today.

With a history stretching back over 16 centuries, Pevensey Castle is rich in history. The site is an hour drive from Brighton and is a perfect day trip for history lovers.

Eartham Pit, Boxgrove

Eartham Pit is an internationally important archaeological site. The oldest human remains in Britain were discovered here – fossils of Homo heidelbergensis, which date to c.500,000 years ago. Boxgrove is also one of the oldest sites with direct evidence of hunting a butchering by humans. The huge quantity of well-preserved animal bones, numerous flint artefacts, and hominin fossils are among some of the most ancient found yet in Europe. The wing bone of a great auk was found at the site, which is the oldest found bone of the species.

In August 2020, archaeologists announced that they had discovered the earliest bone tools ever found in Europe at the site and said that it provides further evidence that early human populations at Boxgrove were cognitively, socially, and culturally sophisticated.

Boxgrove is a village in the Chichester District of West Sussex. It is a 50-minute drive from Brighton & Hove, through scenic countryside. Boxgrove is best known for the Palaeolithic site discovered in a gravel quarry known as Eartham Pit which was excavated between 1983 and 1996 by a team of archaeologists from University College London.

Michelham Priory, Upper Dicker

Michelham Priory is the site of a former Augustine Priory in Upper Dicker, a 40-minute drive from Brighton. The surviving buildings are owned by the Sussex Archaeological Society and are Grade I and Grade II listed.

The Augustine Priory of the Holy Trinity was founded by Gilbert de Aquila in 1229. The Priory was seized in 1537 under Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries and was then granted to Thomas Cromwell. After the execution of Thomas Cromwell in 1540, it was given to Anne of Cleves.

The T-shaped stone-built structure, the east and north wings date from the 13th century, with the west wing dated to the 16th century. The area is surrounded by a motte, which encloses an area of almost 8 hectares. Michelham Priory is one of the most widely reported haunted places in Sussex. Visitors claim to have seen black hooded monks and a lady dressed in Tudor clothing walking the corridors!

A beautiful watermill in the grounds has been restored to working order. The Tudor building includes an interactive Victorian kitchen, a WWII evacuee bedroom and a Prior’s room. The gardens boast 15 acres of grounds with a kitchen garden, medieval herb garden, a replica Bronze Age roundhouse, an interactive medieval gallery in the 14th century gatehouse, and a café.

Newhaven Fort

Newhaven fort is the last of a long series of defences built on the cliffs overlooking Seaford Bay, dating back to the Iron Age. The first gun was sent to Newhaven in 1548 following a raid on Seaford by the French. Over the next 300 years, the gun defences were updated, however they often fell into disrepair.

In 1759, the first permanent gun battery was built at the site. By the late 1850s, Napoleon the Third was building up his navy and strengthening his coastal defences and Newhaven Fort was one of 72 coastal forts to be built. Designed by 22-year-old Lieutenant John Charles Ardagh, construction of Newhaven Fort was started in 1862 and took 10 years and 6 million bricks to complete!

At the end of the 19th century, the fort needed updating and was practically rebuilt. Modern guns were installed and when WWI broke out, the harbour became even more important to Britain. When WWII broke out, Newhaven Fort was a vital element in the defence against the threat of German invasion. Thousands of soldiers were stationed in the area with troops sent from here for the Normandy landings of 1944.

Today, Newhaven Fort houses hundreds of genuine military artefacts, hosts a realistic air-raid recreation in the Blitz Bomb Shelter and has some stunning views. This site is a 30-minute drive from Brighton and is a great place for a day trip to learn about UK defence systems and war efforts.

Although Hastings is just over an hour drive from Brighton & Hove, its significance deemed it worthy to be included in this guide to day trips from the city. Hastings is a seaside town and gives its name to the Battle of Hastings, which took place in 1066.

When visiting Hastings, be sure to visit the 1066 battlefield. Today it is peaceful with flowers and wildlife, but this evocative landscape will transport you back in time to the great battle for the future of king and country. The visitor centre includes interactive displays and a short film that re-tells the story of the battle.

The atmospheric ruins of William the Conqueror’s famous abbey can be explored, and you can stand of the very spot where King Harold is said to have died! The stonework is to be admired and the Duchess of Cleveland’s Victorian walled garden provides a glimpse into the abbey’s history.

Steeped in redefining elements of the history of the UK, Hastings is a perfect day trip from Brighton with the seaside town providing charming walks along the beach and high street and informative displays and collections related to the 1066 battle.

Much like Hastings, London is too significant to be left off the list of day trips from Brighton & Hove. Easily accessible by an hour train journey or a 1.5 hour drive, London is the perfect day out. Humans have lived in the London area from the Palaeolithic time, through to the Romans and up to present day.

Direct trains from Brighton to London go to three rail stations. They are: London Victoria (52 minutes), London Bridge (58 minutes) and London St Pancras (1 hour and 16 minutes). Find these stations on our interactive map (see below), and then search for attractions and points of interest within your chosen walking distance.

Suggestions for things to do in London can be found in our London Travel Guide.

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The top 10 day trips from Brighton

I’d love to say, ‘why would you go anywhere else if you’re already in the awesome Sussex city of Brighton along the South Coast?’ But there are some fantastic day trips from Brighton.

You’d really be missing out if you skipped these!

Day trips from Brighton

• Getting there by car: 20 minutes
• Getting there by train: 20 minutes from central Brighton Station

There’s no better time to visit this sleepy Sussex time than on ‘remember remember the 5th of November’. Each Bonfire Night, it hosts England’s largest celebrations, and they go back a long-arse time. You’ll see huge political figurines go up in smoke, flaming barrels and ancient processions.

The rest of the year, Lewes is quaint and cute, with windy streets and a village atmosphere. It’s a direct train and a top day out from Brighton, taking about 20 minutes.

2. The Seven Sisters

Perfect for kite flying and jaw dropping views, this is a stretch of curvy white cliffs dipping their way into the sea. The locals walk dogs, scratch messages into the wood of the sea bollards and feel the wind in their hair.

The view everyone wants, and splashes across the internet, is from Seaford Head, which also has parking.

If you don’t drive, you can get here here by bus using the A259 every 15 mins at peak times over the summer, and every half hour on Sundays.

3. South Downs National Park

• Getting there by car: the Downs start more or less from the city boundary, but the most common starting point (Devil’s Dyke) is around 25 minutes by car.

Luscious greenery just outside the city? Yes please. This stunning area is free to enter, made up of wide meadows, roaming sheep and patchwork views.

Best for picnicking is the amusingly named Devil’s Dyke, which is by a pub of the same name. There’s a pint in there with your name on it!

4. Arundel Castle and town

• Getting there by car: 40 minutes on the A27
• Getting there by train: around an hour, changing at Barnham

Close your eyes and think of where Sleeping Beauty grew up. Chances are, you’ve pictured Arundel. It looks like it belongs on a postcard, with a nest of houses wedged between a fairytale castle and the winding River Arun.

The ideal time to go is during their August festival, when the locals poor sackloads of rubber duckies into the river and bet on the winning duck.

The rest of the year, you can easily fill a day with a jaunt by the river, a pub lunch and potter around its fairly extravagant castle. Castle entrance tickets are valid for a whole year, which is a winner.

5. Herstmonceaux

• Getting there by car: 50 minutes, on the A27 and rural roads

Sure, you’ve looked at the stars, but have you really seen them? This rural Sussex observatory is hidden away in a tiny hamlet and has a ginormous telescope for stargazers to take in the Dark Skies. Light pollution is other people’s problem.

They also run astronomy open days and evening courses and have the kind of hands-on science equipment for sticky fingered kids.

The downside to being so countrified means of course you can really only get there by car, but there’s parking and a cluster of proper pubs in the area.

6. Hastings

• Getting there by car: one hour
• Getting there by train: one hour, direct

Try a slice of seaside and a whole lot of history at this out-of-the-norm town, an hour’s drive away from base.

It’s got pebbled beaches, cute fishing boats and lots to do.

You’ll come for the unique fishing huts and the nostalgic cliff railway, stay for the shops and clifftop views.

Find the perfect one day itinerary here .

7. West Wittering

Camber Sands might be the more famous choice, but for me this is the choice for true beach fans.

West Wittering is a spot of lovely sandy beach just outside Chichester, surrounded by a small village. If you like your beaches without a city, this is for you.

8. Portsmouth

• Getting there by car: an hour
• Getting there by train: 1 hour 20, direct

Alive with shabby chic cafes, narrow streets and a whimsical kite festival in the summer, this city is over the border in Hampshire and is the home of the British Navy.

The historic dockyard is the place to have nosey, where you can see the ancient relic of the Mary Rose or get aboard the HMS Victory.

9. Bournemouth

• Getting there by car: 2-2.5 hours

Love Brighton’s quirky gay scene but miss a place where you can use a bucket and spade? You’re not alone, a lot of people think it’d be just perfect to have an actual sandy beach here, instead of the pebble beaches the city is known for.

Luckily, Bournemouth has seven miles of proper sand and it’s about two hours away along the coastline, in Dorset.

Yup, it’s just about in reach for a day in the sun. And yes, Britain does have sun!

It’s a tourist option in its own right, acting as a younger brother to Brighton with its own pier, seafront and pretty gardens.

• Getting there by car: impossible! London is legendary for its traffic.
• Getting there by train: 1-1.5 hours direct depending on train speed

The big daddy of the list.

This trip is so famous, it’s a cliche.  Londoners spend so much time by the seaside at the weekend that they’ve earnt their own nickname – Down From Londoners – or DFLs.

Get in on the hype, grab a train and take on the capital.

A few more Brighton day out ideas

Why not spend the day closer to home in Brighton’s more genteel sister, Hove, where I’ve got a full list of the best things to do .

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9 Great Day Trips to Take from Brighton

Oh, we do love to be beside the seaside – but inland and down the coast from Brighton holds plenty of appeal for pleasure-seekers too. With staggering geographical diversity comes a landscape full of surprises, inviting the greatest creative minds to capture its essence. There are more unique day trips here than could fit in an entire year – but here’s our pick for the most stunning views and cultural highs from Sussex to Kent to Hampshire.

South downs national park.

