one day trip to brighton

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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 .

If you liked it, please share it!

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this day out in Brighton? Pin it for later!

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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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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One Day in Brighton (2024) – 8 Brilliant Things to Do on a Brighton Day Trip!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 19, 2024

Categories BRIGHTON , ENGLAND

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

If you’re heading to the coast and looking for how to spend one day in Brighton, you’ve come to the right place.

Ever since reading Brighton Rock by Graham Greene and watching the recent movie remake, I’ve wanted to visit Brighton. It just looked like such a hip retro seaside town.

I added it to my never-ending bucket list around 3 years ago and I kept meaning to go there. Each year I said I’d make the journey, but the opportunity didn’t surface. I mean, for me, it’s not that far.

It’s only in the UK, right? This year, I was determined. I was going to make it happen. And now finally, I’m proud to say, in my 28 years on this beautiful Earth; I made it to Brighton!

Brighton is a little bit of a mixture of sorts. It’s got a great vibe!

The Edwardian pier, the pebble beach and promenade, the Indian architecture, the super-cool retro Lanes, and the i360 all make it the perfect place for a day out!

Here’s how to spend one day in Brighton & 8 brilliant things to do.

8 Brilliant things to do with one day in Brighton

1. head to the brighton beach.

Although from afar it looks like a sandy shore, the Brighton beach is actually full of pebbles.

They can be really uncomfortable to walk on if you have sandals so be prepared to remove stones out of your shoes if you’re taking a stroll.

At one point, when I was near the deck chairs, there seemed to be some sort of pebble sinkhole and I ended up falling over a few times! It was quite hilarious.

On the day we were there, it was a scorcher!

I couldn’t get over the turquoise colour of the sea. It made me want to dive right in to cool off from the British summer heat.

Unfortunately, I didn’t bring my Bikini as the weather forecast signalled for rain. So, I just had a little paddle.

I cannot tell you how painful the stones were on my feet to get to the water, but it was so worth it!

The beach is the perfect place to relax, sunbathe, have some food and watch the waves crashing onto the shore.

2. Buy a 99′ on Brighton Palace Pier

In the UK, we call an ice cream with a chocolate flake a ’99 or a Mr. Whippy.

It’s strange but the only place where these taste like gold is in the UK. You can get yours on a cone, a double cone, in a tub, an oyster shell, and in all manner of ways. Best to have it with sauce and sprinkles :P

Whenever I come home, I always get a ’99. It just isn’t the British summer if you don’t have ice cream spilling down your hands or on your face! You have to try it!

The Brighton Palace Pier is a stunning place to take a stroll.

Although the attractions and arcades have been updated, the structure is still a step back in time.

It was an avid pastime for Victorians to take a visit to the seaside for their health and piers were the main attractions back in the day.

The Palace pier makes you feel like you’re in that era. There are 3 bars, a tea room, rides, arcade games, souvenir shops, and the best fish and chip shop in Brighton for you to take your pick of.

I would allow at least an hour to explore. The best thing about it for me was the breeze and chilling out on their free deck chairs!

I love ice cream. You deserve someone who looks at you the way I look at ice cream ;)

3. Go shopping on The Lanes in Brighton

The Lanes of Brighton are world-famous and for good reason.

We spent a few hours here and didn’t even scratch the surface of this cool little area. It’s the perfect place for vintage clothes shopping and there are hundreds of shops to choose from.

My favourite shop was the antique market called snoopers paradise which literally looked like a rag-n-bone treasure trove.

They had all sorts of vintage crockery, cameras, posters, and even an old photo booth!

There were also awesome little cafes, deli’s, restaurants, bubble tea shops, boutiques, art installations, and more. So, get lost and enjoy it!

4. Go back in time to the 50’s in Rock-ola!

Tucked away somewhere in the Lanes of Brighton is the cutest little cafe that takes you right back to the 1950s.

Rock-Ola in Brighton is filled wall to wall with Rock ‘n’ Roll memorabilia.

This café is run by the nicest family and they’ll be more than happy to have a chat. 

They serve up a tasty classic British menu and it does a mean fry up! Make sure you select a track from the jukebox and shake ya tail feather.

5. Feel some Desi vibes at the Brighton Royal Pavillion

When I saw this place I kept thinking “am I in England or India?!” haha. The Royal Pavillion is one of the main reasons I wanted to visit Brighton.

This was before I lived in India for 9 months and got my fill of Indian architecture. But, as I was dearly missing India that day, this brought me right back to the Taj Mahal !

It is a short walk from the beach in the city centre and is the perfect setting to relax with a picnic in the park, especially when the sun is shining.

The Pavillion is ‘exotic’ by British standards and used to be a summer palace for King George IV.

It’s now a concert hall and they have shows you can watch throughout the year.

If you wanted to explore the inside, you can book your tickets online at £13 an adult. Personally, I think it’s too pretty from the outside to go in!

6. Don’t forget a stick of Brighton Rock to take home

Oh, the classic British souvenir. A stick of rock from the beach!

I think it’s almost a criminal offense not to buy a stick of rock once in your lifetime if you’ve visited the British seaside!

It’s essentially just a tonne of sugar made into a stick, but it’s really tasty.

For me, getting a stick of Brighton rock seemed all the more special as it took me so long to get here and because of the book.

If you did fancy buying some for your family or friends, they have all sorts of personalisations you can buy.

It’s the perfect gift as they’re light and easy to take home in your suitcase. Just warn them that they will get a sugar high and a sticky hand or face :P

7. Stroll along the prom, prom, prom (Brighton Promenade)!

One of the nicest things about Brighton is a stroll along the promenade.

There is so much going on at all times of day!

There are fairground rides, bars, restaurants, art installations, fishing museums, free volleyball courts, table tennis, caricatures, and the bandstand.

You could walk for hours down the prom and not get bored.

An exciting new addition is a zip wire along the beach which is due to open soon, perfect for you adrenalin junkies out there. Make sure you leave enough time to explore.

8. Finish with Fish and Chips on Brighton beach…but BEWARE of the seagulls!

I saved the best until last. When you’re by the seaside, your daily diet pretty much consists of Fish ‘n’ Chips!

It’s the perfect meal when you’re travelling as it’s tasty, cheap, and filling. Plus, you have the perfect location of the beach right next to you to enjoy them.

Better than a fancy restaurant any day.

The only thing I will say if you’re planning on eating on the beach is BEWARE OF THE SEAGULLS.

As I decided to have the sausage and chips instead of fish, I asked my friend if I could innocently take a picture of his fish supper for my blog.

Little did I know the carnage that would ensue…!

Within seconds, at the speed of lightning, a seagull literally grabbed the cod in his beak and made a run for it! I couldn’t believe my eyes.

Around 10 seagulls then joined him to grab some of the chips which had fallen on the beach.

Although I’m laughing now until my sides hurt, it was actually pretty terrifying at the time!

Of course, I profusely apologised to my mate and got him another cod. It was heartbreaking for him haha.

So, my advice would be to watch out! Don’t take pictures of your fish ‘n’ chips on the beach for the gram. Or, you’ll get this view…

So, that’s 8 ways to spend one day in Brighton!

I was so impressed with Brighton and all it had to offer.

I would highly recommend you take a bit longer than a day to visit.

There’s so much to see and do and its laid-back hipster vibe will make you want to keep coming back.

Don’t delay as I did, go visit Brighton as soon as you can! :)

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Saturday 8th of July 2017

Such a cool city! Also great for a night out with loads of funky / friendly bars n clubs!

Sophie Pearce

Totally! Loved Brighton, will definitely go back! Thanks for reading :)

How to Spend Awesome Day in Brighton – 8 Ideas for Your Day Trip to Brighton

Called the happiest place to live in the UK, the most popular seaside destination for tourists on the island, and also a “UK gay capital”- Brighton is definitely an interesting city to visit, and a Brighton day trip is easy to organize. Here are the tips on how to spend a great day in Brighton.

Located only one hour south of London by train, Brighton is a popular tourist destination. Thanks to the city’s location, a day trip to Brighton from London is a frequent choice for travelers visiting the capital. The city attracted around 9.6 million one-day visitors in 2016 . We also went for a day trip to Brighton at the beginning of January and here is how we spent a day in Brighton!

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Read more: Are you visiting London? Check the colorful and trending London’s East End with the world-class street art – Bricklane

How to spend a day in Brighton – top ideas for a Brighton day trip

The seaside city, overlooking the English Channel waters and called the “English Riviera” has a lot to offer. Even if one day trip to Brighton might not be enough to see everything, you can still catch the glimpse of the pretty coast and feel the happy Brighton vibe. To read up more about Brighton before the trip, grab the book Time Out Shortlist Brighton.

We wanted to have a relaxing day, after New Year’s Eve in London , so we decided just to stroll around the center and chill out on the beach. The day was sunny and bright(on) ( see what I did there? ;)) , and it didn’t feel like winter at all, so it was nice to be outside. We even had our lunch on the restaurant’s outdoor terrace on the beach. Here are some of the ideas on how to spend a nice winter day out in Brighton.

#1 Visit the Royal Pavilion

One of the very interesting places to see in Brighton is the Royal Pavilion . This oriental palace looks like it came straight from exotic India, not the UK. They could switch places with the palace in Bangalore – check here why .

It has a rich, 200 years long history. King George IV ordered to build it as his seaside pleasure house during the fashionable Regency era. In the beginning, it was just a simple lodging house and in 35 years it grew into a spectacular palace. Those times were full of glamour and extravagance, which are reflected in the building’s interior and exterior. After that, the pavilion served as a civic place and even as a hospital for Indian soldiers during World War I. Now, it’s recognized as an icon of Brighton and a must-see Brighton attraction for many tourists.

You can visit the Palace also inside – tickets cost £12.30. However, we didn’t manage to go, as the queue was massive and we preferred to stay longer outside.

In winter, next to the pavilion, there is an ice rink, where you can ice skate and look at the white palace walls reflecting in the ice. This seemed like a lot of fun and I need to come back for another day in Brighton to try it myself.

#2 Walk on the famous Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier (previously named Palace Pier) was opened in 1899 as a pleasure pier. It’s full of shops, and eateries, home to the amusement park, a small casino, and more. Most of the food sold there include seafood, fish, chips and ice cream. The pier is overlooking Brighton beach providing very nice views around. It’s an area bustling with life and if you like people-watching – that’s the place to be.

#3 Chill on the Brighton beach

The beach in Brighton is wide and long but full of pebbles. It was voted one of the Top 10 city beach destinations in the world. To the west, the main part of it takes Fishing Quarter – the heart of the city’s seafront.

#4 Try delicious fish on the seafront

The fishing industry is still active in Brighton today, although most of the fisherman’s houses are now converted into tiny art shops and stylish cafes. However, you can still walk along the beach in the sun, try some freshly caught fish and shellfish from the famous smokehouse and visit Brighton Fishing Museum (free entrance).

#5 Get cultured out

The whole area by the seashore in Brighton is covered in small art galleries and local shops. You can admire the work of the local artists and photographers, which is showcased here. It’s a perfect place to buy some beautiful paintings, sculptures, or prints.

#6 Fly high in British Airways i360

A significant landmark on the beach, visible from the distance, is British Airways i360 – the world’s tallest moving observation tower. You can board it and go to the top to check the wide panorama of the city and the seafront around.

#7 Party till the dawn

At night, the beach turns into a lively club scene with packed cocktail bars and loud music coming from the speakers. It’s happening mostly in the summer, so we didn’t manage to take part in it, as the evenings in winter can be quite chilly.

#8 Explore the Kemp town

This small community, located in close proximity to the beach, is full of colorful and stylish buildings from the Regency era and Victorian architecture. It’s a centre for many artists, musicians, writers, performers, activists and everyone fascinated with the avant-garde. It gives the area a special feel, and together with interesting shops and cafes, creates an interesting place to visit.

We just had limited time during our short Brighton one-day trip, so we didn’t manage to see many of the other places. However, there’s much more than that described above, to see in this very interesting city.

If you only have a chance – try to visit, in either of the seasons. Brighton will welcome you in the brightest way it can!

How to go on a day trip to Brighton from London?

Tickets to get to Brighton from London are quite cheap and the train journey is quick and pleasant. You can book train tickets and check prices here .