The South Downs National Park spans the coastal counties of Hampshire in the west to East Sussex and is one of the most recently designated national parks. It has always been an adventurists’ mecca, however — mountain bikers grind the hills alongside ramblers touring the South Downs Way in the company of horseback riders. At the peak of its charms sits Ditchling Beacon, a punishing climb for cyclists, but with a view over the Sussex countryside that makes every switchback worth the sweat. A few miles further to the east towards Lewes, there’s a bird’s-eye view of the home of the Brighton and Hove Albion, American Express Stadium . To the west is Devil’s Dyke, containing the UK’s largest dry valley and resplendent vistas. Every photo along the Downs’ 3000 acres is postcard-worthy.

1. Arundel Castle

Settled into the embrace of the South Downs, Arundel, a bucolic market town, is a destination worth exploring. Tuck into a cream tea at Berties of Arundel before a leisurely tour of the magnificent medieval Arundel castle; historical reenactments and open-air stagings are popular here, painted upon a very special backdrop.

Arundel, West Sussex

Arundel | © Herry Lawford/Flickr

3. Rye and Camber Sands

On the fringe of East Sussex lies the village of Rye and, to the south, Camber Sands – the only sand dunes in the county. Quintessentially quaint, Rye’s pretty cobbled rows and timber-framed homes belie a chequered past of smuggling and port invasions, but its light has attracted artists like Paul Nash and Edward Burra, who called Rye home. Just beyond the traditional links at Rye Golf Club are the ever-shifting Camber Sands, a Site of Nature Conservation Importance.

Rye, East Sussex

Mermaid Street, Rye | © VSjax/Flickr

4. Hever Castle

Because a day without a glimpse at a castle is no day at all, Hever Castle flaunts as much romanticism and intrigue as its former occupant, Anne Boleyn. With great defences and a double moat, it was no doubt intended to guard a great family – as it did with the Boleyns throughout the 15th and 16th centuries. Later passing into the hands of Anne of Cleves, the castle fell into disrepair. William Waldorf Astor, a wealthy American, acquired the property at the turn of the 20th century and is responsible for the estate’s Tudor Village and extensive gardens.

Hever Castle, Kent

Hever Castle | © Steve Slater/Flickr

Given its proximity to the capital, Brighton is home to one of the largest commuter populations in the country. Just a short ride — around an hour — connects two cities that rarely sleep. For an experience that only London can offer, check out a matinée on the West End before deciphering the Rosetta Stone at the British Museum. More than a day is needed, but it’s always best to leave wanting more.

5. The Seven Sisters

Natural Feature

The National Trust in Sussex & Kent

Any day trip would be deficient without at least several stops at some of the National Trust ’s amazing portfolio of properties. In West Sussex, spend some time at Petworth House and Gallery – home to the Trust’s largest collection of pictures – including pieces by Turner and Blake. In East Sussex, Rudyard Kipling’s preserved home, Bateman’s, sits some 20 miles east of Virginia Woolf’s Monk’s House. If there’s time to spare, larger estates like Wakefield Place and Sheffield Park Garden are not to be missed.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Brighton

Day trips from brighton.

• Brighton to Alfriston
• Brighton to Oxford
• Brighton to Haywards Heath
• Brighton to Burgess Hill
• Brighton to Bath
• Brighton to Isle of Wight
• Brighton to Seaford
• Brighton to Chertsey
• Brighton to Cambridge
• Brighton to Canterbury
• Brighton to Stratford-upon-Avon
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. South Downs and Seven Sisters Full Day Experience from Brighton

2. Isle of Wight - Day Tour from Brighton

3. Stonehenge and Bath - Day Tour from Brighton

4. Vineyard & Cheesemaker Bus Tour of Sussex

5. Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour on Iconic Vintage London Bus

6. Cambridge and Greenwich - Day Tour from Brighton

7. Thorpe Park - return transfer and day pass from Brighton

8. Stratford-upon-Avon and the Cotswolds - Day Tour from Brighton

9. Leeds Castle and Canterbury - Day Tour from Brighton

10. Oxford, Windsor and Eton - Day Tour from Brighton

11. Fully Guided History Tour of The City of Brighton

12. From London 10-hour Customize Tour with Private Car

13. Full-Day Private Tour of Brighton

14. Full-Day Private Tour of Brighton

15. Brighton and White Cliffs private tour from London

16. Private Chauffeured Day Trip to Brighton Pier from London in a Luxury Minivan

17. Private Tour of Seven Sisters White Cliffs and South Downs

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London

Small-Group Cotswolds Tour (From London)

Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath with Pub Lunch in Lacock

Harry Potter Tour of Warner Bros. Studio with Luxury Transport from London

Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, and Oxford Day Trip from London

Oxford and Traditional Cotswolds Villages Small-Group Day Tour from London

Stonehenge and Bath Tour from London

Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury Day Trip from London with Guided Cathedral Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Harry Potter Tour with Superior Transport from London

Stonehenge Half-Day Tour from London with Admission

Cotswolds Small Group Tour from London

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Oxford Day Trip

Inner Circle Access of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock Day Tour from London

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• Full-Day Small-Group White Cliffs of Sussex Tour from London
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How To Spend An Awesome Day In Brighton: One Day Itinerary

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Wondering how to spend an awesome day in Brighton ? This one-day itinerary will help you make the most of it!

Oh Brighton, you beautiful little seaside city. Less than an hour from London by train, Brighton is one of the most popular day trips in the UK. And that’s no surprise! It’s a quirky, creative town with a beach, making it the perfect getaway from the hectic life in the capital city. 

While you could easily spend a week in Brighton and enjoy some relaxing time on the beach, going on a day trip is just as perfect. You’ll be able to visit some of the main highlights and still have enough time to eat some fresh fish and chips near the beach. I’ve put this itinerary together for my own day in Brighton, so you don’t have to worry about what to do.

Let’s take a look!

How To Spend A Day In Brighton

Since taking a day trip to Brighton is such a great idea (especially if you’re in London), I’ve put together this one day Brighton itinerary to help. It includes all the main highlights in an efficient way so you can make the most of your time in this lovely seaside city.

Visit The Brighton Royal Pavilion

Our first stop when spending the day in Brighton is one of the city’s crown jewels: the Royal Pavilion. This Indian-styled palace seems completely out of place in Britain, something I definitely didn’t expect to find here! But it’s beautiful, and a must-see when in Brighton.

The Royal Pavilion was built over 200 years ago , as ordered by King George IV (then the Prince of Wales). Even though he never visited India, he was intrigued by the style. That’s why his beach residence turned out to look like this. 

It’s not all Indian-styled though. The interior has more Chinese influence. 

In the first World War, the building served as a hospital for Indian soldiers. And today, it’s one of the most visited tourist attractions of Brighton.

While the interior is very impressive, the Royal Gardens are equally as nice. In the 80s/90s, they were put back into the original design. Make sure to free up around two hours for your visit.

Walk Across The Brighton Pier

If you’ve ever come across photos of Brighton, chances are you are already familiar with the famous Pier. The Victorian pier has been part of the city since 1899 and is filled with shops, arcades, and eateries (fresh fish and chips anybody?). It’s probably the best place to enjoy a view of the beach too!

See Brighton From Above In The British Airways i360

You can find this iconic viewing tower a little further down the beach from the pier. The British Airways i360 stands 138 meters tall and gives you stunning panoramic views of the beach and Brighton. There’s even a bar onboard 😉 You can pre-book tickets to ensure you’ve got a spot – but you may want to make sure it’s a bright day when you visit. It’s much better when the weather works in your favour.

Walk Down The Beachfront Promenade & See Brighton’s Beach

Brighton’s beach is not made out of sand, but pebbles. Coming from the Netherlands, where all beaches are sandy, it was quite a surprise! However, it still makes for a good spot to sunbathe if the weather allows it. 

But since we’re only spending one day in Brighton, you may want to skip the sunbathing and walk the beachfront promenade instead. Swirling through the pebbles, the four-mile-long promenade gives you the perfect opportunity for a lovely walk along the beach, with tons of little shops on the side. 

What stood out to me most about Brighton is how close the beach is to the city centre. I think that’s one of the things people love about this city so much.

Photograph The Colourful Hove Beach Huts

Ever seen pictures of the colourful beach houses in Brighton?

They’re technically not in Brighton but in Hove. But luckily, the promenade stretches all the way to Hove. From Brighton Pier, it’s just over a mile. Especially if the weather is nice, it makes for a lovely walk. If you decide to also add the i360 to your itinerary, from there it’s only a 15-minute walk.

Shop Until You Drop In The Lanes

Back to Brighton to explore the famous Lanes. This network of streets is located in the historic quarter of the city, and it’s the perfect place to shop. Filled with independent boutiques and shops, it’s an absolute must-visit when spending time in Brighton.

You can find the coolest items here. From antiques and vintage clothing to record stores and eateries. The perfect spot for a quick coffee for your afternoon caffeine fix 😉

Spot The Coolest Street Art

While this isn’t really a location or a specific spot in the city, it still deserves a mention in this post. Brighton is a very creative city, and that’s seen back in its street art. The city is filled with the most beautiful murals and colourful graffiti. Especially near the North Laine (not the Lanes, this is a different area), you can find a ton of cool graffiti artwork.

Eat Fresh Fish & Chips Near The Beach

What’s a visit to one of the UK’s best seaside towns without having some fresh fish and chips, am I right? As mentioned earlier, you can get some delicious fish and chips on Brighton Pier – I can’t think of a better place to enjoy such a traditional dish, near the sea! Beware of the seagulls though 😉 They also love some of that fish!

Best Times To Visit Brighton

Being a seaside town, Brighton is best enjoyed with the sun out. But since it’s still England, you can never be 100% sure you’re avoiding the rain 😉 Still, the best months to visit Brighton are between May and September . The temperature is better and there is less chance of rain. Keep in mind that July and August are peak tourist months in Brighton, so it can get very busy.

How To Get To Brighton

Brighton is the perfect day trip from London because it takes under an hour to get there by train. It’s no surprise that Brighton welcomes 9.5 million day trip visitors every year (!!!). 

By plane: The easiest way to reach Brighton by plane is to fly to London and take the train from there. 

By train: As mentioned previously, taking the train to Brighton is the easiest way to go for a day trip. It’s fast and you can reach it from London in under an hour. 

If you’re coming from other cities in the UK, you can also take the train. But make sure to check how long it takes, because it may be worth booking a weekend in Brighton rather than a day. For example, it takes over four hours!