Trains run almost every half an hour and even on the day of travelling there can be some good deals. We paid around £10 pp for a return ticket when booked in advance, and similar prices were still available on the day of our journey (2 nd January), a day after the London’s New Year’s Eve party.

Turn a Brighton day trip into a Brighton weekend trip

If you can, stay for the night and check out the great Brighton nightlife, and even more things to do in Brighton. The city is full of charm and it will not disappoint you! 

If you decide to stay for a night Brighton, here you can find great accommodation options for all budgets:

Red Brighton Blue – an 8-minute walk from Brighton Pier and 800 m from The Royal Pavilion offers a great location and beautiful rooms. Check prices and availability here. 

Sea Spray – a l uxury boutique hotel  located on Brighton’s  seafront square, with stylish rooms and delicious breakfast. Check prices and availability here. 

The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel & Spa – is one of the most popular hotels in the area with great location, service, and comfortable rooms. Check prices and availability here. 

Brighton Beach Inn – if you are on a budget, here you can find bunk beds in dormitories where you can meet other travelers. Check prices and availability here. 

Updated May 2022

Have you spent a day in Brighton before? Do you have other recommendations on what to do in Brighton for a perfect day out? Let me know in the comments!

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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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A Day in Brighton – 7 Things to Do on a Brighton Day Trip

There are so many incredible places to explore while vacationing in Britain – but why not give a day in Brighton on the south coast a try?

Brighton is one city many tourists add to their list of stops to make, thanks to the abundance of entertainment, adventure, and unique things to see. So, planning a Brighton day trip ahead of time with your day all mapped out is the best way to find time to enjoy it all. 

Preparing for a Day Trip to Brighton

Day trips are much more enjoyable when you plan the entire thing in advance. Having an idea of what your day will look like will help you prepare for the upcoming event and even plan for the unexpected. 

Before taking off for your trip, there are a few essential things to consider. 

• Preparation – Always be prepared. Order tickets ahead of time, make reservations for any restaurants you plan on stopping at, and check the weather report so you know what to expect. That way, you won’t be disappointed.
• Packing – Since you are prepared, packing is easy. Make sure you are ready for any weather, your kids are stocked with books and activities, and you have extra snacks and drinks just in case. You’ll likely be doing a ton of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers.
• Confirmation – Create a checklist and confirm you are 100% prepared. If you are going with a group, confirm when you will take off and where and when the first meet-up will occur.

There is always the chance of unexpected delays, weather, or wait times, so make sure you give yourself a little wiggle room when planning your day.

7 Things to Do on a Day Trip to Brighton (One-Day Itinerary)

Do you know what Brighton has to offer? This seaside city is bustling with tourist attractions, historical sites, and delicious eateries with menus for every diet. Because this fabulous city is full of things to do, creating a full itinerary for one day isn’t very hard.

We put one together for you with seven incredible things to do packed into one single road trip.

What’s even better? Many of these attractions are so close together you can walk or bike from one activity to the next on a nice warm day.

1. Stop for Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

• Location: 16-17 Market St, Brighton BN1 1HH
• Hours: Weekdays 8 am – 4 pm. Weekends 8:00 am – 5 pm
• Price: $$-$$$
• Food: American, British café

The first stop you must make on your day trip to Brighton should be the local restaurant The Breakfast Club, named “Travellers Choice” in 2022. You will be greeted by friendly staff and a clean facility when you walk into this well-known restaurant. Highchairs are available upon request for the little ones, and their Wi-Fi is always free.

The food is delicious, with some of the best classic breakfast items made to order. Whether you like the basic piping hot pancakes and sausage or are up for something a little more interesting, like eggs benedict with avocado and bacon sandwiches, they have it all.

* A great tip for first-timers: Do not leave this restaurant without grabbing at least one order of their famous bacon rolls or deep-fried chocolate pancake balls. These items are customer favorites and should be experienced at least once.

2. Walk to the Old Police Cells Museum

• Location: Town Hall, Brighton BN1 1JA, United Kingdom
• Tickets: £5 adult tickets for ages 16 – 59, £4 child tickets for ages 5-15, £12 family tickets (2 adults and up to 3 children)
• Time: 1-hour tour
• Hours: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

At this Brighton museum, you will see where a chief constable from the past was murdered, weapons deemed appropriate back in the day, and graffiti from the good ole rocker days.

These old cells were condemned in 1929 and considered unfit for use; however, they still housed detainees for 40 more years. Book your tickets and take a guided tour to discover why and what happened after that.

The Old Police Cells Museum is only a three-minute drive or six-minute walk from The Breakfast Club, and it is definitely worth adding to your Brighton itinerary. 

A retired police officer guides this unique tour. They will spend an hour walking you through the Old Police Cells, providing exciting information regarding the history of the Sussex force, the crimes committed during the time, and how the old cells were used back in the day.

3. Browse a Few Local Art Museums and Shops on Kings Road

• Location: Kings Road
• Hours: 11 am – 6 pm

Once you leave the Old Police Cells Museum, stroll down Kings Road and stop at a few of the popular art museums in the area. Take some time to look around and support the local talent by buying a creative piece or two.

• Daniel Laurence Home and Garden, 226 Kings Road Arches Lower Seafront Promenade is a local shop selling home and garden décor, from beautiful sculptures to hand-crafted wall art and much more. 
• Zorian Artworks, 246 Kings Road Arches is the home of artwork created by the local artist Zorian Matthews, who produces a wide variety of paintings and photography he sells from his storefront on this quaint and bustling street. 
• Rare Interior Art, 245 Kings Road Arches is located right next door to Zorian. Here you will find another beautiful array of artwork for sale by Rare Interior art. This shop offers a selection of limited-edition, original collections in areas like Ganesh art, animals, and Buddha. 

These art pieces can be great gifts or beautiful souvenirs to take home and treasure. Each piece is made by hand and results from hard work and extreme talent.

4. Enjoy Lunch at the Palm Court Restaurant and Bar

• Location: Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1TW
• Hours: 10 am – 8 pm
• Food : Classic British dishes, tea, seafood

After all that walking and shopping, there is a good chance you will be left a bit hungry. When hunger strikes, you should stop at the Palm Court Restaurant to rest your feet, grab some lunch, and recap all the things you have seen so far. 

Take advantage of the outdoor seating offered at Palm Court on Brighton Palace Pier when the weather is nice. Enjoy the beautiful view of the English Channel while eating seafood favorites, classic comfort foods, fresh seasonal salads, and so much more.

Don’t leave until you have enjoyed one of their fabulous sweet treats like deep-fried churros, delicious donuts, and Moo Moo’s milkshakes. 

And, if you are looking for a great spot to enjoy a drink, the Sunset Garden Bar boasts the best cocktails in Brighton.

5. Spend a Few Hours Having Fun at Brighton Pier Amusement Park

• Hours: 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Tickets (wrist bands): £18.00 (1.2m and over), £20.50 for 1.2m and over with VR, Under 1.2m £10.0

While you are already there enjoying lunch, continue down the Brighton Pier to spend some time burning off those calories by enjoying some exciting rides, carnival games, and the arcade at the Brighton Pier Amusement Park.

There is so much fun to be had, you will never find yourself bored or searching for something to do. 

• Win a prize by playing hook a duck or knocking down tin cans
• Hop on the carousel for old-fashioned fun
• Hop on the Turbo Coaster if you dare
• Bounce on the jumbo-sized trampolines
• Cool off on a log ride down the Wild River
• Experience the new VR Twister ride 
• Slide down the Mega Slide
• Bravely walk your way through the Horror Hotel
• And much, much more!

Purchase your tickets in advance and select the day and time you plan on visiting the Brighton beach pier park here . 

6. Eat a Picnic Dinner and Relax at the Royal Pavilion Gardens 

By this time, you and your family or friends are sure to be exhausted and ready to sit down and relax. The best place to do this in Brighton is the Royal Pavilion Gardens. You won’t be disappointed in the stunning gardens with brightly colored flowers and harmless wildlife roaming the grounds.

This stop is ideal for an evening dinner with your family, picnicking on the well-landscaped lawn or sitting around the tables near the Pavilion Gardens café.

So grab a blanket and a basket full of food and enjoy the end of your day trip in Brighton in one of the most gorgeous parks in the area.

There is plenty of entertainment that goes on in these gardens as well, especially during the warmer months, including:

• Live music (South London Jazz Orchestra is one of the most popular)
• Talent acts
• Special guests

You can also enjoy visiting:

• The Chapel Royal
• The Ice Rink
• Max Miller Statue

The Royal Pavilion

If you aren’t too tired, consider walking the grounds of the Brighton Royal Pavilion, which was used as King George IV’s seaside retreat at one time. This building is a hot spot for weddings, proposals, and photographers, with more than 400,000 visitors stopping by and touring the inside every year. 

7. Before You Leave, Take a Picture of the Giant Clock Tower

• Address: 75-76 North Street, Brighton BN1 1ZA

The sun is starting to set, and you and the rest of the crew are wiped out, which means it is time to pack up and head home. But, before you go, you should swing by the Giant Clock Tower.

The Clock Tower, or Jubilee Clock Tower, is in the Center of Brighton and was built in 1888. This structure was designed to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee and continues to be a popular attraction in this British seaside city. 

The free-standing clock is 75 feet high and listed as a Grade II for its historical importance and architectural prevalence.

After taking pictures of this stunning, massive clock, walk five minutes down the road to see the infamous “donut” sculpture. The donut sculpture is titled Afloat and is a donut-shaped globe made from bronze with continents and coordinates etched on its surface. 

It is situated so that the lines of longitude face straight out to link the sky and sea. This sculpture is a popular art piece and is photographed more than almost any other attraction in the area.

Final Thoughts

Brighton, United Kingdom, is one of the most popular tourist attractions for visitors worldwide. It is stationed in a perfect location along the sea, providing many beautiful natural attractions and a place for businesses to flourish.

While the list of places to visit provided in our above travel guide will fill your day with adventure and even a little mystery, these aren’t the only fun things you can do in Brighton. If there are some things on our list that aren’t your cup of tea, look at all the other fabulous options available in this awe-inspiring city.

Catch a race at Brighton Racecourse, shop at Brighton Lanes, take photos of the West Pier, catch some live music at Brighton Centre, or enjoy the waterside Brighton Marina. If you’re up for venturing a little farther, head northwest to Devil’s Dyke for some outdoor fun or head up the eastern shore to Seven Sisters Country Park. Check them out and add them to your own Brighton itinerary.

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One Day in Brighton Itinerary: A Day Trip from London

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If you’re planning a Brighton itinerary, we don’t blame you! Whether you’ll be spending one day in Brighton or making a longer trip there, the city has so much to offer.

The quirky seaside city of Brighton is exceptionally popular among tourists from both the UK and abroad. Featuring beautiful Victorian and Georgian architecture, a striking beach, great food, and excellent nightlife, it’s not much of a surprise that Londoners, in particular, visit the city in droves during the summer. 

In this article, we’ll be outlining the practicalities of visiting the city, as well as some of the different tourist sites that you can check out there. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Brighton?

Brighton is easily one of the UK’s most unique and interesting cities, so it’s perhaps no surprise that hundreds of thousands of tourists from across the country visit every summer.

While Brighton’s reputation certainly precedes itself and there’s plenty to do and see in the historic seaside resort, it’s actually fairly small, with the Brighton and Hove area having a population just shy of 300,000. 

What’s more, central Brighton is a remarkably compact area. Many of the main tourist sites are within easy walking distance of one another, and those that aren’t can be reached fairly quickly using the local public bus network, with most routes operating frequently and reasonably late into the night. 

Anyway, you might be wondering how many days to spend in Brighton if you’re currently planning a day trip to the seaside city. Ultimately, the answer to this depends on what you want to get out of your time there. 

For instance, if you’re mostly aiming to visit Brighton’s main tourist destinations, you can do so pretty comfortably in a single day. However, you might end up feeling a bit rushed if you do so, especially if you’ll be heading there for the day from London . 

Consider the fact that only spending one day in a new place isn’t generally the best way to get a feel for it, so to speak.

So, if you’re the kind of traveller who likes to really immerse themselves in their destination and familiarise themselves with some of the more authentic, local highlights of a particular city, then you might want to aim to spend two or even three days in Brighton, instead of simply making a day trip to Brighton from London. 

Not only will this ensure that you have ample time to visit all of the city’s major landmarks, but it also affords you the opportunity to make a day trip to one of East Sussex’s stunning nature areas, like Devil’s Dyke or the Seven Sisters .

Alternatively, you can visit Lewes, a quaint and very historic town just north of the city if you want to spend a weekend in Brighton, which is home to a picturesque ruined castle and the former residence of Anne of Cleves, who was Henry VIII’s fourth wife.  

Getting To and Around Brighton 

Brighton is pretty much due south of London and, whether you’re planning on driving or travelling via public transit, is just a short journey away.

Direct train services operate to Brighton from and via London; the Gatwick Express from London Victoria is the fastest, generally taking a little under an hour to reach Brighton Station.

Alternatively, local Southern and Thameslink services are available, stopping at stations including Clapham Junction, London Bridge, and London Blackfriars along the way; while not quite as fast as the Gatwick Express, tickets for these services do tend to be somewhat cheaper. You can view train schedules here.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly way to get to Brighton from London, then a number of coach services also operate between the two cities, generally departing from the Victoria Coach Terminal and arriving at Pool Valley in Brighton, a coach terminus which is just behind the seafront.

Note that this journey is usually substantially longer, taking around 3 hours or so, and, unless you book well in advance, the amount you’ll save on travelling to Brighton via bus instead of the train is typically pretty minimal. You can view bus schedules here.

Or, if you have a car, then you might like to drive to Brighton; this journey usually takes between 60-90 minutes, depending on where in London you’re departing from. The drive itself is fairly straightforward. You can view car rental options here.

You can also take an organised Brighton day trip from London such as this full-day tour that spends time in Brighton as well as the Seven Sisters.

The city of Brighton is served by a fairly comprehensive network of bus routes, most of which run fairly frequent departures. If you’re planning on staying in central Brighton, then you might find that you can get away with walking everywhere; the train station is only 10 minutes or so from the beach, as well as a number of the city’s other, most prominent tourist attractions. 

With that being said, only a handful of the local buses run past midnight, so do keep this in mind if you’re planning on staying in Brighton overnight, or well outside the city centre. And, it is worth noting that the seaside city is notoriously hilly; so, if you have particular accessibility requirements, then getting from place to place on foot might be a challenge. 

Both Uber and the local taxi services make for viable alternatives to using public transport. Brighton might be small, but don’t be fooled; Uber prices in the city are significantly higher than they are for London, likely owing to the fact that the cost of living in Brighton is almost on par with that of the British capital and Uber journeys are generally far shorter.

Expect Uber journeys in Brighton to cost as much as ones that are twice as long in London would. 

1 Day in Brighton Itinerary 

If you’ll be seeing Brighton in one day, then there are a number of sites you’ll want to prioritise checking out. Below, you’ll find a list of the attractions that we recommend visiting during your day trip to Brighton. You can also choose to explore with a guide such as on this bike tour or this walking tour.

The Royal Pavilion

If you’re seeing Brighton in one day, then paying a visit to the city’s Royal Pavilion is pretty much essential. Built as a royal residence in the 1780s to the decorative tastes of King George IV, the complex is inspired heavily by Asian art and aesthetics, making for a pretty remarkable, and, frankly, bonkers interior (believe us; seeing is believing here). 

What’s more, the Brighton Pavilion is surrounded by some lovely gardens, which make for a fantastic place for a picnic in the warmer weather.

Upstairs in the building is a small museum, too, so you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the history of Brighton itself, in addition to taking in the regal atmosphere of the palace. This is really one of the best things to do in Brighton and you can buy tickets here.

Brighton Beach 

No Brighton day trip from London would be complete without a trip to the city’s iconic shingle beach (at least not in the summer!). In fact, without its beach, Brighton would be a very different place today; the city was first developed as sea swimming and salt water exposure more generally were both seen as ways of bolstering one’s physical and mental health. 

Prior to this, Brighton was little more than a fishing village; the Old Steine, which you’ll find just beyond the Brighton Pier, was actually used by fishermen to dry their nets at this time. However, wealthy Londoners heard about the fair weather and beach at Brighton and started flocking to the city in droves for some quality self-care.

The demand created for accommodation and entertainment by visitors to Brighton quickly transformed it into a bustling town, and then eventually into the charming city we know it as today. 

A word of warning, though; don’t feed the gulls! 

British Airways i360 

Located just off the Brighton seafront is the British Airways i360 tower, which gives visitors a panoramic aerial view of the city and surrounding countryside.

While it only opened in 2016, the tower has become an iconic part of the Brighton skyline and is very popular among visitors from London and abroad, too.

Note that, in summer, you might find that the wait for the i360 is longer than usual due to its popularity. You can pre-book tickets here.

North Laine/The Lanes 

Brighton’s labyrinthine North Laine and the Lanes are some of its most unique and memorable locations (despite the somewhat confusing names).

Both of these districts are rich with independent shops and excellent restaurants; the Lanes are closer to the sea and have a wider, more open feel, whereas North Laine is essentially a cramped bazaar, full of vintage shops and vegan eateries.

Indeed, if you’re visiting Brighton to sample the plant-based cuisine, then you’ll find plenty to whet your appetite in North Laine. The Lanes, on the other hand, being somewhat more historic, are still home to plenty of the city’s older, more established restaurants and retailers. Just try not to get lost!

Brighton Palace Pier 

It feels like Brighton is almost synonymous with its pier at this point. As perhaps one of the largest and best-preserved in the country, Brighton’s Palace Pier is home to rides, an arcade, food stalls and fish and chips shops, fortune tellers, and more!

Depending on the time of year that you visit, it’s also an excellent place to see starling murmurations taking place. The pier is a popular place for starlings to roost, and during the winter they can be seen flying in formation around the pier; it’s a remarkable, rare sight. 

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Located just next to the Royal Pavilion, the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is home to a surprisingly varied collection of artefacts and artworks from different historical periods. 

Naturally, some of the collection focuses on Brighton’s local history, making it an excellent destination for visitors who want to learn as much about the city as they can. 

The Undercliff

Beginning around the Brighton Marina and extending all the way past the nearby village of Rottingdean, the Brighton Undercliff Walk is perfect for getting away from the crowds and enjoying some stunning views of the sea in any weather. 

Simply head out to the Marina (which is also a great place to get your shopping done, if need be) and continue along the path that follows the cliffs.

You can pretty much go as far as you like; geology enthusiasts in particular will likely enjoy the walk, as it lets you get up close and personal with the chalk cliffs that are so unique to England’s southern coast. 

Devil’s Dyke 

If you have the time and want to take in a beautiful nature spot while visiting Brighton, then consider visiting Devil’s Dyke to round out your day.

Don’t be put off by the foreboding name; Devil’s Dyke is a stunning valley located in the South Downs just outside Brighton. You can travel there from the city by bus and take in the stunning views once you’ve arrived. 

Brighton Pride 

If you’ll be visiting Brighton for the day in August, then you may want to consider checking out the city’s iconic Pride festival. Usually falling over a weekend in early August, Brighton Pride is the UK’s biggest Pride gathering and attracts visitors from across the country and even overseas. 

Note that the festival can get pretty crowded and a bit rowdy, so it might not be for everyone. However, if you’re up for a bit of a party, then you really can’t go wrong here! 

Have 2 or 3 Days in Brighton?

If you’re planning on spending 2 days in Brighton or 3 days in Brighton, then you might be wondering what else you should check out during your time in the city. 

I would actually suggest going on a day trip or two for the second or third day of your Brighton itinerary. The nearby village of Lewes is incredibly quaint and charming; combine this with its beautiful castle and the Anne of Cleves house, and it’s basically paradise for history lovers. 

The mighty chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters are a little over an hour from Brighton, too; they’re easy to access via the bus and are the perfect place to go for a longer walk, especially during the warmer weather.

Note that, just behind the bus stop for the Seven Sisters, you’ll find Friston Forest, which is also a fantastic place for a stroll. 

Where to Stay in Brighton

The Southern Belle – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Brighton is perfect for mid-range visitors to this coastal city. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from, a great on-site restaurant and bar and a wonderful breakfast on offer each morning. Click here to check availability

Red Brighton Blue – Located within a stone’s throw from the iconic Brighton Pier, this is an excellent base if you’re spending the night in this lovely city. They have a number of comfortable rooms to choose from along with breakfast, parking and a terrace. Click here to check availability

Q Square – If you’d like a self-catering option in Brighton, then this aparthotel is a great choice. They have a range of different flats to choose from – all fully furnished with everything you may need – along with plenty of other amenities and a great location. Click here to check availability

Seadragon Backpackers – Budget and solo travellers to sunny Brighton will love this convivial hostel in the centre of the city. They have a range of dorms available, great common areas and fantastic amenities to ensure you have a great stay. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brighton hotels!

Brighton is arguably one of the most interesting and dynamic cities to visit in the UK. This can make putting together a Brighton itinerary somewhat challenging, in fact; how do you know which spots to visit and which to leave out? Fortunately, we’ve done that for you – all you need to do is have a great time! 

Are you planning to visit Brighton? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

One Day in Bristol Itinerary: A Day Trip from London

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Is England Expensive? An England Trip Cost Guide

About Emily Marty

Emily is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, she is currently based in the UK. She enjoys exploring Northern & Western Europe and Southeast Asia and has a bit of a thing for islands in particular.

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The Best Brighton Day Trip Itinerary

Travel , UK | October 3, 2023

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Colourful, alternative and packed with young people: Brighton quickly became my new favourite UK city when I first visited. Here’s my brilliant Brighton day trip itinerary for first-time visitors.

While Brighton’s attractions are numerous and diverse, one of the best things to do in Brighton is simply to take an aimless walk around the city and soak up the atmosphere, which vibrates with a contagious energy.

The south east seaside destination has just enough grit to hold appeal for edgy folk in their 20s and 30s, but it still has the classic British beach attractions that have made day trips to Brighton popular with Brits since the 18th century.

The LGBTQ capital of the UK feels like a place where anything can happen .

The city wears its personality on its sleeve and it’s reflected right back in its residents’ faces.

I spent my entire day trip to Brighton gushing about how much I loved the place!

Seriously, can I just move there?

What to do on a Brighton day trip

Here’s what to see in Brighton on a day trip. I’ve included the usual tourist attractions, photogenic places in Brighton and quirky spots that will make your day trip to Brighton super memorable.

1. Walk along Brighton Pier

Brighton Palace Pier is a must-see if you’re only in Brighton for a day trip, so head there to start your day in Brighton.

One of the most photographed piers in Europe, this 1,722ft long Victorian pier epitomises everything that’s golden about a day at the seaside.

Grab fish and chips and wander the fairground attractions, two arcades and various stalls on the pier.

This is one of the best free things to do in Brighton. You don’t have to pay to people watch there!

If you’re enjoying a Brighton day trip with kids, you can take them to the indoor soft play on the pier. Ideal for rainy days!

Get ideas for more things to do in Brighton with kids on Zena’s Suitcase’s site.

2. Sunbathe on Brighton Beach

Brighton’s beach might not be the comfiest on the old bum bones – there are about 614,600,000 pebbles lining the shore – but it’s popular among sunbathers in the summertime.

You can rent a deck chair and spend the day chilling and watching the waves if you so desire – or do some water sports if you’re feeling brave. 

Book a jet ski ride to kick your day in Brighton up a notch here , or book a powerboat ride here .

There are loads of bars, cafes and other facilities lining the seafront.

Don’t miss the famous colourful beach huts, which are over in Hove!

3. Take a stroll along the Promenade

Brighton’s seafront promenade is probably the loveliest I’ve been to in Britain.

As well as lots of bars and restaurants with outdoor seating that give the city a real cosmopolitan vibe, there are galleries in the Artists’ Quarter that spill out onto the paving from the arches.

You can pick up unique souvenirs here and there are plenty of free activities to keep kids busy, including a basketball court.

You’ll also find a free fishing museum , ice cream shops, seafood stalls, children’s play areas and of course the carousel.

You could easily spend the best part of an afternoon soaking up Brighton’s seafront attractions!