By bus: Another, more budget-friendly option, is taking the bus. From London, you can get a coach ticket for as little as £9 and it will roughly take an hour and a half. Once again, from other cities in the UK, the trip could be a little too long to only spend a day in Brighton, so you may want to extend your stay.

Add More Cities To Your UK Itinerary

Spending a day in Brighton is fantastic, but why not add some more cities to your itinerary? There are so many great UK city breaks available, so why not spend a weekend in Bath or two days in Bristol ?

If you want to come up north, I highly recommend visiting Manchester for the weekend or explore York in two days .

Conclusion – How To Spend A Lovely Day In Brighton

Taking a day trip to Brighton from London is never a bad idea! But even if you decide to stay for a weekend because you’re coming from further away, this gorgeous city won’t disappoint. 

I hope this Brighton itinerary has helped you plan your own trip or at least given you some ideas on what to do in Brighton. I definitely cannot wait to return!

What can you do in Brighton for free?

Visiting Brighton doesn’t have to be expensive. There are a lot of free things to do , including the Brighton Pier, relaxing on the beach, Brighton’s fishing museum, and the Brighton Marina.

How many days do you need in Brighton?

While spending a day in Brighton gives you enough time to see all the highlights, I recommend going for two or three days. This way, you can visit all the sights but also have some time to enjoy the beach.

How do I spend the day in Brighton?

In the morning, visit the Brighton Royal Pavilion and Brighton Pier. After that, enjoy a panoramic view of the city in the BA i360, walk the promenade towards the Hove beach huts. End your afternoon by shopping in the Lanes, and finish the day with some fresh fish and chips near the water. For more information, you can check out my Brighton day trip itinerary in the article above.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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1 Day In Brighton: 15 Things To Do On A Brighton Day Trip (2024)

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I recently spent a day in Brighton and I’m raving about it. Not only is there a beach, but the city is colourful, quirky and friendly with a fantastic eating scene. It’s easy to take a day trip to Brighton from London as well as several other UK cities. I’d been to Brighton a couple of times before but not in the last few years (given my recent globe-trotting I’ve not exactly been anywhere in the UK in a couple of years). I was expecting street art , the beach and food & drink from my Brighton day trip – and that’s what I got plus a bit more! After this trip, it’s safe to say Brighton is one of my favourite places in Southern England , apart from of course Bristol , Bath and my hometown of Oxford ! If you’re looking for UK day trips , read about my day trips to Bath , Oxford , Cardiff and Liverpool. If it’s the beach you’re craving, consider a London to Margate day trip . I also have a post on the top 10 London to the Cotswolds 1 day trips .

BRIGHTON QUICK LINES Accommodation: Booking.com  / Hostelworld.com Copy of Lonely Planet England Activities: GetYourGuide Getting there: Trainline / Busbud Must read: Complete guide to UK travel on a budget

Brighton day trip from London by train

I use Trainline for booking train tickets in the UK. You can compare prices and times throughout the day to get the best deal, plus the website shows live departure times which is helpful when travelling. Tickets from London to Brighton start at £14.50 but ones at decent times usually cost £21.50.

When taking a day trip to Brighton from London, there are several London stations you can depart from. For a direct journey of just 1 hour with no changes, your best bet is catching:

• A Great Northern or Thameslink train from London Blackfriars
• A Southern Railway or Gatwick Express from London Victoria
• A Great Northern, Southern Railway or Thameslink train from London Bridge .

Regardless of the service, use Trainline to book tickets. Consider getting a Railcard if you’re aged 30 or under. After a few uses, you make back the cost of the card and then some.

Search London to Brighton trains .

Day trip to Brighton from London by bus

If you just have one day in Brighton, taking the train is much quicker meaning you have more time in Brighton. However if you’re short of cash, it’s worth noting that Brighton is well connected to London and other UK cities by bus. Journeys to Brighton from London cost just £5 and take 2 hours 30 minutes from London Victoria.

Search London to Brighton buses .

How to spend one day in Brighton – quick itinerary

10am: Arrive in Brighton and head for brunch (see my top picks below) 11am: Wander Brighton Pier and relax on Brighton Beach 12pm: Visit the Royal Pavilion 2pm: Browse shops on North Laine 4pm: Stroll the Promenade and spot other Brighton sights 5pm: Pass Brunswick Square and reach Hove Beach Huts 6pm: Eat dinner in Hove Finish your day out in Brighton & head back home!

How to get around during a day in Brighton

I explored Brighton on foot which is easy to do. You can see most of Brighton in a day without a car or public transport and even make it down to Hove, the other part of the city that is Brighton & Hove. Sightseeing bus: If you’re not much of a walker or prefer the novelty of exploring from the upper deck of a big red bus, book a hop-on-hop-off bus for £17. By bike: Another fun way to see Brighton (and get around a bit quicker) is a Brighton bike tour led by local guides. This will take you from Royal Pavilion to Brunswick Square (opposite ends of the city) in just 2.5 hours meaning you have more time later to relax on the beach and shop at the Lanes.

Best things to do during 1 day in Brighton day trip

Now for the good bit. Let’s run through everything to do during a Brighton day trip including visiting costs and info, plus where to eat and other Brighton travel tips. Here’s how to see Brighton in a day…

1. Begin with brunch

Depending what time you begin your Brighton day trip from London, you may wish to begin with a hearty feed. If you didn’t guess from my many food blogs, feeding myself heartily is the joy of my life! Billie’s Cafe : There are plenty of cafes in Brighton but I would highly recommend Billie’s Cafe on Hampton Place. With the blue checkered tablecloths and generous mugs of builders tea, Billie’s has an old-school vibe that you won’t find in some of the gentrified Brighton restaurants. I had salmon & avo but apparently the star dish is the farmhouse stack with potatoes, sausages, eggs, cheese and beans.

Joe’s Cafe : Another fantastic option for brunch lovers in Brighton is Joe’s. This cosy independent gets busy on a weekend but it’s well worth the queue. The best dish is Lucie’s healthy breakfast with smoked salmon, poached eggs, mushrooms and avocado.

2. Take a walking tour

Want to learn Brighton’s stories from a local? Taking a walking tour is one of my favourite ways to get orientated in a new city. This TripAdvisor award-winning Brighton story walking tour (£17) takes 90 minutes and will bring you up to speed on Brighton’s history and best neighbourhoods.

3. Tour the street art

After finding street art in Bristol , Camden and Shoreditch lately, I’m a huge fan. Set against some of the elaborate townhouses, the Brighton street art is quite the contrast. Lart, much of it tells a story. One urban mural above encourages young women to vote. If you just have one day in Brighton, this is a fun and free activity that will introduce you to Brighton’s quirky side. Mini Brighton street art tour:

• Head past the train station onto Trafalgar Street where the street art begins
• Turn into Trafalgar Lane (where 90% of the above photos were taken)
• Walk along Gloucester Street
• Connect to Gloucester Passage and Kensington Street.

More street art locations in Brighton: Seek out the Astoria building on London Road where there’s a recreation of Banksy’s Kissing Policemen. Find more art on Orange Row off North Road, and on turn-off streets from North Laine.

4. Brighton Palace Pier

It wouldn’t be a Brighton day trip without eating ice cream and checking out the arcades at Brighton Palace Pier. There are also fair rides if that’s your cup of tea but I’m a 27-year-old with less capacity for adrenaline than a toddler so I stuck to my Mr Whippy and chocolate flake! Having survived two wars, Brighton Palace Pier is a Grade 2* listed building with all the charm of yesteryear. But following some big refurbishments, it’s now firmly in the modern day with free Wi-Fi so you can ‘gram your Brighton day trip! Brighton Pier is free to visit but you can purchase a wristband if you’ll be going on the rides. Buying one online in advance saves you 25%. Wristbands are priced differently for weekdays and weekends so make sure to buy the right one.

5. Relax on Brighton beach

I’m so envious of Brighton locals for having a beach on their doorstep (even if it’s stony). If you have time towards the end of the day, return to Brighton Beach and grab yourself a couple of beers (and a blanket to sit on if possible!). This is the perfect way to end a Brighton day trip from London if you’re taking the train and don’t need to drive.

6. Try some classic English foods

What better way to enjoy the British seaside than with ice cream? If there is one, I’m yet to hear about it. A few English seaside foods to try include:

• Mr Whippy ice cream and flake
• Fish and chips (do not take your eyes off them for a second or an evil seagull will steal your chips!)
• A stick of rock (to take home as a souvenir or gift)
• Candy floss!

7. British Airways i360 

Near the remains of the old West Pier is this brand-spanking-new (well, newish – it was built in 2016) addition to the seafront. While some locals were initially iffy about it, you can’t deny it’s a fantastic attraction for tourists wanting a bird’s eye view of the coast. From the glass viewing pod at the top, you can see 360-degree views of Brighton, the English Channel and South Downs. Book a British Airways i360 Ticket for £20 or upgrade to a cream tea experience !

8. The Royal Pavilion

If you’re trying to see Brighton in a day, you can’t squeeze in everything… But I’d recommend prioritising the Royal Pavilion ! This is one of the most impressive buildings in Brighton with a colourful history to boot. King George IV built the Royal Pavilion as a seaside pleasure palace, taking inspiration from India and China. Having been to India a couple of times now, I could appreciate the Indian influence. It’s sometimes called the ‘Taj Mahal of Brighton!’ Inside, there are some incredible rooms to peruse including the Banqueting Room, the Music Room, the Saloon and the Royal Bedrooms. Entrance fees: £18 for adults, £11 for children (under 18). For a free option, snap it from outside and relax in the Pavilion Gardens. Opening times: 9.30am-5.45pm (last admission at 5pm). Address: 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE.

9. Shopping in the Brighton Lanes

Right in the heart of Brighton, the Lanes are where to pick up souvenirs during 1 day in Brighton. It’s worth visiting even if you’re not much of a shopper; there are also cafes, pubs and theatres. The spirit of boho, alternative Brighton is best discovered in this part of town. There are two main areas: South Lanes: Here you’ll find lots of cafes, jewellery shops and gift shops. North Laine: My personal favourite! This is the place to be for trinkets, antiques and retro fashion. There are more than 400 independent shops and cafes in this area so I was more than happy to ditch the Starbucks and get stuck in. Food & drink in the Lanes: I visited on a beautiful sunny day so settled myself outside Kooks Restaurant  for a G&T and snacks whilst I read my book and people-watched. If you visit at lunchtime, check out Curry Leaf Cafe for casual Indian food or Lost in the Lanes for hip, wholesome lunch and brunch. Browse the shops in this A-Z to the Lanes .