4. Pose with the Upside Down House

The peculiar Brighton tourist attraction on the promenade is amusing to take a photo with, but the real intrigue is inside this curious structure!

Within the aquamarine house that’s turned on its head; you’ll find the ‘UK’s first inverted photo experience’.

The Upside Down House is a museum of illusions that’s brilliant if you’re looking for a rainy day activity in Brighton.

This is one of the most fun places to go in Brighton with kids, and you’ll come away with great pictures to remember your day trip to Brighton.

5. Reach high on a flight on the Brighton i360

The Brighton i360 is a unique attraction in Brighton for all ages.

Buy a ticket and enter a futuristic glass pod, then soar 415ft into the sky to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Brighton’s cityscape from the top of the observation tower.

There’s an onboard bar where you can order a sparkling wine and an exhibition room back on the ground, which details the creation of the tower.

You’ll need to book your i360 flight online in advance. You can do this here .

The attraction also has an open-air rollerblading rink, so you can get your skates on and have some fun there too!

6. Visit the Royal Pavilion

This might be one of the best places to go in Brighton for photographers, but unfortunately all the scaffolding meant the Royal Pavilion wasn’t looking its best during our day out in Brighton!

Built as a seaside retreat for King George IV, this historic house was later redone with inspiration from Indian architecture.

These days it radiates Regency grandeur with an oriental aesthetic.

While it’s magnificent to take in from the outside, you can also book tickets online in advance to explore the interior of this grand structure.

There’s an imposing banqueting room, royal bedrooms and a music room complete with pagodas where Rossini performed in 1823.

7. Wander along North Laine

If you’re planning a day trip to Brighton, you cannot miss North Laine !

This vibrant mecca for the alternative is a melting pot of colour, bohemian style and gastronomy. It’s a hive of activity and is viewed as the cultural hub of Brighton.

Join the outlandishly dressed throngs for a stroll around the countless independent shops, boutiques and galleries, then pull up a pew in the street for a light bite and enjoy watching life unfold in what has to be one of England’s most fascinating streets.

It’s Brighton’s diversity that made me fall in love with the city, and nowhere is it better epitomised than North Laine.

Saturdays get very busy on North Laine, so if you’re visiting Brighton on a day trip at the weekend you should take this into consideration.

TIP: Get around Brighton with ease via City Sightseeing hop-on-hop-off bus tour . It’s a simple way to see more of Brighton if you’re only there for 24 hours.

8. Go shopping for vintage gems

If you’re into vintage fashion, Brighton is your spirit city.

North Laine is jam-packed with overflowing vintage shops and antiques bazaars.

If you’re ever lost for things to do in Brighton when it’s raining you can easily lose a whole morning wandering the shelves of Brighton’s vintage treasure troves.

Some of my favourites are Snooper’s Paradise , To Be Worn Again and Waiste Vintage .

Take a deep breath and get ready to rummage.

I actually got a headache because I was so overwhelmed with the sheer quantity of stuff in these shops and felt like my eyes couldn’t possibly take it all in at once!

9. Explore The Lanes

Brighton’s Lanes are a rabbit’s warren of narrow streets lined with independent shops, pubs and eateries.

Once a tiny fishing town, this is another of the top places to visit in Brighton, whether it’s your first visit or your thirtieth.

Walking around the Lanes is a bit like stepping back in time in the best possible way.

If you’re in the market for some one-of-a-kind jewellery, I highly recommend a trip to the Lanes’ jewellery quarter.

We went early in the morning when the Arabic jewellers were finishing their coffee and catching up on the cobbles before opening their shops.

10. Hunt out Brighton’s street art

No modern city would be complete without its fair share of street art and Brighton is no exception.

Among the rainbow coloured houses and vibrant shopping streets, you’ll find a plethora of incredible wall murals and less curated graffiti that conveys the city’s bold character.

Some of the most well known street art areas in Brighton are The Prince Albert Pub on Trafalgar Street, with its lurid depiction’s of some of Britain’s late great artists, and Gloucester Road, Kensington Street and Orange Row.

I reckon Brighton’s street art rivals Bristol’s – what do you think?

11. Visit Brighton’s top museums

If your day trip to Brighton isn’t blessed with dry weather you can take shelter and find amusement in some of the city’s museums and galleries.

Brighton Museum in Pavilion Gardens is a must-visit. It’s open all week except Mondays.

There’s also the Crane Kalman Brighton Gallery for photography lovers, Hidden Gallery for contemporary art and the Brighton Toy and Model Museum which will appeal to children and adults alike.

You’ll find lots of small independent galleries around the city. Just wander in and you might find something truly special!

12. See Brighton’s Marina

Did you know that Brighton’s boasts one of Europe’s largest floating Marinas?

Whether you drive along the coast or stroll along the beach towards the area, Brighton’s Marina is worth visiting.

Buy lunch in one of the many cafes and restaurants and browse the high-end shops that line the attractive harbour.

There’s free parking, an outdoor ping pong and chess tables so you can even have fun at the Marina if you’re visiting Brighton on a budget.

If you take your bike along for your day in Brighton, you can cycle along Brighton’s coastline and finish at Newhaven & Seaford beach, where you can jump on the train back to the city.

13. Experience Brighton’s nightlife

Brighton offers visitors a great night out whether you’re there with friends, family or your significant other.

There are clubs tucked away in the beachfront arches, stylish bars for date night and plenty of traditional but quirky pubs rising from corners around the city.

Some of our favourite watering holes are Patterns on the beachfront during the day, Seven Stars for funky late night vibes and The Mash Tun for a decent pint.

The World’s End is a unique pub in Brighton, where you can play retro arcade games as you sip!

For a top-notch night out in Brighton that will introduce you to some new friends, why not join a local bar crawl ?

14. Extending your day trip to Brighton?

From Brighton, you can easily visit nearby Cambridge and Greenwich on a day trip. Book your adventure here .

Alternatively, set sail to the Isle of White !

Where to eat on your Brighton day trip

Trying to recommend the best place to eat in Brighton isn’t easy. With more bars and restaurants per head than anywhere else in the UK bar London, Brighton has a plethora of excellent eateries so you’ll be spoiled for choice when your stomach starts rumbling.

We had mouthwatering Middle Eastern wraps at Lavash on North Laine , which I’d definitely recommend if you’re into that sort of cuisine.

It took me right back to my time in Dubai !

For daytime light bites along Brighton seafront, try West Beach Bar & Kitchen .

They have a beachfront terrace that’s great for watching the world go by and their fish goujons are delicious.

If you’re a carb queen like me, let me direct you to NuPosto . We had a beautiful Italian meal there on the night of our arrival in Brighton.

If you love South Indian food and craft beer, you HAVE to eat at Curry Leaf Cafe in the Lanes.

They’ve won loads of awards and the kooky decor gives the place a wonderfully laid-back feel.

Their Thali trays look incredible, but we were just after something to keep us going for the long drive back Up North so we ordered some open naan wraps.

They were SO tasty – I had paneer and Tom had tandoori chicken.

If you’d like to support some of Brighton’s many independent foodie businesses, book a foodie walking tour which will take you to visit the city’s best-loved independent food producers and street-food vendors.

The tour I’ve linked above includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Got a sweet tooth? This doughnut tour or this chocolate tour will satisfy that!

How to get to Brighton

If you’re planning a day trip to Brighton from London, you can travel via National Express or Southern Rail.

Where to stay in Brighton if you have more than a day

We were hosted at the City Centre ibis and couldn’t fault it.

It’s right next to the station and a quick walk to the Lanes and seafront, so the location is perfect if you only have two days in Brighton.

We had a partial sea-view, the staff were great and their hygiene standards were flawless.

Plus, I just love those grab n’ go breakfasts… in my world, that means sending Tom down to grab them so I can go back to bed.

If you’re after a luxury hotel in Brighton, you can’t go wrong with Malmaison Hotels – but always book direct on their website because they usually have great deals that are only available there.

You can search for your ideal Brighton accommodation using the Booking.com map below.

If you’re planning a day trip to Brighton or visiting the city while exploring England on a trip from overseas, you’re in for a real treat.

I t’s a bohemian city where diversity is celebrated with vigour, and I think every city in the UK could be improved if it took a leaf out of Brighton’s book.

I hope this mini Brighton day trip itinerary has given you loads of inspiration to find the best things to do in Brighton and top places to head to on your visit.

I just wish the city wasn’t such a long drive from Sunderland – or I’d be there every weekend!

More UK travel guides you might find useful

Bristol city guide

Bath city guide

Best things to do in Scarborough

Liverpool weekend guide

Newcastle weekend trip guide

Girls weekend in Manchester guide

Berwick-upon-Tweed trip planning guide

What to do in Leeds on a weekend break

How to have a perfect day out in Knaresborough

Glamping sites in Northumberland

Unique accommodation for couples in Northumberland

All UK travel guides

Use my Travel Resources page to find the best deals on your Brighton day trip

Click here to join my UK Travel Deals group on Facebook. We share lots of great ways to save money on UK trips and fun ideas for days out and places to visit in the UK.

Pin this to your UK travel planning board on Pinterest !

A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s Day Trip to Brighton Guide

Today I want to share my guide a day trip to Brighton with you. This seaside resort city in East Sussex is a great place to spend a day soaking up the sun on the south coast of England. From wide beaches to a fun pleasure pier and great shopping, Brighton has a lot to offer visitors. Add to that vibrant street art and a delicious food scene, and a Brighton day trip is always a good idea.

Day Trip to Brighton

Do you ever feel like time is going by too quickly? I could have sworn I’d traveled to Brighton in the past year, but my last trip to the East Sussex seaside was three years ago.

When I realized that, I was so astounded I decided it was time to take a day trip to Brighton. And now I’m here and I’m glad to be back.

How to Get to Brighton

Less than an hour by train from the UK capital, this funky city on the English Channel is one of the easiest day trips from London (not to mention one of the most exciting).

Trains depart regularly from multiple stations in London and arrive in the heart of Brighton.

Things to Do on a Day Trip to Brighton

Brighton has long been associated with hedonism, from the days of George IV’s indulgent Royal Pavilion to the modern pleasure piers stretching their arms into the sea.

And that’s to say nothing of its non-traditional contrast to London’s more straight-laced culture.

North Laine

The first thing I’m excited to do on my day trip to Brighton is explore the vibrant colors and soak up the off-beat vibe. My starting point is North Laine, one of the best places to see Brighton at its brightest.

First I come across streets full of houses so colorful I wonder if I’m in Notting Hill . Then I stumble upon tiny lanes with overgrown gardens that remind me of London’s mews .

Soon I arrive at the pedestrianized shopping streets. Contents push out into the road as stores offer everything from retro dresses to vintage sunglasses. This place is ripe for retail indulgence.

When I’m done exploring North Laine, I continue my day trip to Brighton by squeezing into The Lanes.

This warren of alleys is a treasure trove of fudge shops, boutiques, vintage jewelry stores, and cool cafes awaiting discovery.

One of them is a rebellious coffee shop. I stop to fortify myself with a cappuccino, hoping the staff members don’t kick me out for being too mainstream (they don’t).

I love the decor—mannequin legs double as table legs here—and the coffee is every bit as good it looks.

Caffeinated, I continue my Brighton day trip by working my way through The Lanes. I unearth everything from vintage gems at jewelry shops to confections that look like they walked straight out of a Dracula-themed burlesque show.

But it’s not all irreverent here. I stop for lunch at English’s of Brighton, a seafood restaurant steeped in tradition. Oysters from Lindisfarne go down a treat as I sit at the bar chatting to the friendly staff.

The Royal Pavilion

And then my day trip to Brighton continues with a visit to the city’s most famous attraction: the Royal Pavilion.

This opulent 18th-century pleasure palace delights inside and out, never ceasing to awe me with its sumptuous interiors and meringue domes.

I spend most of my time in the gardens, taking in the purple hues and admiring the imperial overstretch of the flower beds. Even the greenery embraces the rebellious culture here.

The Seaside in Brighton

From the Royal Pavilion my day trip to Brighton takes me to the seaside, the city’s main geographic event.

Carnivalesque Brighton Pier furnishes as much sensory overload as ever, and the bright tents and shops are beacons of beachfront cheer.