10. Wander the promenade

After visiting Brighton Beach and Brighton Pier, take a stroll along the promenade. Here you’ll spot some other famous features of Brighton. You can walk all the way to Hove, spotting colourful beach huts and finishing your Brighton day trip with a tasty dinner in Hove. Some sights to see along Brighton’s seafront promenade include:

• The skeleton of West Pier (sandy lost to a fire)
• Brighton Beach Bandstand.

After walking past Brighton Beach Bandstand, you’re just a few moments from…

11. Brunswick Square

It may not be the most common thing to do during a Brighton day trip but I’m always amazed by this part of town. Go and ponder how the other half live at this millionaire square! Built in the 1820s, Brunswick Square was (unsurprisingly) created for the upper classes who were expected to behave accordingly while living in them. While the classes may not be as divided these days, it’s still the fanciest part of town. After having a nosy around, keep walking towards Hove. These two parts of the city are close enough together that you can see Brighton in a day and tag on Hove, too.

12. Hove Beach Huts

I’m no minimalist; I’m obsessed with anything bright and colourful so I was in heaven in Hove, 10 minutes’ walk down the road from Brighton. There’s not much to say about the Hove Beach Huts (apart from some sell for up to £14,000!) but they’re worth checking out as an Instagrammable destination in Brighton !

13. Eat dinner at Fatto Amano

After walking to Hove to check out Hove Beach Huts, I stopped for dinner. If you have just one day in Brighton and limited stomach room, save yourself for pizza at Fatto Amano ! This pizzeria is inspired by Naples and exclusive to Brighton.  The freshly-cooked woodfire pizzas cost between £8.50-£15, perfect if you’re travelling on a budget . If you don’t head all the way to Hove, there’s a branch in the Lanes, too. Check out all the best places to eat in Hove .

14. Take a food tour

Taking food tours is one of my favourite things to do in new cities. I’ve taken them in Mexico, Vietnam, South Africa and now even back home in the UK! I like Viator for food experiences, like this secret doughnut tour !

15. Take a self-guided treasure hunt

For a final fun thing to do during a day trip to Brighton, why not take a scavenger hunt? I love how many of these are popping up in cities all over the world. You use your mobile phone to unlock clues and learn about the city. Being outdoors, they’re great for travel in 2021. Check out this Brighton treasure hunt with Viator (£25) .

Where to stay after a day in Brighton

If you choose to stay over in Brighton, use Booking.com for hotels and self-catering apartments and Hostelworld.com for hostels.

Best budget accommodation – Selina Brighton . The Selina chain is a great option all around the world so you can expect top quality standards. This venue is perfectly placed on Brighton Promenade with rooms from £50. More budget hotels – Britannia Study Hotel / The Lanes Hotel . Splash out hotel – Malmaison Brighton .

Thanks for reading my Brighton day trip itinerary!

I hope you have a wonderful time exploring this city. Whether you’re taking a Brighton day trip from London or any other UK city, there’s loads to do.

Check out some of my other England posts:

• My London archives
• How to spend a weekend in Oxford
• How to spend a weekend in Bristol
• The Manchester weekend guide
• The perfect weekend in Dorset
• How to spend a weekend in Norfolk
• Things to do in Liverpool in winter
• How to spend 2 days in the Lake District
• The ultimate Bath day trip from London
• And my guide to backpacking the UK

Visiting the UK? Guidebooks – LP always get my seal of approval. Use the latest copy of Lonely Planet England . Getting there & around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Car hire – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in the UK (and all around the world). For UK trains , I use Trainline . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses , I use Busbud . It’s the only site that compares UK coaches and buses. Find London to Manchester journeys for £1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse UK tours and activities on GetYourGuide . For food tours pairing travellers with passionate local chefs and foodies, check out EatWith . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

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See you next time for more adventures,

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Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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A Day Trip To Brighton: Your Ultimate Guide

Growing up I regularly visited my Grandparents on the South Coast of England, and have many fond memories of its pebbled beaches and hilly terrain. However, despite being well aware of the charm of this region, it’s taken me till now to visit its most well-known town: Brighton.

The town/city was first made popular by King George IV in the late 1700s, as his physician advised him to visit Brighton to benefit from the ‘therapeutic properties of the sea air’. George’s presence quickly turned the quiet seaside town into a popular and fashionable escape from London, and to this day a day trip to Brighton remains a firm favourite amongst visitors to the capital.

In this way, as I live so near to London (and consequently Brighton) I decided that it was well time I revisited the South Coast and spent a sunny day in Brighton…

A Day Trip To Brighton: How To Get There –

The first important element of a Brighton day trip is actually getting there. If you’re going from London to Brighton train is by far the easiest way to reach the seaside as the train connections between the two cities are excellent. You can either get the Gatwick Express train from Victoria (which runs every hour) or you can get an equally as frequent train from St Pancras International,  although this does tend to be a little slower.

More than this, while the train is by far the most convenient way to travel to Brighton, it is also possible to drive, as the town has several centrally located car parks, which you can view here.

One Day In Brighton: Where to Eat – 

My mum accompanied me on my day trip to Brighton and since we arrived at around midday our first port of call was lunch! Luckily for us, Brighton has a fantastic food scene…

We opted for a touch of ‘fine dining’ at the beautiful Ivy in the Lanes. This restaurant was recently renovated from Brighton’s old Post Office, and it’s now filled with quirky art, plenty of greenery and stunning gold accents.

The interior alone warrants a visit, but the food is also amazing! It’s most well known for its impressive Brunch (which is served every day till 11:30am) but we found that the lunch menu was equally as delicious!

More than this, while the Ivy in the Lanes exudes luxury and sophistication, it’s actually pretty affordable, with main dishes averaging around £14 (which is similar to most restaurants in the UK).

Other top spots in Brighton include Riddle and Finns , which is perfect for seafood lovers, and Food For Friends , which has been voted one of the best vegetarian restaurants in the country!

Further Brighton also has a fantastic range of more casual dining options. For example, you can always grab Fish and Chips on the beach or pop into one of its many cafes…

Interested in more day trip ideas from London? Why not consider visiting Cambridge or the Royal town of Windsor ?

Things To Do On A Day Trip To Brighton – 

Brighton is rather unique, as it’s technically a city but has no cathedral, and it’s gritty and historic, yet modern and bursting with colour. What’s more, its status as the Gay capital of the UK means its nightlife is electric, but by day the beachfront is a peaceful haven for families.

As a result of this, it’s easy to see why Brighton is so popular with such a wide array of people: there’s simply something to do that suits everyone! On our own day trip to Brighton, my mum and I were able to sample the best of these different aspects of the city by:

Shopping in the Lanes –

One of the best things to do in Brighton is to shop in its unique Lanes, which are an intricate network of charming narrow alleyways filled with independent shops, pubs and cafes close to the seafront.

So, after Lunch, we decided to explore the Lanes and I have to say that I fell in love with the unique charm and character of this labyrinth of shops. We especially enjoyed window shopping in the Jewellery sector, because a girl can always dream of diamonds. 😉

As well as The Lanes, we also walked back up towards the train station to explore North Laine (located on Kensington Gardens road). This is home to all things vintage and ‘hippy’ and it’s another great shopping experience to have in Brighton.

Visiting The Royal Pavilion –

The next stop on our one day in Brighton itinerary was the Royal Pavilion (the summer residence of the previously mentioned King George IV).  Located a short walk from the lanes, the Royal Pavilion was originally a small lodging house which was transformed into a magnificent oriental palace in 1815 by the architect John Nash.

The beautiful domes, minarets and pinnacles on the exterior of the Pavilion, mean the building has been called the Taj Mahal of England by some. While this statement may be a little bold, I definitely think that the exterior of the Pavilion is exquisite. We found that the best way to appreciate the building was simply by walking through the Pavilion gardens, which are free to visit and beautifully maintained.

We also decided to take the time to tour the inside of the Pavilion, and this was definitely a great decision as the grandeur and opulence is taken to another level inside. With rooms that take inspiration from Chinese and Egyptian architecture, over the top decoration reigns supreme in this palace, and it’s quite unlike any other royal residence in England.

As a result of this, I’d say that visiting the Royal Pavilion is probably at the top of my things to do in Brighton suggestion list, it’s simply too grand and crazy to miss!

TOP TIP: Tickets for the Royal Pavilion cost £15 for adults and £10 for kids, but you can save 10% by booking online in advance.

Exploring the Brighton Palace Pier – 

While the Royal Pavilion is indeed spectacular, you can’t go to Brighton and not visit its famous pier. So, after taking our time to tour the Pavilion, we wandered the 2 minutes or so down to the beachfront to explore this wonderful British attraction.

1760ft long, the pier opened in 1899 and it features lots of fun things to do. For example, you can visit one of two classic arcades, or the small amusement park at the end of the pier, where some rides take you high above the sea.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxing pier experience, you can visit one of its many food stalls which serve anything from Fish and Chips to Ice Cream and freshly made Doughnuts.

Personally, I found the views back along the coast to be the best part of the Pier, as on a sunny day you can see for miles!

Relaxing on the Beach – 

After taking in the sights and smells of the Pier we made our way down to the beach, which features two promenades, one at street level and one actually on the beach. We chose to wander down the latter of the two as the old fishermen’s huts that back onto it have been converted into quirky shops and cafes that are fun to explore.

Further, as we were very lucky with the weather on our day trip to Brighton, we also ventured onto the pebbles and enjoyed a cocktail overlooking the sea. The beach is such a huge part of the charm of Brighton, that even if you visit in winter taking a stroll along it has to be one of the top things to do in the city.

More Things to do during a day trip to Brighton – 

After relaxing on the beach my mum and I decided to head to the station and take the train back from Brighton to London. While we had a wonderful day and I feel like we enjoyed most of the cities highlights, there are some other attractions that you might want to consider including in your own Brighton day trip itinerary:

The British Airways i360 Tower – 

The British Airways i360 is the worlds tallest moving observation tower. Standing at 162m and located on the former site of Brighton’s West Pier, which sadly burnt down in 2003, the tower provides breathtaking views over Brighton and wider East Sussex. On a clear day, it’s even said that you can see as far as France!

TOP TOP: The tower is cheaper if you book a pre-selected time online (£14.85). You can also purchase a ticket at the tower itself, but note that it only ‘goes up’ every half an hour.

Sea Life Brighton Aquarium – 

For some, a day in Brighton is not complete without a visit to Brighton’s Aquarium , which is actually the oldest operating aquarium in the world as it was built in 1872. Not only does the aquarium feature dazzling sea life, but the original Victorian architecture is also quite stunning.

Therefore, overall a visit to the Aquarium is another of the top things to do in Brighton.

So that completes my ultimate guide to a day trip to Brighton. However, while clearly a great city to visit for a day, I’d suggest you also consider spending a weekend in Brighton. This way you could experience the cities famous nightlife, or explore the beautiful nearby South Downs. None the less, if you just suddenly get an urge to spend a sunny day by the sea (like I did), then Brighton is surely the place to go!

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10 Things To Do On A Brighton Day Trip from London By Train!

Categories England , London , U.K

Brighton is such a cool place to visit and thanks to its location and good train links, a Brighton day trip from London is very easy, and who wouldn’t want to get out of the big smoke for one day and go to the beach!

Brighton is very walkable and therefore you can do all the best things to do in Brighton on a Brighton day trip and especially on a London to Brighton Day Trip.

We know that the weather isn’t always good and you may think you can only visit Brighton on a sunny day but you can visit Brighton from London all year round, so in this Brighton travel guide, let me show you how!

Brighton Day Trip From London!

How to get to Brighton from London!

For your Day Trip to Brighton from London, the best way to get to Brighton from London is by train!

London to Brighton by Train

On my recent day trip to Brighton, I took the London Thameslink as it was closer to me, it goes through many central London stations like St Pancras, Farringdon, Blackfriars and London Bridge directly into Brighton Train Station.

Alternatively, you can take a Southern Railway Train from London Victoria .

To get the cheapest London to Brighton train tickets , book a return ticket, book your tickets a few weeks in advance if possible or as far out as you can, avoid commuting times if going on a weekday!

Things To Do in Brighton!

The problem of course with day trips in the UK is the weather! There are plenty of things to do in Brighton and I have noted the top things to do in Brighton below in this Brighton travel blog.

Keeping the British weather in mind, I have given you ideas of things that will be good things to do in Brighton on a rainy day  as good things to do in Brighton in the summer .

This means that if you already had your Brighton day trip from London booked it and it turns out to be wet weather, you can still enjoy your Brighton day trip!

1. Brighton Pier

You can't do a Brighton day trip and not walk along Brighton Pier!

Brighton Pier is a pretty typical British Seaside pier, it's full of stalls selling ice creams, doughnuts and candy floss perfect for your London to Brighton day trip.

There are fairground rides at the end for the brave people amongst us, it has deck chairs on it to enjoy the views from, and on that point, it does have awesome views of the beach, the i360, and even some white coastal cliffs (more on those later). Brighton Pier even has some arcade games inside the Palace of Fun.

If it ends up raining on your trip to Brighton day trip from London, you could easily pass an hour playing old-school seaside arcade games inside the arcade.

2. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach isn't the best beach in the UK and a lot of non-British people don't like it because it's not sand!

However it is a huge beach and the best thing about it, in my opinion, is that it has a huge promenade that goes all the way to the nearby town of Hove.

It also has a promenade walkway right on the beach and if you get on it by the pier it takes you past so many bars, pubs, shops, restaurants and cafes that are all based underneath the main, top promenade.

On a nice day, this area is full of people sitting outside enjoying their food and drink in the sunshine. I really recommend doing this walk on your Brighton Day Trip from London.

If the weathers nice you can sunbathe on the beach and get in the ocean if you're brave enough! If the weather isn't good you can walk alongside the beach and take in the views. Just remember to wear warm clothes in the winter as the sea breeze is cold!

The fact that you can go to the beach within the city of Brighton is a big reason as to why it's often named as one of the best cities in England  to visit!

3. Hove Beach Huts

You've probably seen photos of colourful beach huts in Brighton, these are well worth a visit if you are wondering what to do in Brighton especially if you've never seen any before or you just want a nice photo.

If you are thinking 'where are the colourful huts in Brighton?' The colourful beach huts are in fact in Hove and not Brighton.

However, Hove is just a 20-30 minute and 2km walk down the promenade from the centre of Brighton. When you get to them, you'll know! They can't be missed.

Another advantage of walking down to Hove is that the beach is a lot less busy there so if you did want to lie on the beach for a while on your day trip to Brighton from London and feel like it's too busy by the pier then head towards Hove!

4. Brighton Bike Tour

For activities in Brighton, something a bit different and for a unique way to see Brighton is taking a Bike Tour.

These bike tours of Brighton take you to all the popular places in Brighton like  North Laines, the Royal Pavilion, the Beachfront and the pier. Depending on the tour they also take you to some unique places in Brighton like the Fishing Quarter, Brunswick Square and Preston Manor .

Not only is a bike tour a quick and easy way to see the city, especially if it's cold and you don't fancy walking, but having a tour guide will give you a much better understanding of the City, its history, its architecture and some interesting facts!

I'd recommend booking a tour in advance for your Brighton Day Trip from London and I recommend checking out the tours that Get Your Guide offer as they offer a really high quality of service, the tours they offer are:

5. Brighton i360

The i360 is a fairly quite a new addition to Brighton's skyline and it has been a pretty big hit. It gives incredible view s over the ocean, the coastline, the countryside and of course, Brighton and Hove.

I would recommend booking a ticket in advance here for £16.50 pp so you can enjoy a smooth ride up 138 meters in a futuristic glass viewing pod while on your Brighton day trip!

6. Brighton Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion, also known as Brighton Pavilion is a must-visit place on your Brighton day trip from London because it's totally unique and not what you expect to see in Brighton.

The building is incredibly beautiful, it was first built in 1787 but it was built in three stages as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales. It's really nice to see it from the outside and if it's nice weather there's lots of greenery around it and people are always lying on the grass as it's a nice relaxing part of Brighton.

It does have a museum and you can also go into the Pavilion when you purchase a ticket.

7. Hop-on Hop-off Brighton Bus

Another Brighton activity if the weather is terrible on your trip to Brighton, you don't fancy walking or you're on a tight on time whilst on your Brighton day trip from London is a hop-on, hop-off bus!

The Brighton hop-on hop-off bus actually visits so many places that you probably wouldn't walk to meaning you'll get to see a lot of Brighton on it.

The other benefit is, of course, having a commentary whilst travelling around to get a better understanding of Brighton and the local area.

For example one of the routes stops at: Palace Pier, British Airways i360, Grand Avenue, Sussex County Cricket, Hove, Palmeira Square, St Anns Well Gardens, Brighton Station, Imperial Arcade, Brighton Pavilion/Old Steine, Royal Crescent/Bedford Street, Brighton Marina/Seattle Hotel and Maderia Terrace.

Check our routes and book tickets for the Hop On Hop Off Bus here.

8. Brighton's White Cliffs

England's Southern coastline is popular for its White Cliffs and like me, you may have heard of the White Cliffs of Dover or the Seven Sisters Cliffs,

(BTW if you want to visit these at some point, check out my post on how to visit the White Cliffs of Dover from London!  & how to visit the Seven Sister Cliffs from London ),

But did you know that Brighton has White Cliffs too and they are one of the popular places to visit near Brighton??

To get to the Brighton White cliffs you can take a  bike tour from Brighton which I think sounds really cool, you can look out for tours once on your Brighton day trip or hire a bike yourself to see them!

Or, if you happen to drive to Brighton which you may do as Brighton is one of the popular places to visit on a  Southern England road trip , be sure to jump back in the car and drive to them as they seem to be a local spot that not too many tourists go to in Brighton!

9. Boho Gelato for Ice Cream

No trip to the seaside is complete without ice cream right?

Boho Gelato has been in Brighton for a few years now, it has 2 stores and it's popular due to its many unique flavours so you have to visit Boho Gelato for on your Brighton day trip from London!

It's also popular because Zoella and Alfie Days who live in Brighton go there a lot!

Think Jam Donut, Cheesecake, Gin and Tonic, Lager and Lime etc. Their flavours change on a daily basis and they have Vegan options!

Rain or Shine, get your ice cream fix from Boho Gelato in Brighton!

10. Explore Brighton Lanes & Brighton North Laine

Finally, another one of the top Brighton attractions to finish off your Brighton day trip are its Laneways,  they are a must-visit on a trip to Brighton.

Brighton is home to 'The Lanes' and 'North Laine' which are in fact different things although they are quite close together.

The Lanes are a collection of narrow laneways located in the Historic Quarter of Brighton . The Brighton Lanes are full of independent shops like antiques and jewellery shops alongside designer boutique fashion shops.

Brighton North Laine , however, has a slightly different feel to it. It's located in the Cultural Quarter and the streets are wider. It's home to independent shops as well but shops that are more exotic and funky. Think vintage fashion, vegetarian-friendly shoes, locally made jewellery!

There are also plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants in this area of the city so you can get some food and drink before finishing your Brighton day trip from London and getting back on the train to London!

Best Train Tickets from London to Brighton

Don't forget to prebook your train from Brighton to London , if you don't you might be in for a nasty expensive train ride back! It's always best to book a return ticket for your day trips from London by train .

So make sure you get onto The Train Line and book as soon as you know when you'll go as the further out you book, the cheaper the London to Brighton train tickets will be!

If you are worried about the fact that you'll have all your bags on you when you are in London and don't want to take them to Brighton with you for the day, look into where you can  store your luggage near London Victoria before you get on the train and you can pick them up when you return!

FAQ About Day Trips to Brighton from London

How can i spend a day in brighton.

Head down to the beach and Brighton pier first and this is what is so great about Brighton, after that walk up to Hove and the colourful beach huts. Then explore the city by visiting Brighton Pavilion and the quirky Brighton Lanes for shopping and window shopping. Don't forget to stop at a cool cafe and bar in Brighton too!

Is Brighton expensive to visit?

Brighton is one of the more expensive cities in the UK due to its South and Coastal location and proximity to London, however when visiting Brighton on a day trip you will not see a huge increase in prices, in fact, if you are coming from London, Brighton should seem cheaper than London on a day trip!

How many days do you need to visit Brighton?