On the site of the historic West Pier, which succumbed to a fire in 2003, a new attraction has risen. Marks Barfield Architects, who designed the London Eye, has brought Brighton the British Airways i360.

Designed to offer the same kind of gradually unfolding views as its London counterpart but in a defiantly different format, the i360 is unique to Brighton.

The world’s tallest moving observation tower, it glides up to 450 feet (138 meters) for 360-degree views of the city and surrounding coastline.

I get a sneak peek on a press preview, riding the doughnut-shaped observation deck up and down the towering pole. Classic English weather means I don’t get the views I hope for, but I can still see the beach and seafront as I ride to the foggy top.

Photography is tricky due to glare, which is a major downside for me as a travel blogger. But on a brighter day with better views I’m sure I would enjoy seeing the East Sussex coast around Brighton and Hove.

In fact, I’ve already received an email offering me a free second visit, as everyone that experiences this type of less-than-stellar visibility on the i360 is promised.

Back at the bottom, I leave the waterfront and get ready to depart the city . I’ve had a great time rediscovering this place, and it’s nice that my day trip to Brighton has allowed me to revisit some of my favorite places and experience new ones.

I just hope it doesn’t take me three more years to come back again. If it does, I might have to spend 2 days in Brighton instead of just one. There’s so much to do here that I could use more time to experience the best of what the city has to offer.

If you visit, you can read more about the city in the Time Out Brighton Shortlist . You can get it here .

What would you do on a day trip to Brighton?

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22 Comments on Lady’s Day Trip to Brighton Guide

Beautiful pictures! Makes me want to go back for another visit too!

Thanks, Phoebe! I hope you can soon.

It’s a place that holds so many childhood memories for me.

That’s great! I can imagine it’s a fun place to visit as a child.

I went to brighton a few years ago for work and I remember it as a grey, really windy town. But somehow I found it very charming in spite of the terrible January weather. But lately I’ve been seeing a wonderful side of Brighton in lots of travel blogs and magazines so I hope we can organize a day trip during our next trip to London!

I’m glad you’re up for giving it another chance! I’ve been to Brighton in January before, too. It can be a bit grim in the winter. Hopefully you can return in warmer weather and enjoy your time there more.

So appreciate your blog — had a wonderful day trip down to Brighton! I’m also an American expat living in London with a passion for exploring. 😊

Looking forward to checking off the other towns you suggest for day trips!

Amazing pictures. We want to travel in three weeks for our first time to Canterbury, Brighton and London. Thank you for your wonderfull blog.

You’re welcome! I’m glad the timing worked well for your trip. Have a great time!

This post is so lovely and comprehensive! You really speak about all the coolest places in Brighton 😀 It’s a city I really love, and I want to try out more little restaurants and cafés when I go back. I’ll keep the Marwood Coffee Shop in mind, that cappuccino looks awesome! Also, I never fail to visit the Pier even if the weather isn’t great – I love Brighton beach, although the cobbles hurt the feet so much!

Glad you enjoyed the post and got some good inspiration from it!

So fun! You inspire me. I’m studying abroad in Wales right now. I want to spend more time taking day trips solo.

Thanks! I’m glad you’re inspired.

The last time I was in Brighton was November of 2013 and my goal was to get a photo from the south side of the Pavilion for that classic view. However, there was some sort of temporary tent/room built on the lawn completely blocking the view. I’d love to go back and get that photo I’ve been wanting for so long.

Aw, that’s too bad you couldn’t get the shot you wanted. I hope you can go back someday and take it.

I lived in Brighton for four years and miss it so much! We recently went up the i360 too and got lucky as it was a gorgeous sunny day. I agree with you about the glare though – tricky to get photos!

That’s great that you got sunshine. My boyfriend went last night and saw the sunset from the top. It looked amazing. I will have to go back on a sunny day!

I am planning to go this Aug.. Do you drive from London to Brighton? How do you commute from one to another?

I took the train, but it’s really up to you.

Lovely photos – I live in Brighton and know it’s not easy to make it look pretty in the rain! But you have. Thanks for visiting!

You’re welcome! It was a great trip.

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England , In One Day

Brighton, uk…in one day.

When you live in a city as big as London, it’s easy to forget that there are so many different terrains within a short distance. A quick train ride can get you to old towns, hilly walks, sprawling countryside, and even the beach! To the east is Margate . To the west, Cornwall. And a measly one hour train ride south? Brighton. A day trip to Brighton from London is an incredible thing to do, whether you are a local or just visiting for a short period of time. The city offers its own unique culture, plenty of yummy food options, and lots of fun. And did I mention it’s easily accessible, and therefore the perfect day trip from London?

The sun hit the Southeast corner of the UK for what felt like the first time in a long time one weekend, so my friend and I hopped on a train and made our way to Brighton for the day. We planned on a day in the sun mixed with a bit of shopping and exploring and ended up doing just that! One slight  sunburn and some hefty homewares shopping receipts later, we stumbled back to London exhausted. Not before squeezing in the best of Brighton in a day, though!

Brighton offers plenty of options for people with all different kinds of interests. It’s an extremely versatile city which, at the forefront, is a beach town. Here are some recommendations for a quick day trip to Brighton:

Before you even think about doing anything else, head for Brighton Beach

From the train station, follow the masses and head straight to the coast. You are visiting Brighton Beach, after all! The beach is rocky, so not the best for lying out on towels, but chairs for hire are pretty cheap – and incredibly adorable. Sit back, enjoy the sea salt air, and relax. This is when you can finally take a deep breath and soak it all in – you’re not in London anymore!

Play like a kid on Brighton pier

Brighton Pier is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Brighton. It reminds me so much of the U.S. boardwalks with the tiny amusement rides and massive arcades. You can’t help but go back to being a kid with all of that fun (and candy) right in front of you!

Even if you’re not interested in the amusements, the pier is still a great walk when you are visiting Brighton for the day. Nestled between rides and arcades are food stalls, candy shops selling homemade fudge, and souvenir shops so you can mark your time spent in Brighton. There are also lounge chairs which are free to use on the pier, so you can sit down and soak up the sun, watching people run around the beach without physically needed to be on the beach.

Check out our list of the most Instagrammable spots in London!

Visit the royal palace.

The Royal Palace is Brighton’s number one tourist attraction, I assume, and I can see why. It’s stunning! The Eastern influence is not something you see very often in this area, so it’s a pleasant surprise to turn a corner and see the palace. I have yet to go inside (there is a small fee), but even walking around the outside and gardens is such a treat. It was such a nice day when we were there that I think every grassy patch had a group picnicking or lounging on it!

We love these books for UK Travel Inspiration!

Lunch in The Lanes

No day trip to Brighton is complete without a visit to The Lanes. This is by far my favorite part of Brighton, and one of the places that feels a bit different with each visit. The narrow streets and winding alleys are filled with shops and restaurants to pop into and explore. Find a hidden restaurant and sit down for a nice, long meal. We chose Olive Grove , which was an adorable Mediterranean restaurant with plenty of outdoor seating. We took a seat in the sun, ordered some white wine and tapas, and honestly could have stayed there all day!

Shop ’til you drop in The Lanes & beyond

“Brighton” and “shopping” together is a great concept. With a mix quirky boutiques and high street stores, it’s the perfect place for shopping without the London crowds. I had major success with the homeware stores – England at Home and HomeSense . However, vintage finds are also extremely popular. If that’s your thing, I love the look of Snooper’s Attic  (clothing & accessories) and Wright & Co. (furniture & home). The best thing about places like Brighton, though, is the random boutiques you fall in love with. There were so many cute shops that I didn’t even manage to catch the names of. If you see something you like, just pop in – you never know which shops will surprise you.

Finish the day at the pub

What better way to finish a day trip than with a drink at the pub? One of my favorite things about living in the UK is finding a pub in every location I visit. There’s something so incredible about pub culture and it’s amazing to experience the atmosphere and history behind a pub in each town. It’s also so much fun to find pubs with unique concepts, like the environmentally friendly Earth & Stars in Brighton.

Go on, take a day trip to Brighton this weekend!

Isn’t Brighton just the cutest? It’s the perfect day trip from London for a couple, a group of friends, or even a solo traveler. There is plenty to do and see, but the best thing is to just wander. Make the most of your day trip to Brighton by enjoying it in the way that YOU see fit! That’s what I did, and it has left me wanting to go back for more!

Getting There

Brighton is easily accessible by train, which is part of the reason why it is the perfect day trip from London. Direct trains go from London Victoria, London St. Pancras, and London Bridge frequently – plus from multiple local train stations, such as Clapham Junction. For train timetables and to purchase tickets, visit Trainline .

Turn your day trip to Brighton into a weekend trip to Brighton

Brighton also has a stellar nightlife scene, so if you are able to turn your day trip into a weekend trip, you won’t be disappointed. Wake up the next morning and wander a bit further along to Hove for a slightly different taste of the English seaside. This is where you can also find plenty of those charming, photogenic beach huts you always see people posting about on Instagram (admit it – you know what I’m talking about!).

If you are feeling the day trip idea, but it’s not looking like a perfect beach day, a day trip to Richmond  is even closer to London and it still feels like a completely different world. Or you can make the most of a day in London with a trip to the Churchill War Rooms and a tour of Westminster!

Don’t forget your UK Day Trip Essentials!

Have you been to Brighton for the day? Do you have any additional recommendations?

Let us know in the comments below!

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4 thoughts on “ Brighton, UK…in One Day ”

Oh I love this! Your post really made me miss Brighton. It’s such a cool and colourful place. I lived there for three months when I first started travelling and haven’t been back since 2009. Definitely need to make a visit happen some time soon.

I loved Brighton! I went there on a day trip from London too. I had so much fun playing on the pier even if I was alone and probably looked super strange haha. I’d really like to go back!

This made my research so much easier. thank you!

I’m glad you liked my home town. I’ve lived here 66yrs and love it!! Next time go visit the inside of the Royal Pavilion, it’s stunning!! We also have great parks, Preston Park is fabulous in summer!!

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Day Trip to Brighton for Adults

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

Like most Londoners I love Brighton. It is the quintessential English seaside town. Just over an hour away by train, it is London’s cool little sister. Everything is quite close together so it is easy to explore without a car. There are loads of fantastic food and drinking options and some great things to see. 

Brighton and nearby Hove merged to become one city in 2000. Hove is Brighton’s slightly quieter neighbor and it is here that you will see the famous beach huts and the best collection of Regency Architecture.

Nearby Rottingdean is also worth a visit. The city is quite compact and can easily be explored on foot. The key tourism sights of the Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and the British Airways i360 are an easy stroll from each other.

You will also find fish and chips restaurants at least every 500 meters as well as extremely appealing bakeries. 

A day trip to Brighton is a highlight of living in or visiting London .

• Day Trip to Brighton – How to get there and how to Get Around

Table of Contents

What to do on a Day Trip to Brighton

1. brighton’s royal pavilion, 2. brighton pier, 3. brighton beach, 4. take the clifftop walk between brighton pier and rottingdean, 5. appreciate the architecture, 6. wander the lanes, 7. drink wine, 8. soak up the brighton art scene, 9. take a tour, 10. see what’s on, 11. make the most of the food , brighton boutique hotels, who paid for what in this day trip to brighton post.

The easiest way to get from London to Brighton is by train . Trains run out of Kings Cross, Victoria and Clapham Junction.

It will take about 90 minutes from Kings Cross and about 65 minutes from Clapham Junction. Trains run quite frequently eg 2-3 an hour.

Once you get to Brighton station it is an easy short walk to the Lanes and the Pier.  Brighton is a very walkable town. Most of the key areas such as the Lanes, the Pavilion, and the seafront are all very short walks.

You can also hire a bike to get to the slightly further distances of Rottingdean. There are local buses that can take you around Brighton, to Hove and to areas such as the South Downs.

The actual buses are often named after some of the city’s most famous residents.

The Royal Pavilion is quite a shock when you first see it. It really does look like it has been airlifted out of Istanbul and sent to Brighton.

This seaside palace was created by John Nash and is now one of the most famous buildings in the UK. The Royal Pavilion is stunning front and back so make sure you check out both sides.