Whilst you can easily spend 2-3 days exploring Brighton, 1 day in Brighton is enough to see and experience a lot of the city as the city is very walkable.

What can you do on a Brighton day trip?

There are a lot of things to do in Brighton on a day trip because the city is so walkable and easy to get around. Head down to the beach and Brighton pier first and this is what is so great about Brighton, after that walk up to Hove and the colourful beach huts. Then explore the city by visiting Brighton Pavilion and the quirky Brighton Lanes for shopping and window shopping. Don't forget to stop at a cool cafe and bar in Brighton too!

I hope this post helps plan your day trip to Brighton from London and gives you ideas of things to do in Brighton in 1 day!

• Related London Day Trip Posts:
• Visiting the Seven Sisters Cliffs on a Day Trip from London!
• Spending the Day in Margate on a Day Trip From London. My True Thoughts!
• Visiting the White Cliffs of Dover on a Day Trip from London!
• 10 Things Not To Miss When Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip From London!
• 10 Things To Do in Bath on a Day Trip from London!
• A Day Trip to Stonehenge & Bath from London!

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Friday 17th of August 2018

I love Brighton - my sister has lived there for over 15 years since she moved to go to Sussex uni. I have visited and stayed many times, even living there for a year. The Pavillion is amazing isn't it and I love Hove too - nicer beach than Brighton I think!

Brighton Day Trip from London: Is Brighton Worth Visiting?

When the sun is shining, the sky is clear and the temperature reaches 25C, nothing is better than a beach getaway.

Among the coastal cities near London, Brighton & Hove, located in East Sussex only about 50mi away from England’s capital, is a popular student city and a famous British summer destination.

If you’re thinking about taking a day trip to Brighton from London, especially in the height of summer as I did, you might be wondering if it’s worth it or not. Trains can be packed, the beach can be overcrowded, queues everywhere…

I know your concerns.

It’s the reason that after my visits I decided to write this post with all the information you need to plan your Brighton day trip, including useful tips, a practical itinerary, costs, and the best things to do in Brighton in one day.

Table of Contents

How to Get to Brighton From London

The train is the quickest and easiest way to travel from London to Brighton. It takes approximately one hour, and tickets start at £12.

There are over 200 daily trains during the high season departing from three main stations: Victoria, Blackfriars, and London Bridge. However, you can also hop on a train to Brighton from St Pancras, Farringdon, and East Croydon.

If you want to save time on your journey, take one of the fastest routes, without changes: 

• From London Victoria with Southern Railway (58min)
• From Blackfriars with Thameslink (1h14min)
• From London Bridge with Thameslink (1h02min)

You can choose between off-peak or anytime day return, standard or first class.

Book your ticket online in advance so you can find the best deals.

If you’re travelling to Brighton on a budget, the best option is to take a bus.

The coach from London to Brighton takes an average of 2h45min and tickets can be as low as £6 (each way).

There are up to 4 services per day from Victoria Coach Station, Vauxhall, Stockwell, Streatham, Rose Hill, and Belmont.

The first coach departs at 8h and the last at 19h30min.

If you catch the first bus, you’ll get there before 11h, and you’ll have enough time to enjoy a day in Brighton.

Driving to Brighton is more convenient, particularly for those with kids and from other parts of the UK.

From central London to Brighton takes between 1h40min and 2h, in normal traffic conditions, and the travel distance is 75mi (120Km).

How to get around

Regardless of the mode of transportation that you’re travelling to Brighton from London for the day, getting around is easy.

You don’t need a car or take public transport. You can do everything on foot.

From Brighton train station to the beach is between a 10 – 15min walk. The exit takes you onto Queens Road, and you just head straight down this road towards the sea until you reach the beach.

Brighton Coach Station is based just on the seafront. If you’re driving, find car parking and pay the daily fee because it won’t be needed.

In case you don’t want to walk around Brighton & Hove (the two parts of the city), and still want to see its best attractions, you can book the Sightseeing bus or this bike tour .

Brighton Day Trip Itinerary

• 10h – Arrive in Brighton
• 10h20min to 11h20min – Visit the Royal Pavilion and its gardens
• 11h20min – Head towards Brighton Pier via East Street (10min walk)
• 11h30min to 12h30min – Enjoy the rides or simply admire the superb views from the pier
• 13h – Have lunch in one of the seafront restaurants or do a picnic on the beach
• 14h – Relax on Brighton Beach
• 17h – Take your flight at British Airways i360
• 17h30min – Go for a stroll along the promenade and sightseeing
• 18h20min – Head back to the train station
• 19h – Leave Brighton

10 Best Things to Do In Brighton

You booked your ticket, packed your bag, and can’t wait to feel the ocean breeze blowing in your face, hear the waves, and relax on the beach, can you?

If you’re wondering what to do on a Brighton day trip, wonder no more. Here are the ten best things to do in Brighton in one day.

1 – Visit the Royal Pavilion

A trip to Brighton cannot be complete without visiting the Royal Pavilion !

The building was constructed as a modest 18 th -century lodging house, but George, Prince of Wales, transformed it into a graceful neo-classical villa with the help of the architect Henry Holland.

In 1815 George hired the eminent architect John Nash, the same who designed Buckingham Palace and Regent’s Park, to redesign the building in the Indian style. The work was finished in 1823 when George was already a king.

This former royal residence is open to the public daily from 9h30min to 17h45min and costs £18. Book your ticket online in advance here .

I do recommend that you visit the interior of this exotic palace, which has all the grandeur of the Regency era mixed with Indian and Chinese styles.

But if you don’t have time, don’t miss the opportunity to marvel at this masterpiece of architecture.

Visiting the Royal Pavilion was one of the highlights of my Brighton day trip. I loved it!

2 – Get a bird’s eye view of Brighton

Dominating Brighton and Hove’s seafront skyline is the British Airways i360, a viewing tower and fully enclosed glass pod designed by the architects behind the conception and build of the London Eye.

The tower is designed as a 162m (531ft) tall needle structure with an ascending and descending spacious circular viewing platform, has a capacity for 200 people, and provides unparalleled panoramic views of the city of Brighton and beyond.

You can admire the city landmarks, artwork on rooftops, wind farms out at the sea, and the stunning coastline from the Seven Sisters cliffs to the Isle of Wight.

The British Airways i360 is open year-round, “flights” operate every 30min on the hour and half-hour, and the adult ticket (from 25 years old) costs £17.95.

This is a one-and-only experience and I highly recommend it. Book your flight ticket online in advance here .

3 – Take a stroll along the promenade

Whether you’re visiting Brighton for the day, during the spring, summer, or fall, strolling along the promenade is the perfect way to experience Brighton and Hove’s vibrant seaside.

You’ll see people playing sports, cycling, rollerblading, skating, running, street artists performing, etc.

You can walk from the Marina to Hove Lagoon, 4mi (6.5Km), but my recommendation is to go from the pier to the vivid beach huts.

4 – Explore Brighton Palace Pier

Another famous landmark that you can’t miss on your day trip from London to Brighton is the Palace Pier , one of the most impressive piers in the UK.

The 525m (1,722 ft) long Pier in Victorian style has an array of attractions to please every visitor.

From a waterfront theme park with rides to arcades, restaurants, bars, and deck chairs to enjoy the views, fortune tellers, and activities for the whole family.

Don’t forget to put the Palace Pier on your list. You’ll be rewarded with splendid sea views.

5 – Wander around the streets of Brighton

Even though you’re spending only a day in Brighton, you still have time to wander around its charming streets.

My recommendation is that when you leave the train station, walk down Queens Road until the pedestrianized Duke Street. There are shops, pubs, and eateries with outdoor seating, and you can continue through the adorable Duke Lane.

Another appealing street to check out is East Street, home to Brighton’s oldest boozer dating from at least 1568, high-end shops and restaurants, street artists, etc.

6 – Discover the picturesque Brunswick Square

Another place to check out is Brunswick Square, on the Hove side of the city.

It’s a central square with a beautiful and perfumed garden surrounded by identical yellow terraced houses built for the upper classes between 1820 and 1840.

Brunswick was home to notorious residents, it’s very peaceful and one of my favourite points of interest in Brighton.

In addition to the square, there are two distinguished seafront buildings, one on each edge, with Corinthian columns, Welsh Slate roofs, and Scottish stone pavements.

Brunswick Square and Terrace is one of the finest examples of Regency development in Great Britain. If you’re an architecture lover, you shouldn’t miss it.

7 – Savour the local dishes

The coastal town of Brighton has a wide range of restaurants and gastropubs for every taste and pocket.

From Middle Eastern cuisine to Japanese, Indian, Italian, French, Greek, and of course British.

If British food doesn’t excite you, what about having locally caught fish and chips while taking in the sea views from the pier? Or fresh shellfish by the beach?

Well, if you’re not a big fan of seafood or a vegetarian, there are other dishes that you can try during your Brighton day trip, such as Shepperd’s Pie, Bangers and Mash, etc.

Don’t leave Brighton without savouring a 99-flake ice cream. It’s ridiculously delicious!

8 – Enjoy the live music

If there’s something that Brighton isn’t short of, it’s live music.

When visiting Brighton, you’ll find local talents playing music everywhere you go.

From classical music at The Royal Pavilion’s gardens to trendy hits at the seafront bars, jazz at The Bandstand , and folk music at the Upside Down House , there are genres to please everyone.

The most popular outdoor terraced beachfront bars to enjoy live music whilst sipping a cocktail are Brighton Music Hall and OhSo Social .

9 – Practice sports

A day in Brighton can be packed with fun activities, especially if you’re a sports lover.

It’s because the seaside of the city boasts a wide range of places to play your favourite sport.

Beach volleyball, basketball, football, bocce, and beach tennis (the first time I saw people playing this sport), are just some of them.

You can rent a bike, a paddleboard, a kayak , or jet sky, not to mention walk and swim in the sea. It’s free.

10 – Relax on Brighton Beach

A day trip to Brighton cannot end without spending some time on its famous beach.

The buzzing pebble beach, dotted with wind farms at the sea, has crystal-clear green water and excellent infrastructure.

There are toilets, lifeguards on duty, chairs and umbrellas for hire, restaurants, bars, beach clubs, playgrounds, a kid’s swimming pool, souvenir shops, and even art exhibitions.

After travelling from London to Brighton, sightseeing, and being entertained by the city’s attractions, you must be eager to simply lounge on the beach.