B efore you enter the Pavilion there is a lovely garden in front of the main entrance. The garden in the foreground and the pavilion in the background make for a lovely photo.

Once inside there are displays of furniture and art inside. If you are into that kind of thing then head on in. Otherwise, the best bit of the Pavilion is the exterior and you can use the money you’ve saved for fish and chips.

Or The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery are conveniently located next door to the Royal Pavilion if you’re keen on more culture. 

⇒ Brighton is also near Eastbourne – if you like a cute English seaside town check out the Top 10 Things to do in Eastbourne.

No Brighton Day Trip would be complete without heading to Brighton Pier. This is perhaps the most famous pier in the UK and it is LOUD. Wander down the pier and try your hand at some of the amusement parlors and get some old-fashioned photos.

If you have any room grab some cotton candy (although I do think Brighton has much better food options on offer). If you are visiting on a weekend it will be crammed with people. There are many games to play and rides to go on if you are so inclined.

Otherwise, walk down and walk back and get yourself to the Lanes . But don’t forget to get a photo where you stick your head through one of the classic beachside frames before you go.

Travel Expert Tip: I f you are around Brighton at sunset the burnt-out old pier makes a great photo

⇒ Looking for another great coastal town in England? Check out this post on the 12 Unmissable Things to do in Newquay

Having said you cannot leave Brighton without walking down the pier I am going to have to add in the same for Brighton Beach . The first thing to know about Brighton Beach is that even though it is called a beach it does not have any sand – it has pebbles so you definitely want shoes.

It also means there is a booming business in renting out stripey deck chairs etc as lying on pebbles is not a comfortable experience. You can either walk along the beach – there is an easy path that is dotted with bars, museums, and restaurants – or stop and enjoy the beach in one of the comfortable and photogenic chairs.

This is also a great spot for taking photos of Brighton Pier. 

There are 2 options on how to walk along the beautiful path between Brighton Pier and Rottingdean . Take the clifftop walk for more spectacular scenery or walk along the beachfront to savor the smells and sounds of the sea.

The white cliffs are very photogenic. Or hire a bike and ride along the seafront.  Rottingdean is most famous for being the hometown of acclaimed author Rudyard Kipling.

It also has some brilliant fish and chips at Smugglers . If the weather is good pop in and order your fish and chips takeaway and have a seat on the beach. If it is a bad day there is a small area to eat in.

The servings are huge and I highly recommend the haddock and chips.

Brighton is famous for its wonderful examples of Regency Architecture. The streets around Brunswick Square in Hove have some of the best examples as does the Royal Crescent in Brighton.

Hove is also home to the famous colorful beach huts. 

Check out the Duke of York Picture House , an art-house cinema where you can enjoy a glass of wine with your movie in a beautiful art deco style building.

It lays claim to being the oldest continuously running cinema in Britain. The cinema is in the Lanes and easy to spot as it has a pair of Can-Can legs jutting out from the building.

⇒ Heading to London? Check out my posts on 13 Unusual Experiences in London , the best London Food Tours , my virtual London Travel Blog , some great Earlsfield restaurants , 14 Things to do in Notting Hill , restaurants near Clapham Junction and Victoria Station restaurants , 16 Famous Landmarks in Europe , a mad hatter afternoon tea party and a day trip to Brighton , 67 Fascinating Facts about London , 18 Landmarks of London from a local, 15 Places to see Sunsets in London , 9 Places to watch the Sunrise in London , 10 Bridges in London Not to Miss and Cotswolds tour from London options.

For me, wandering the lanes is the highlight of a Brighton Day Trip. The Lanes and North Lane are a series of small mostly pedestrianized streets not far from the Brighton foreshore.

They are populated with numerous restaurants, shops, cafes, bars, and some street art. There are some great vintage shops like Finders Keepers and if you are after a sex toy there are quite a few options available .

They do tend towards more independent owners in the heart of the Lanes which makes for lots of interesting shops and food experiences. Snoopers Paradise has every type of vintage article you could imagine.

Or try one of the UK’s last standing fragrance houses the wonderfully named Pecksniffs Fragrance House . 

The area is also known for its selection of adult shops. She Said Erotic Boutique is on the more female end of the spectrum here.

Finally, Brighton has such a sweet tooth and some fantastic stores that are all about treats. For a real treat try Roly’s Fudge Pantry . 

When it comes to days out in Brighton for adults wine is going to be high on the list. The 2 best wine bars in Brighton are Ten Green Bottles and Fourth and Church.  Both hold regular wine tastings so check out their schedules on their websites.

There are also several wineries near Brighton including Court Garden , Albourne Estate , Rathfinny Wine Estates, Bluebell Vineyard and Ridgeview Wine Estates . 

Exploring the local vibrant art scene is a must for a Brighton Day Trip Itinerary designed for adults. Guided tours are on offer but Brighton Tourism has done a fantastic guide to the best street art in town – and you can explore Brighton at the same time.

Galleries are everywhere in Brighton – particularly in The Lanes and North Laine and along the seafront. The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery cover an eclectic mix of art.

And for photographers head down to the Hove beach hut for some shots.

There are several options for tours in Brighton. Brighton Blue Badge Guides are highly reliable or you could try taking a cycling tour of Brighton.

For something more relaxed try one of the many Brighton Walking Tours on offer like the Secrets of The Lanes walking tour.

Brighton loves a festival and attending one of them is one of the most fun things to do in Brighton. Here are some of the key ones:

• Brighton Festival – 3 weeks in May
• Brighton Fringe – May
• Kemp Town Carnival – June and free
• St Ann’s Well Gardens Spring Festival – May and free
• Brighton Naked Bike Ride!
• The Beach of the zombies’ zombie march – October
• Gay Pride – August

If you’re heading to Brighton for the day make sure you start it with an empty stomach. If you’re looking for some great coffee and breakfast when you arrive in Brighton check out Grow 40 or The Flour Pot .

If you’re after something sweet grab one of the amazing cakes at Pelicano .  Brighton has every cuisine possible on offer. Terre a Terre offers great vegetarian food and is next door to a great Indian restaurant called Indian Summer .

For Italian head to Edendum – who also offers great lunch and early evening meal deals. 

The Sunday roast is another British classic and foody Brighton is a fantastic place to tuck into one.

Two of the best pubs for a great roast dinner are the Earth and Stars and Lion and Lobster . Make sure you ask for a Yorkshire pudding – they are often served only with roast beef which I completely don’t understand as I believe they go with absolutely everything.

For fish and chips head down to Brighton Beach. There are loads of options along the seafront but a great classic is The Regency . Not only has it been open since the 1930s it is in a prime location with great views of the English Channel, the i360 wheel and the old pier. 

There are some fantastic UK City and Sightseeing passes which offer free entry to all must-see attractions & great deals.

As you can see, there is A LOT of things to do in Brighton so one day trip might not cut it. If that’s how you feel after reading this post don’t worry as Brighton has loads of interesting boutique hotels.

The Oriental is one of the original boutique hotels in Brighton. This quirky hotel offers the opposite of a chain hotel experience and has a great location.

⇒ Read reviews on TripAdvisor ⇒ Book Now

Brighton loves a themed hotel. Hotel Pelirocco contends that it is Brighton’s sauciest boutique hotel. And it’s Rock and Roll hotel. Some big claims. There are 19 themed rooms to choose between – from Dollywould to Modrophenia.

Sea spray has 15 different themed rooms from Elvis to Venice and also offers an insider’s guide to Brighton once you have made a booking.

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this post on one day in Brighton. However, this post does contain affiliate links.

That means if you click through on the links in this day trip to Brighton post and end up making a purchase I may well receive a small commission. Just wanted to make sure that you knew this.

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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Tuesday 21st of April 2020

A wonderful guide - I can't wait to go back to Brighton!

Nina | Lemons and Luggage

Sunday 19th of April 2020

As a vegan, Brighton is high on my list of places to visit because it's supposed to have an amazing vegan scene!

Saturday 18th of April 2020

Brighton is one my favourite place in the UK. It’s been for years the summer getaway destination for my sister and I. We would go there especially for the fish and chips and ice cream! So yummy!

I worked in Brighton for four months and it's lovely to be reminded of all my old haunts! Great post!

Natasha Amar

I didn't have the chance to visit Brighton on my trip to London last year- I sure hope to do so the next time I visit.

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Fun things to do on a day trip to Brighton

If you’re thinking of a day trip to Brighton, help is at hand.  We’ve just come back from a fun-packed day out in Brighton and have some fantastic ideas for the best things to do.

Brighton in East Sussex is a cool place to visit and one of the most popular destinations for seaside day-trippers from London.  Its location in South England makes it so accessible, as you can get to Brighton from London by train in an hour.  It’s also an easy destination to reach by car.

Last week we were in dire need of some sea air, so I planned the perfect Brighton day trip  for teens.  Read on for our one-day Brighton itinerary and the best things to do in Brighton for first-time visitors.

Please note, that we started at the beach huts in Hove.  If you are travelling by train, just follow our one-day Brighton itinerary in reverse!

*contains affiliate links

Please note that we were kindly gifted the tickets for some of the attractions, but all views and opinions are our own.

Contents: click to jump to a section

Read on for how to spend a day in Brighton!

Beach huts in hove.

We started our Brighton day trip at the colourful beach huts on the seafront.  The huts are officially in Hove, but it’s just a gentle 10-minute walk along the promenade into Brighton.

The jolly wooden beach huts are painted an assortment of bright, summer hues and provide a welcome splash of colour to the promenade.  It’s no wonder they are one of the most instagrammable spots in Brighton.

Brighton beachfront has a wide promenade, making it popular with joggers, cyclists, roller skaters and buggies.  Along the way you’ll pass Brighton bandstand and the elegant Regency houses.

The Upside Down House

On arrival in Brighton centre, you can’t miss the blue Upside Down House, just before the i360 tower.

As the name suggests, everything in the house is topsy-turvy, with all the furniture on the ceiling. It doesn’t take long to visit but is a fun option for anyone who wants a surreal photo session.

You can capture a shot of yourself crawling across the kitchen cupboards, bouncing off the ceiling or even playing upside-down chess.  It goes without saying that the kids’ best photo was diving headfirst into a toilet!

• Time spent at attraction:   15 minutes
• Admission costs:   £5 (under 3s are free)
• Click here for the Upside Down House website

Rampion Visitor Centre

After the Upside Down House, we made an impromptu visit to the Rampion Visitor Centre.  It wasn’t in our plans for our day out in Brighton, but it was an easy way to kill some time before our trip on the i360.  Plus, it was warm inside, and admission was free!

The Rampion Visitor Centre has a collection of interactive displays and exhibits for visitors to learn about the installation and operation of Brighton’s offshore windfarm.  You can even take a Virtual Reality journey out to the farm itself.

• Time spent at attraction:  15 minutes
• Admission:  free
• Click here for Rampion Visitor Centre website

British Airways i360

Probably the most striking attraction along Brighton seafront is the BA i360 tower.  At 162 metres, it is certainly the tallest and a must-visit attraction for the best views in Brighton.  Created by the architects behind the London Eye, Brighton i360 is a unique, futuristic observation deck, which actually moves!

Following our official “check-in” at airport security, we headed towards the glass pod.  Once inside you take a slow ascent to the top, whilst admiring the views over Brighton.

It’s spacious inside the pod and you can do a 360 turn for panoramic views at every angle.  You can see over the roof tops, Brighton’s key landmarks and out to sea.  On a bright day you’ll spot the windfarm and can see as far as the Isle of Wight.

If you want to treat yourself, there’s a Sky Bar inside, so you can have a glass of bubbly whilst you enjoy the views.  The BA i360 tower really is one of the best things to do in Brighton.

• Time spent at attraction:   25 minutes
• Admission:   £17.50 (adults) Children (£8.50)
• Click here for opening times and tickets at the BAi360

Brighton Pier

Now, you can’t have a day trip to Brighton without a walk along the pier.

Brighton Palace Pier has been popular with visitors to Brighton since the Victorian era, though I suspect it’s changed a lot since then.  Today it’s a traditional English pier with arcade games, candy floss and rides.  Not really my cup of tea, but this is one of the best things to do in Brighton with kids.