So, lay down your towel, take off your clothes, put sunscreen on, rest, and relax on the beach feeling the cool breeze.

P.S: If you don’t want to lie on the pebbles, which isn’t that bad, you can hire a deck chair for £4.00, a sunbed for £8.00, a parasol for £7.00 and a windbreaker for £5.00.

Is Brighton Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!

The greatest thing about taking a trip to Brighton is that it is not just a beach getaway. There are more things to do and see than just lying on the beach.

The top Brighton attractions are within walking distance, the city is easy to navigate, has a very good vibe, and welcomes all tribes.

Furthermore, if you live in a bustling city like London, what can be better than going to the beach on a summer day?

I had a fantastic time in Brighton & Hove and highly recommend that you visit it, even for the day.

Is Brighton Expensive to Visit?

If you’re planning to take a day trip from London to Brighton by train, you’ll spend between £30 – 100.

Here’s the breakdown of my expenses.

• Return ticket: £25.10
• British Airways i360 Sparkling Wine Experience: £29.50
• Drinks and food at Brighton Beach Club: £30
• 99 Flake ice cream at JJ’s: £2.50

Total: £87.10

Extra Tips for Planning a Day Trip to Brighton

Plan your trip in advance to arrive in Brighton early and get the most out of it.

Bring a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water along with you.

There’s a Tesco and a Sainsbury’s on Queens Road, a 5min-walk from the train station, in case you want to get some snacks and refreshments.

Arrive at least 15min before the train departure to get a good seat.

If you’re driving, you can leave your car at Regency Square car park, which is located opposite BA i360, at BN1 2FG.

Ticket holders must arrive at BA i360 at least 20min before the flight time.

Safe travels and have fun in East Sussex.

Watch Video – What to Do on a Brighton Day Trip from London

More posts about the UK that might interest you:

• 8 Best Things to Do in London for Free
• Nearest Tube to Buckingham Palace
• Where to Find the Best Christmas Lights in London
• 3 Days in Edinburgh – Best Things to Do, Where to Stay & Eat
• Boating on the Canals with GoBoat London
• Van Gogh Immersive Experience London
• Best UK Road Trip Ideas for Your Holiday

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Episode 96 – 10 Easy day trips from London by train (Part 1)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: April 30, 2024

In episode 96 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast , hosts Tracy and Doug Collins discuss easy day trips from London by train. They delve into the details of five convenient and captivating destinations, providing insights into which train station/s to depart from, travel durations, and must-see attractions in each destination.

From the historic city of York to the vibrant seaside town of Brighton, the hosts share tips and recommendations for making the most of each day trip. Additionally, they touch upon factors to consider when planning these excursions, such as travel days and time of year.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to train journeys, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you plan your perfect UK vacation.

Click the blue button below to listen:

This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my  disclosure  here for more information.

Episode 96 – Show Notes

10 easy day trips from london by train (part 1).

Key topics covered in this episode include:

• Tracy Collins introduces the episode and guest Doug to discuss easy day trips from London by train.
• Episode divided into two parts to talk about the easiest and best day trips from London.
• Focus on easy train destinations to plan day trips from London.

Destinations

• York’s attractions, including the National Rail Museum, York Minster, The Shambles, and Jorvik Experience, are highlighted.
• Recommendation to listen to episode 3 for more details about York.
• Recommendation to include a visit to King’s College Chapel and the town’s arty and historic attractions.
• Canterbury: Details about train stations in London, train journey duration, and attractions including the historic cathedral and medieval streets.
• Detailed mention of planning for cash for taxis.
• Brighton: Discussion about train stations, journey time, attractions including the Brighton Pavilion, quirky shops, and the pebble beach.
• Mention of an upcoming episode about Brighton.

Travel Tips

• Train Travel Tips: Discussion on essential tips for train travel, including ensuring ticket validity, activating passes, and purchasing tickets in advance.
• Factors Influencing Travel: Considerations for school holidays, summer months, weekends, and the time of year.
• Recap of the destinations covered, references to Doug’s ebook, and travel guides for the visited places.
• Announcement of part 2 of the episode focusing on another 5 destinations and a bonus destination.

Places mentioned in this episode include

• York Travel Guide
• Cambridge Travel Guide -> Cambridge Walking Tour with Kings College Option
• Canterbury Travel Guide
• Dover – How to get to Dover from London
• Brighton Travel Guide

Click here to download a PDF Transcript of Episode 96

Useful resources

• Episode 3 – Guide to York
• Guide to UK Train Travel
• Guide to London Train Stations

Subscribe and review

If you have found our Podcast helpful please leave us a review ! We really appreciate your support and it will help make our podcast visible to a greater audience.

Please subscribe so you don’t miss any future episodes!

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Breaking News

7 epic day trips you can take by train from Union Station

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Unpopular opinion: The train is the best mode of vacation transportation.

I’ll take the ease of ticket purchasing, relaxed atmosphere in the stations and breathtaking scenery of train travel over the stress of flying and angst of driving any day. I’ve ridden the train up and down the Southern California coast, taken the three-day Amtrak journey from L.A. to Seattle (twice!), spent a couple of days in a scenic car over the Canadian Rockies and traveled by rail in Europe and Japan. My observation is that people are just nicer when they’re traveling by train — except for that one guy who glared at me when my coffee splashed near him as we went over a particularly bumpy bridge in Oregon.

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Dennis Mukai, an artist who lives in Ojai and travels frequently to San Juan Capistrano, San Diego and San Luis Obispo, started taking the train in 2018 when the horrific Montecito mudslides closed the 101 Freeway. “It’s now been six years,” he said. “ I rarely opt to drive as the train gives me the opportunity to read, catch up on my work or catch up on sleep.”

Taking a day trip via Amtrak is a great way to get a taste of train travel without committing to a multiday trip. In this guide, I highlight seven trips that start at Union Station, take three hours or less each way and have plenty of fun things to do within walking distance of the stations.

First, some travel tips:

• Make your time at Union Station part of your itinerary. There’s nothing like walking through the majestic entrance and halls to experience all the romanticism of train travel. You can even kick off your trip at with a celebratory Bloody Mary at classic restaurant and bar Traxx . There are several parking options. Lot B, which is right in front of the entrance, usually has plenty of open spots and is $16 for the entire day. Other lots will get you closer to the tracks, but you’ll miss out on walking through the beautiful lobby.
• You might consider upgrading to business class, as the price difference is not that significant (a recent search for a fare from L.A. to Santa Barbara was only $16 more than coach). The upsell will get you benefits such as priority boarding, less crowded cars, more leg room, a dedicated attendant, complimentary drinks and coffee and a surprisingly substantial snack box (mine had crackers, cheese, hummus, dried fruit, a beef stick and brownie crisps).
• You can bring your own food on the train — unlike with air travel, no one will throw out your $20 smoothie. There’s also the Market Café on the Pacific Surfliner, which sells snacks, light meals and beverages including coffee, beer and wine.

If you’re hoping to catch the most stunning scenery, where you sit makes a difference. If you’re heading north of L.A., try to snag a seat on the left side of the train. After leaving Union Station, you’ll roll through city stops like Glendale, and the Bob Hope Airport, and then start seeing some lush valley and agricultural views. After that, you’ll ride through the tunnels of the Santa Susana Pass and get a glimpse of the craggy rock formations in Chatsworth. Once you hit Oxnard, you’ll be in for some breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and beaches.

Heading south, a seat on the right side of the train will get you some great views once you pass San Juan Capistrano. Up until this point you’ll be inland and rolling through city stops, but some of the stations are beautiful and should be noted. You might recognize the massive Mediterranean-style station in Santa Ana from the TV series “True Detective” and the movie “Rain Man,” and the stop at the Anaheim station gives you a perfect view of Anaheim Stadium. After San Juan Capistrano, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and beaches, and destinations for future trips, like the San Clemente Pier.

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San Juan Capistrano

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Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Monday 29 April 2024 09:17, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

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Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes

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My four-day rail and ferry adventure from the UK to Albania

From London to Tirana, via Chambéry’s medieval streets, bustling Bari and Albania’s dynamic capital, this trip across Europe has treats at every turn

M y overriding memories of crossing countries by train, on a trip from London to Albania, are of half-empty carriages and countryside sweeping past windows bathed in the soft orange glow of sunset. I remember cypress trees, red-roofed villages with square churches, farmland in neat strips and row upon row of vineyards.

On my London-Paris-Chambéry-Turin-Bari-Tirana journey over land and sea, there was, for long stretches, little to do. The wifi was patchy. It took a while to adapt to having so much time to simply watch the world go by, travelling through landscapes without having to navigate them.

The biggest stress happened long before I set off, when a landslide not far from the French border with Italy blocked the rail line between Chambéry and Turin, forcing a closure that continues today. Byway, the no-fly operator I had booked with, offered to reroute me through Nice and on to Turin via the Vermenagna valley (with changes in Tende and Cuneo), or book me on the FlixBus service over part of the Mont Blanc massif. I was keen to see Chambéry and the Alps, so I chose the bus.

People seemed surprised when I told them I was travelling overland to Albania. As I gushed about the romance of slow travel by train and sleeper ferry, and my excitement about Tirana, I got comments about being “brave”. I didn’t feel especially brave: all the planning, tickets and hotel bookings were done for me, and friendly help was a WhatsApp call away if needed.

I just had to download the Rail Planner app for my Interrail pass and make sure I was at the right station at the right time (Turin was the biggest challenge: it has four main railway stations and taxis scream between them bearing anxious-looking passengers).

The entire journey took four days. If I did it all again, I’d stay longer in Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot – and remember to buy my Paris Métro ticket from the cafe on the Eurostar.

Day one: London to Chamb éry

First to Paris’s Gare du Nord, then the metro to Gare de Lyon, where I make a beeline for a cafe opposite the station. Noise pervades the pavement tables of Café Terminus, but the cacophony is delightful – an atmospheric place for a citron pressé .

I’m in plenty of time for the train to Chambéry and, excitingly, am on the upper deck. Soon, we break free from the suburbs to trace huge stands of forest. Beyond Lyon begins a ripple of hills, lazy rivers and thickly forested slopes. As evening approaches, it’s all Alpine scenery. I arrive at an almost-empty station and walk to the boutique Hotel des Princes in Chambéry’s old town.