• Time spent at attraction:   20 minutes
• Admission cost :  free

If it’s a rainy day in Brighton, head to the Brighton Sea Life Centre, the world’s oldest aquarium.

Click here for tickets to Brighton Sea Life Centre .

A bike ride to Rottingdean

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore the Brighton coast, one of the best things to do is a bike ride to Rottingdean.  We hired bikes from Brighton Beach Bikes, located under the arches by the pier.

The coastal path is traffic-free and flat and we were able to cycle from Brighton to Rottingdean and back in an hour.

You’ll pass Brighton Marina and could then be forgiven for thinking you were in Dover, as the cliffs are all white.

If you need refreshments, you’ll find two cafés en route.   Or, if you have more time continue to Saltdean and take a dip in the lido.

• Time spent :  1 hour
• Costs :  £6 pp
• Click here for Brighton Beach Bikes website

Royal Pavilion

Don’t forget to include a visit to the Royal Pavilion in your 1-day Brighton itinerary.

This magnificent palace was the seaside residence of King George IV.   Yet, Brighton Royal Pavilion wasn’t always so grand.  King George transformed it over his years in Brighton using architectural influences from India and China.  The palace you’ll see today has amazing domes, towers, and minarets and is a sight for sore eyes.

Plus, it’s worth going inside the palace to see the lavish interiors and furnishings in the rooms.  Don’t forget to look up as the ceilings and chandeliers are exquisite.

You’ll enjoy the visit more if you download the free audio guide for your tour.  This way you can learn the interesting details of the King’s decadent lifestyle and the palace’s transformation as you go round.

If you have more time, you could also visit the Brighton Art Gallery which is in the grounds of the palace.

• Costs :  £16/Adults £10/Kids (5-18)
• Click here for Brighton Royal Pavilion  website

North Laine

From the Royal Pavilion, we took a short walk to North Laine, one of Brighton’s famous shopping roads.  This should not be confused with the Lanes, which is a short walk away.

North Laine is bustling with independent shops selling vintage clothes and trendy knick-knacks.

There’s plenty of places to eat, but we stopped at Cloud 9, an independent café at the end of Kensington Gardens.  Although small, Cloud 9 prides itself on selling the best cakes and homemade ice creams in Brighton.  We can confirm that the Oreo milkshakes are also truly scrumptious!

Brighton has some fantastic street art, much of which is very big and bold!  We found this giant mural of Alice in Wonderland on the side of a café in Hanningtons Lane.   It is the work of local street artist, Eelus.

Brighton Beach

Of course, we couldn’t go on a day out at the seaside without a walk along the beach.  Brighton doesn’t have the best beach for playing, as it is stony, which is why it’s taken me so long to bring the kids.  However, it’s perfect for a wander and it wasn’t really beach weather in March anyway.

Brighton's West Pier

One of the best places to be at sunset is by Brighton’s West Pier.  Unlike Brighton Palace Pier, all that remains of the West Pier are its skeletal remains.  However, the silhouette at sunset is stunning.

The pier was the achievement of engineer, Eugenius Birch and was opened to the public in 1866.  It was a popular attraction, with millions of visitors.  Unfortunately, it was destroyed by a devastating fire in 2003.

I had hoped to see the flocks of starlings (a murmuration, I believe) which circle in the skies above the pier at dusk, but we weren’t in luck.

How to get to Brighton

As I said earlier, Brighton is super easy to get to by car.  Follow the M25, M23 and then the A23 which will take you all the way to the centre.

However, parking in Brighton can be expensive.  To save money, park outside and walk in. We parked at the Norton Road Car Park in Hove, which was good value for a day’s parking.

Alternatively, there is reasonable parking near Brighton train station or at Oxford Court car park.

There are regular trains from London Victoria station to Brighton, which only take an hour.  Alternatively, you could leave from London Blackfriars.  Brighton station is in the town centre, so you can easily walk from here.

Getting around Brighton

It is easy to see everything in Brighton on foot and walking means you can explore all the back streets and alleys.

If you don’t like walking, you could get a bike from Brighton’s bike share scheme.  You can pick a pay as you go option, which only costs 3p per minute.  There are plenty of docking stations along the seafront.

Or you could take a ride on an open top bus as part of Brighton’s Hop-on-Hop-off sightseeing tour.

Accommodation in Brighton

If you want to stay longer than a day in Brighton, there’s plenty of accommodation to suit all budgets.

Some of the fanciest hotels in Brighton can be found right near the beach.  Check out The Southern Belle with its own cocktail lounge, or Hotel Una with its spa facilities.  Or you could try a self-catering holiday home, such as Bird Sisters Cottage , near the station.

For cheaper accommodation in Brighton, you could consider Kemp Town or an area away from the beach.  You can click on Booking.com for availability and prices.

What are your best things to do on a day trip to Brighton?  We’d love to hear your comments below.

You may also like:

• Best things to do in Whitstable
• A weekend in Rye, East Sussex
• 7 best things to do in Deal, Kent
• 7 fabulous coastal breaks in South East England

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That all looks so fun! I think somewhere near where I live (washington state) there is an upside down museum or whatever…I”ve thought it would be fun.

The upside down house looks like a lot of fun! Brighton looks like a lively place — almost reminds me of the beach neighborhoods in Los Angeles like Venice and Santa Monica.

Though I think the weather is far nicer in Los Angeles!

Love Alice. That;s brilliant!! Your pics are lovely!!

Thanks Lydia

Thank you for sharing your tour of Brighton with us at #weekendcoffeshare. I keep this in mind for when I visit the UK again.

Looks like I need to add another place to my travel bucket list! I’m especially intrigued by the upside-down house, and that sunset picture is stunning.

It’s one of the most fun destinations on the South coast. Something for all ages.

My great aunt lived in Saltdean when I was small. I remember them building Butlins and blocking her view of the sea. Your post makes me want to go back.

It’s definitely changed in recent years.

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Home » Staycations » One day in Brighton – day trip ideas to eat, drink & play

One day in Brighton – day trip ideas to eat, drink & play

By Helen Wright

We all like to be beside the seaside and a day in Brighton, East Sussex, is a top spot to do that – especially when the sun is shining. Just an hour by train, a day trip to Brighton from London is the perfect seaside getaway, especially if you only have one day to enjoy the coast. With its winding and windy lanes, lined with rainbow shops and hipster coffee bars, 3.5-mile seafront and choice of award-winning restaurants, Brighton has something for everyone.  Planning a Brighton day trip can be tricky if you don’t know your way around, so we’ve put together the perfect one-day itinerary for Brighton as a guide. Just don’t forget to pick up a stick of Brighton Rock before you head home!

(Cover image: Garry Knight)

How to plan the perfect day in Brighton:

A day in Brighton: Getting there from London

Getting to Brighton from London is easy. The train takes an hour from London and is also only half an hour from London Gatwick Airport. Trains leave from St Pancras, Blackfriars, London Bridge and Victoria and saver deals are available if you book in advance. By car, a door-to-door trip from London to Brighton takes around 2.5hrs.

Once you arrive, the beach and the main tourist areas are all walking distance (downhill) from the station.

Brighton Food: Breakfast of champions

One of my favourite places (possibly the favourite) is a little cafe, which is five minutes from the station and serves the best breakfast in Brighton. Mange Tout is an independent-run bistro that serves breakfast / brunch, lunch and dinner, using top quality and locally sourced ingredients. It’s really tiny, so booking is recommended, but it’s the perfect place to feast on brekkie before you start your day in Brighton. mangetoutbrighton.co.uk

One day in Brighton: A wander through the lanes

Kick off the day with a morning stroll around the famous Brighton Lanes. Mange Tout sits at the top of North Laine, so (as well as providing a delicious start to the day) it’s perfectly placed to start your Brighton day trip. Collectively, the lanes make up a maze of colourful streets with a mix of trendy boutiques, slightly tired shops selling weird hippie garments, tacky crap merchants and coffee shops. Atmosphere is fun, but it gets very busy as the day rolls on, so morning is best when the shops are (mostly) all open – from around 10.30am.

A potter around here is primarily for people-watching and curiosities, but I do have a few favourites, including Powell Craft (a vintage-inspired clothing boutique), Pussy Home Boutique (a modern-yet-kitsch and cheeky interiors store), Toby Tiger (kids shop) and the Army and Navy style Snooper’s Paradise (a vintage junk yard with some hidden treasures). Plus, if you didn’t arrive in time for breakfast or you just fancy a sweet treat, you have the perfect excuse to nip into Gelato Gusto for an ice cream brownie…

Brighton day trip: head to the seafront

Victorian brighton.

Let’s face it, if you don’t live by the coast, the seafront is the biggest attraction in a destination like Brighton. The stoney, slightly breezy, beach stretches 3.5 miles from Brighton Marina to Hove, and embodies that classic British seaside persona. Think stripy deckchairs, Mr Whippy vans, fish & chip cabins and open hatch kiosks bursting with neon inflatables. However, a closer look will reveal more of the city’s character and personality.

Brighton is an underrated spot to relive the glory days of Victorian seaside culture and design. Heading downhill to the seafront and turning left, Madeira Drive and Terrace, is a beautiful Grade II listed arcade designed by Philip Causton Lockwood. Currently undergoing a huge restoration project, this stretch of 151 seafront arches is thought to be the longest cast-iron structure in Britain. From here, take a ride on the Volks Electric railway. Established in 1883, this cute little train, that runs along the beach, is the oldest electric railway in the world. (Return trip, £5 each, running summer season April – October) volkselectricrailway.co.uk

Heading back along the seafront, you can’t miss the historic Brighton Palace Pier. The attraction is open year-round for traditional, British fun (more on that later).  Keep walking and you’ll see the dramatic, charred remains of the ill-fated West Pier. Built in 1866, closed in 1975, damaged by a storm in 1987 and then ravaged by fire in 2003 (some luck, huh?), the ghostly shell of the West Pier is now the most photographed building in Brighton

A walk along the front (Kings Road) will also showcase the newly restored The Grand, Brighton Hotel, with its glamorous wrought-iron balconies. Further still, look out for the delightful Brighton Bandstand, which was restored to its Victorian splendour in 2009. You can actually get married on the Bandstand and it has also become a popular Instagram spot for those who like to pose.

A day in Brighton: Lunch

Brighton food: the best fish and chips brighton beach.

A day in Brighton isn’t really official until you’ve had good old British fish and chips along the seafront. Basic, but true. Freshly caught fish, salty chips with vinegar and a side of sea breeze remind me of the holidays we had as a kid. Maybe it’s all in the mind; maybe its Brighton food; but fish and chips just tastes better by the sea!

There is a lot of competition, but the winner of the best Brighton fish and chips for two years running, is Melrose Brighton , just across the road from the British Airways i360 and the former West Pier. We have to agree. The location is perfect, you can choose to sit indoors or outside, or order a take away to scoff on the beach. Cod and Chips, £8.75, bottle of white wine, £25, Prosecco, £24, beer, £4.95 and if you feel fancy, half a dozen oysters are £8.75 (all plus a 10% service charge for eating in).

Grubbs Burgers

If fish and chips isn’t your thing, a quick search for the best Brighton food will pull up an unassuming burger joint called Grubbs Burgers (no apostrophe…). This cult Brighton burger bar is a favourite with locals, especially students. At £3.75 for burger and chips, I can see why. There are plenty of typically ‘Brighton foodie’ options on the menu, such as the Malaysian burger (peanut butter sauce and chilli) and the Mango Curry burger, but even the classic hamburger makes for a tasty lunch. This independent chain has a few outposts but no website. You’ll find the 89 St James’s Street branch in Kemptown, just uphill from the Volks Electric Railway station.

a day at Brighton Beach

Brighton beach is 3.5 miles from the Brighton Marina to Hove Beach. Despite this, mostly everyone sits in the same stretch, meaning the wide, pebble beach can become crowded on sunny days. The areas around Brighton Palace Pier, the Sealife Centre and the British Airways i360 are the busiest, because they are closest to the seafront shops, cafes and bars. The whole beach is mostly stones, but when the tide is out, patches of sand can be found. We try to avoid the larger crowds that gather near the pier, which is often dope-smoking teenagers or groups of drunk people, and head 10-15 minutes along the promenade to the slightly less busy and more family-friendly beaches at Hove lawns. It’s mostly residential here, so aim to pack a picnic or stock up on what you need before walking down. Having said that, there are a few beach cafes and ice cream vendors along the beach path if you need refreshments.

Brighton can be windy, so even on the hottest days it never feels boiling hot. Watch out for the deceiving breeze or you’ll definitely end up with sunburn! The sea is cold but folk don’t seem to mind, there are always people paddle-boarding, body surfing or swimming – even in the winter! Paddle boards and kayaks can be rented from the shops along the beach path, but it isn’t cheap (£17 for an hour or £70 for a day). The low tide means younger children can paddle safely at the waters edge, so a day in Brighton on the beach is cheap and family friendly. There is more sand as the tide goes out, but even then the stones can be sharp, so pack some beach shoes or jellies for both adults and kids.

If you fancy a swim to clear away the cobwebs, my recommendation is to just jump or run into the sea. Be warned, once you dip a toe in, the cold water might put you off! For obvious reasons, everyone plans a Brighton day trip for when it’s sunny, but even when the weather isn’t perfect you can still enjoy the beach. Walking along the water’s edge, throwing stones into the sea and building a fort from the pebbles is all part of the fun – and that’s just for the adults! Bring your own blanket and enjoy the view.

Brighton Pier – cool off in the breeze

A Brighton day trip wouldn’t be the same without a little walk on the world-famous Brighton Palace Pier! The grade II listed pier originally opened in 1899 and is a throwback to the days of wholesome family fun. A stroll along the boards will take you past fudge and toffee apple huts, doughnut shops and local retailers ,a choice of flashing arcades and even a soft play. There is a, slightly spendy, fairground with spinning rides, a rickety rollercoaster and a Helter Skelter. For those who just fancy chilling out, deckchairs line the ornate railings (£5 per hour) and offer lovely views of the coastline.

What else to do during the day in Brighton:

British airways i360 observation tower.

Confession: I haven’t been on the i360 (Finn is desperate to go on it, so we will next time we visit). However, those I know who have taken a trip to the top said the 25-minute ride is fun and the views can be spectacular. On a clear day, some have spotted the Isle of Wight (64 miles away!). The moving observation tower, which is the tallest in the UK, reaches 450ft and has a bar inside – which sounds good to me! Tickets are cheaper if you book in advance online at britishairwaysi360.com (Adults, £14.95. Children aged 4-15 £7.40).

Brighton Ice Cream and Coffee

Another reason to head toward the British Airways i360 is for ice cream. I know, I know, you can get ice cream anywhere… but here is the best. The blue and white van behind the i360 at beach level, serves soft scoops of Callestick Farm whipped ice cream from Cornwall and it’s delicious. You can’t miss it, there is usually a line. Cones are £2 for a sizeable serving with a chocolate flake – and come fully toddler-approved.

Also in this area is The Flour Pot Kitchen ; a cute cafe built into the arches opposite the West Pier. My photo (below) was taking during the pandemic, when they were only open for takeaway, but usually they have outdoor tables in the sun and shade. The bakery serve pastries, brunch and handmade sourdough pizza if you feel peckish, but I mainly go for the delicious coffee and banana bread. Get your caffeine fix with their house-blended coffee (a mix of Colombian, Rwandan and Brazilian beans). It’s really, really good. For grown ups, at sunset they serve wine and aperitifs too… theflourpot.co.uk

Kids paddling pool on Brighton seafront

If you’re visiting with kids, the final spot to check out on your Brighton day trip is the Kings Road Paddling Pool. On the beach path, just past the i360, is a large playground with a huge, shallow paddling pool that is ideal for children to cool off if you don’t want to let them loose in the sea. Complete with a fountain and splash jets, parents can take a seat on one of the surrounding benches and enjoy a cappuccino from The Flour Pot, while the kids (big and small) are happily entertained.

A day in Brighton: what to do in the evening

Where to watch the sunset in brighton.

On a clear day, you will get a great view of the sunset in Brighton from anywhere along the beach at sun down. Due to its unique mark on the horizon, the most popular place is in front of the West Pier. It’s a good place to start, as there are a few cute spots along this stretch and you can wander along the seafront for different perspectives. The art-deco building that houses The Beach Club restaurant, and the Brighton Grandstand also look pretty in front of a magenta sky.

Nightlife: Evening drinks and food in Brighton

Even if you only have a day in Brighton, the last train to London leaves around midnight, so you still have time to sample some top notch Brighton food for dinner and have a drink at one of the best bars in Brighton. I’ll keep it simple with three of my favourites:

Brighton Pub: The Mesmerist

This pub is a kind-of cocktail bar / old man pub / gig haunt / trendy joint mixed into one, but I really like the atmosphere. In the afternoon, you can grab a quiet drink (the cocktails are really good) and read the paper, while a cluster of NCT mums jiggle their babies in the corner. But, at weekends you are just as likely to bump into a rowdy hen do, complete with pink tutus and an inflatable penis… By night, the vibe is dressier and more trendy as Brighton’s bar scene begins to ramp up. Plus, at any time of day, you might even catch some live music. mesmerist.pub

Brighton Food: Dinner at The Chilli Pickle

This place is a personal favourite. A modern take on Indian street food, the diverse, pan-Indian menu has some stand-out sharing plates, including Courgette and Kurly Kale Pakoras (£6), Kashmiri Mutton Curry with biryani rice and Beetroot Riatta (£15) and Crispy Vindaloo Wings (£8). The colourful, canteen-style restaurant is usually buzzing and their cocktails (£8) are pretty decent too. If you’re in a rush, the street food cart outside sells tasty Taj ‘railway boxes’ to take away, starting from £16. thechillipickle.com

Brighton Bar: Shuffle

Sit on wooden crates draped with fairy lights and control the music with your own phone in this fun Brighton bar. The vibe is cheerful (beware the hen and stag dos!) and the drinks are cheap. Be warned, if you are over 30, aim to get a bit tipsy before you go in or initially you might feel very Millennial…

last train home:

Don’t miss the last train home! From the seafront and Kemptown, leave yourself 15 minutes to walk uphill to the station. Times vary, but the last London-bound train is usually around midnight. If you miss it, head back to the bar for a few hours as the first train of the day is at 3.30am… Failing that, you should be able to find a cheap hotel for the night.

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

Making the most of a brighton one day trip from london.

We recently spent a long weekend in the London area. We flew in and out of Gatwick Airport and decided to take the train to Brighton for the day. 

Brighton is a seaside town just 30 minutes by train from Gatwick Airport and an ideal day trip destination on the day of arrival or departure.

Let's explore how to make the most of a Brighton one day trip from London with this travelogue covering my personal experience visiting Brighton by the sea for a day.

Exploring North Laine

We stepped out of the Victorian station into an overcast morning. I admired the ornate wrought iron lampposts lining the main street. We turned left and walked up a flight of stairs leading into North Laine. 

We were greeted by colorful street art. We looked down impossibly narrow alleys, which were designated for cyclists. A local shop sold finished works of art and other supplies. 

I liked the one-eyed crocheted creatures staring at us through the window. We stumbled upon an even more striking array of street art. 

Colorful shops and restaurants lined the narrow lane. I had never seen an architectural salvage shop before. 

Tempting as it may have been, we decided not to have our tarot cards read when we walked past a fortune teller.

Tidy Street

The name Tidy Street was a perfect fit for the area. We walked down a narrow street lined with antique and bric-a-brac shops. 

Roly's fudge was another tempting treat, but we decided to save our appetite for later. We soon found ourselves in the middle of a street art mecca. 

The subjects of the art ranged from the Smurfs to an urban apocalypse to charitable institutions to urban military pawns. Hip hop and funk tributes completed the scene. We couldn't wait to see what else Brighton had to offer.

Brighton Beach

Of course, we went to Brighton's famous beach. In one direction, we could see the pier full of traditional amusements. In the other direction, the path wound past a colorful carousel and a variety of shops and restaurants. 

In the distance, we saw the remains of an old pier, which was all that remained of the West Pier that burned down in 2003. 

We strolled along the path past artist and souvenir shops. We admired the carousel up close. An old wooden boat added character to the walkway. 

We discovered a lonely smokehouse standing on the shore. We went into a hole-in-the-wall restaurant for fish and chips. The portions were huge.

Brighton's Royal Pavilion

Sated, we made our way up the staircase to the Royal Pavilion, one of Brighton's most famous attractions.

Brighton is renowned for King George IV's extravagance. He transformed the Royal Pavilion into an Asian-inspired pleasure palace.

We strolled around the exterior and admired the facade and gardens.

Some brave sunbathers sat outside in the garden despite the chilly temperatures.

Photography was not permitted inside, but the tour of the Royal Pavilion was captivating. My favorite features included a long hall lined with Chinese bobble-heads and the dining hall with an enormous gilded dragon chandelier. 

The dining room frequently hosted 20+ course dinners of epic proportions, which must have contributed significantly to King George's obesity and ill-health in later life. 

The Royal Pavilion was a sight to behold and is a must-see for any trip to Brighton.

We strolled from the Royal Pavilion towards The Lanes, a series of charming, narrow shopping streets. I appreciated the contrast of old and new architecture along the way.

We checked the time at the gilded clock tower at a nearby intersection.

More street art appeared along the gritty sidewalks.

We meandered deeper into The Lanes and we soon found Angel Food Bakery.

We knew we were in for a treat when we saw the peanut butter whoopie pies on the counter. We also tried a coffee cupcake with a Crunchie bar on top, which was delicious. 

While we were eating, we noticed a print on the wall by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, which reminded us of our 2 day trip to Glasgow .

We knew we had arrived at The Lanes when we saw The Lanes Traders Arch. We strolled through the winding shopping streets, ducked through a small passage, and emerged into a bright courtyard full of cafes. It was a popular spot on a Saturday afternoon.

🔎 Sidewalk Safari Spotlight

Looking for other London day trip and weekend ideas? Why not explore England's maritime history with a day in Greenwich or a day in Portsmouth ? Take the train to Canterbury and Dover and take a detour to Faversham and Rochester on the way. You could steep in academic history with a trip from London to Oxford or visit Bath UK .

Brighton Palace Pier

We stood at the entrance to Brighton Pier and admired the Victorian architecture. We looked back at the beach, which was dotted with people. 

The pier was full of carnival games. We were tempted to play the skill cranes, which offered large, plush Android toys, but they cost 2 euros each, so we decided against it. 

We changed a pound into 2p coins at a beautiful stained glass kiosk. We tried our luck at a much more affordable game of skill, where you roll a 2p coin down a chute and the sweeping action of the bar below pushes coins out of the slot. 

We spent about 2 pounds and ended up with a plastic orange keychain! A bit overpriced, of course, but it was a fun 10 minutes. 

We named it Twopee Brighton after our destination and how we got it. Outside, a tarot reader was calling out to people. The Horror Hotel and other thrill rides were making people scream with delight. 

We circled back and exited the pier, walking along the sea-foam green path. The oldest electric railway station in the world, which was still operating, sat alone by the beach. We looked back and admired the view of the pier.

Dinner at an English Pub

Feeling peckish, we headed back to Brighton's North Laine to find a bite to eat.

Many of the top restaurants in the area were booked out, so we stopped at the North Laine Brewhouse.

The interior decor was reminiscent of Old England, with wrought iron light fixtures.

A huge wooden bird sculpture hung dramatically from the ceiling.

We tried a sample of the house ales, which were clearly made on the premises.

We ordered a meat pie smothered in gravy and a surprisingly delicious chicken salad with feta and a lemon vinaigrette dressing. Overall, it was a satisfying meal.

The Pump House

The Pump House was our final stop in Brighton. It was a cozy retreat from the world outside, with its warm dark wood interior. 

We ordered a couple of British ales, which were always a tasty treat but could have been colder. However, I find that drinking warm beer is part of the experience in Britain, so we just went with it. Cheers!

Return to London

As we walked back to the train station to return to London, we saw a height chart outside Paint Pots, a pottery painting shop. 

The chart had a variety of celebrities from all walks of life, ranging from Yoda, fairies, and Oompa Loompas at the short end to Shaq and Kareem Abdul Jabbar at the tall end. We smiled at the creative display as our exciting day trip adventures in Brighton came to an end.

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