Chambéry has an Italian feel – it was the seat of the House of Savoy before the dynasty moved on to Turin – and its medieval alleys, cathedral and pastel-coloured townhouses are quietly impressive. The 1838 Fontaine des Éléphants sits in the middle of the closest square to the old town, and peeking from the end of every street are the Bauges and Chartreuse mountain ranges. My stay is peaceful and easy.

Day two: Chamb éry to Turin

From Chambéry, the train to Turin would take about 2½ hours, but the bus takes double this. I’m on the top deck again, which is worth it for the sight of misty fingers of early morning light breaking across the mountain ridge. Snoozing backpackers rouse themselves to snap pictures of remote Mont Blanc peaks, before slumbering once more through the tunnel to Italy. In Turin there’s perfume in the air from the blossom-covered trees.

Turin’s grid of long, straight boulevards is testament to its development by the Romans – the redbrick Palatine Gate is another Roman relic – and its grand piazzas, royal palaces and graffitied colonnades date from the city’s Savoy heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the number one attraction is the Museo Egizio (Egyptian Museum).

My favourite moments? Ricotta and fig ice-cream on Piazza San Carlo, an aperitivo on off-the-beaten-path Via Sant’Agostino and the towering neoclassical Mole Antonelliana (national museum of cinema). I eat Turin’s famous doughy pizza al padellino (pan pizza) and spend a comfortable night in the eaves of Hotel Urbani in 19th-century residential streets close to the grand Porta Nuova train station.

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Day three: Turin to Bari

The views from my next train are of cinematic Tuscan scenes. Scorched fields, vines and Italian cypress trees. Neat red roofs and shabby-chic farmhouses. Fluffy clouds cling to hills that Google Maps tells me are the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines. After hours of soothing golden landscapes, the opal-blue Adriatic wallops into view just north of Ancona. Beach bars whip by and cypress trees are replaced with palm trees: I’ve arrived in the south of Italy.

Bari is hands down my favourite stop. The noise, heat and energy as we step off the train in the early evening are joyous. After Chambéry and Turin, Bari feels brash, a little rough around the edges even; a proper port city. The labyrinthine alleyways of the whitewashed old town are almost cliched in their cuteness. Despite the troupes of tightly packed headphone-wearing Americans following guided tours, it somehow manages to retain a tranquil atmosphere.

Old ladies yawn from the shade as tourists surreptitiously snap pictures and laundry flutters from balconies. I could stay for ever, but after 24 hours (which includes a lot of pasta, a stroll along the posh promenade to the not-so-posh city beach and a night in an elegant aparthotel, Residence Zodiacus , halfway between the station and the old town), it’s time to board the night ferry to Albania.

Day (and night) four: Bari to Tirana

I arrive at the ferry on foot and am escorted through the car deck to jokes about going in the wrong direction (to Albania, instead of from it). In the early morning I spot a pink sky through the cracked window of my comfy en suite cabin, and head to the top deck to see the sun rise over the distant outline of Albania. Disembarking in the port of Durrës is a bit of a scrum and there’s a bus to the capital waiting, but I opt instead for a five-minute taxi ride to the centre of town and breakfast of pastries and espresso on a dazzling white road lined with boutiques and palm trees. I later regret this though, as the aircon on the grubby public bus I eventually take to Tirana is more tired than I am, and drops me in an urban sprawl miles from the centre.

Tirana itself is a revelation. My hotel, Padam Boutique , is a grand villa with handsome rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows, and there’s striking new skyward architecture on every nearby street. A short stroll away is the landmark Pyramid of Tirana , which stands as a symbol and monument to change (and is fun to climb at sunset). Skanderbeg Square – a jumble of buildings erected on a roundabout at the time of the celebrations to mark the fall of communism in 1992 – is now a pedestrianised, glossy public space. There are nods to Albania’s recent, wretched history behind the iron curtain, of course – the Bunk’Art and Bunk’Art 2 museums, in nuclear bunkers are unmissable – but Tirana and the country are more than just the last century. My journey is done, but it feels like Tirana is just getting into its stride.

The trip was provided by Byway , which offers sustainable travel and accommodation packages across the UK and Europe. Its Alps to Albania trip costs from £679pp

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I'm a high school senior who commutes an hour by train to school every day. It's helped prepare me for the real world.

• Four years ago, I started commuting to my high school — which is an hour away — by train. 
• Sometimes the commute got difficult, especially when trains were delayed or canceled. 
• But I learned how to be independent; I'm taking this real-life experience with me to college.

I hadn't thought about how cushy life was in grade school when my father drove me 10 minutes to school every morning.

But that ended when I started high school at The Hudson School, which is 25 miles away from my home in Madison, New Jersey.

Unlike the schools around me, The Hudson School offers an urban campus and an extremely small class size — only 26 people in my grade. When I learned it also offers courses not found in a traditional high school curriculum, such as Ancient Greek and military history, I knew it was right for me.

But with it being so far from my home, I have to travel every day to and from school via New Jersey Transit . It takes me a little under an hour to get to school and up to 75 minutes to get home.

Now that I'm a high school senior , I look back fondly on my four-year commute. I learned a lot on those trains — but not all of it was great.

When I first started commuting to school, it was nerve-racking

I thought I knew what I was getting myself into on that first day of freshman year — but after waking up at 6 a.m. and planning to make a 6:45 train, I realized that I would have to make some changes. I started to adjust my routine: I packed my backpack the night before so it was ready to go in the morning, and I ate my breakfast on the train.

Right off the bat, my parents were concerned about me getting on and getting off the train in the dark — not to mention the discomfort of being surrounded by strangers every time I rode the train because this was the fall of 2020, and COVID was still very much a concern.

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Meanwhile, I realized I was on my own for the first time. I had to make sure to have my tickets ready and deal with difficult conductors. In the beginning, I was nervous.

But I quickly got into the swing of things that first year and learned to enjoy my commute . Four years later, those commute jitters are long gone.

I learned real-life experiences from a young age

It didn't take long before I developed a routine and became familiar with the ins and outs of navigating trains , and I found that I could even sit with some friends from school who also commuted.

At first, I felt I was wasting valuable time just sitting on the train, so I soon started using my time productively by completing my homework . Because of this, I have learned to work in almost any environment.

I also learned a whole new set of skills. I have to ensure I have my tickets ready every morning and that I am on the right track for my train — little things that I hadn't really had to worry about before.

Additionally, I had to think on my feet and learned how to handle the unexpected. I know which stations offer transfers, so if I missed my connection, I knew where I can catch a different train. I also have learned to read a timetable, which came in handy when I was in Europe last summer .

But commuting every day isn't always easy

Commuting did take a toll on my social life . Some of my classmates didn't live so far from the school, so they didn't have to worry about a long commute. They were able to stay in Hoboken and hang out. Whenever I joined them, I had to keep the train schedules in my mind. The longer I hung out, the later I would get home, cutting into my homework and study time.

Commuting by train also means inherent mechanical issues. There have been days when it has taken me hours to get to school. It can get exhausting and draining; there are some days when I wish I could just get home as quickly as my peers who live in Hoboken and not have to deal with mass transit .

Plus, there have been times when I needed to get to school on time — for a big project or test — and then my train would suddenly get canceled or experience a delay. On those days, I struggled the most and had to get creative. Sometimes, I had to rent a bike to finish the commute. Other times, I had to get to another station to catch a faster train.

I imagined how much easier it would be if I were a regular high school student who took the bus to school.

Still, I'm glad I got to commute 25 miles every day before heading off to college

Looking back at the past four years, I realize commuting has helped prepare me for the real world — outside high school.

Now that I am about to head off to college, I feel that these experiences have helped me learn lessons about time management and problem-solving that I might otherwise not have learned.

It may have been a struggle at times, but I know that it was all worth it for the education I got in the end.

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All about Ashland Train Day: Virginia town's street festival and railroad extravaganza

ASHLAND, Va. -- Ashland Train Day, a free street festival and railroad extravaganza that celebrates the charming Virginia town's love of all things trains, is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

"We want to make the tracks the center of the center of the universe. So we're surrounding the tracks with all of our railroad fun," Louise Keaton, the marketing director for Downtown Ashland Association, said.

For two decades, Ashland has celebrated its love for trains with the festival.

"Our entire downtown was built around these tracks in the 1800s," Keaton said. "We want to celebrate that history by sharing our history, by creating events like Ashland Day, and here at Downtown Ashland Association we're working towards the vitality of our downtown every day."

For the 20th anniversary of Ashland Train Day, visitors can expect to see more vendors, food trucks as well as some special attractions.

"We have railroad history thanks to the National Museum, the Hanover Black Heritage Society and the Haunted History Tours of Ashland," Keaton said. "We of course have Touch a Truck thanks to RCI Builders, so you can get a hands-on experience with your favorite vehicles."

There is a scavenger hunt, model trains for the kids, and new this year, a beer garden for the adults at the Hanover Arts and Activity Center.

"Our 20th anniversary is being celebrated by Amtrak with the Amtrak raffle to two tickets anywhere along the East Coast," Keaton said. "As well as by Sports Page Bar and Grill and Trackside Kitchen and Wine. They are the reason that today is entirely free."

Registration for the Amtrak raffle is now open online. The winner will be announced on Train Day.

"One of the things we're most excited about is Children's Day, thanks to Los Regios. They are bringing the Mexican Children's Day traditions right here to Ashland just like they do every day through their store," Keaton said.

Teresa Lopez de Ocanas, who owns Los Regios said the store just celebrated its second anniversary.

I've been living here since 2010 and I love Train Day," Lopez de Ocanas said. "I love my town and I love to see all the trains. At first, believe me, when I moved here, I was like, 'Oh my God, trains!' You know all the sounds, but you [end up] loving your town that you know is full of trains during the day."

And now her store, in partnership with the YMCA, is hosting the Children's Day Celebration with performances, entertainment and giveaways.

"We have more than 300 toys that we're gonna give away to all the kids that show up that day," she said. "We have a special bag full of candy and some of the information from you know, different stuff here in Ashland."

Street parking is available for Train Day, but there is also parking at three designated areas with free shuttle rides sponsored by Randolph Macon College.

"We also suggest that you go ahead and take the train into Ashland," Keaton encouraged. "So that way you can be dropped off right in the middle of all of the action without having to worry about parking at all."

More than 200 volunteers and first responders help make the free event such a success.

Click here for more information about Ashland Train Day.

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