Best 20 things to do in Brighton, United Kingdom

Welcome to Brighton, where the seagulls have more attitude than most celebrities! If you're seeking an adventurous day out, start by exploring the famous Lanes, where you can find vintage treasures hidden among the endless maze of winding streets. Next, take a dip in the bracing waters, which will simultaneously refresh your soul and convince you to embrace life’s unpredictability. Lastly, visit the iconic Royal Pavilion, a sight so eccentric it will make you question the sanity of the person who dreamed it up. Keep calm and Brighton on, dear traveler!

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1. Preston Park

4.5 (4145)

Preston Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 6SD, UK

Welcome to Preston Park, the sprawling green oasis nestled in the heart of vibrant Brighton! This charming park has something for everyone, whether you're a nature lover, a picnic aficionado, or just someone seeking respite from the relentless seagulls patrolling the Brighton Pier. Brace yourself for an enchanting stroll through idyllic pathways, where you'll encounter more dogs than humans and possibly even engage in a friendly tug of war for the last spot on the park bench.

www.brighton-hove.gov.uk

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2. West Pier

4.5 (323)

Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FL, UK

Tucked away in the vibrant city of Brighton, the West Pier stands with an air of nostalgic grandeur, like a stubborn piece of seaside history refusing to fully succumb to the ravages of time. While it may not offer any heart-stopping rides or stomach-churning roller coasters (unless you count the thrill of feeling your umbrella being snatched away by the gusting winds), this charming wreck draws travellers in with its dilapidated charm, harking back to a time when people wore questionable bathing suits without a care in the world. So, grab your camera and your sense of adventure, and prepare to snap some artistically blurred shots of this famous monument — a relic still standing, much like your Aunt Mildred after a few too many gins at Sunday lunch.

www.westpier.co.uk

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3. Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina, Brighton, Brighton and Hove BN2, UK

Welcome to Brighton Marina, where land meets sea in a comically tangled dance. Marvel at the myriad of boats bobbing along the harbor, ranging from majestic yachts to tiny paddle boards that seem to have taken a wrong turn. Discover a haven for quirky cafes and restaurants, where the salty sea breeze harmonizes with the aromas of fish and chips, luring your taste buds into a symphony of flavors. Feel free to try your luck at the amusement arcade, where the cacophony of the games mingles with the occasionally exasperated cries of visitors realizing that, yet again, they did not win that oversized stuffed unicorn.

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4. Booth Museum of Natural History

4.6 (519)

194 Dyke Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 5AA, UK

Nestled in the vibrant city of Brighton, the Booth Museum of Natural History awaits the daring souls who seek a dash of quirkiness alongside an education on the wonders of the natural world. Prepare to be awestruck by the bizarre spectacle of taxidermy gone wild as you step into a realm where animals strike unusual poses and birds of all feathers flock together for a party that only Mother Nature could have dreamed up. With its eclectic collection of over 300 species on display, ranging from the majestic and magnificent to the downright peculiar, the Booth Museum promises to tickle your funny bone and broaden your mind, all in one fell swoop.

brightonmuseums.org.uk

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5. North Laine

North Laine, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1, UK

Welcome to North Laine, the vibrant and eclectic heart of Brighton, where hipsters roam free and thrift shops outnumber pigeons. Take a stroll down its whimsical streets, you'll discover an array of quirky boutiques, vintage emporiums, and enough vegetarian eateries to make even the most committed carnivore question their life choices. Don't forget to sip on a soy latte while browsing through the artsy 'zines at the local coffee shop, as you'll need all the caffeine you can get to keep up with the endless supply of colorful characters North Laine has to offer.

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6. Hove Museum and Art Gallery

4.2 (267)

19 New Church Road Brighton, and, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 4AB, UK

Welcome to Hove Museum and Art Gallery, where charming relics and quirky creations meet your insatiable appetite for all things amusing. Step inside this delightful Victorian gem, adorned with more curiosities than a whimsical circus. Marvel at the eclectic collection, from fancy teapots to elephant-sized chess pieces, pulling you into a whimsical world where vintage treasures and unexpected masterpieces are just begging for your attention. So, if you're searching for a place to tickle your funny bone while indulging in a touch of culture, Hove Museum and Art Gallery is a must-visit destination that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.

brightonmuseums.org.uk

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7. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach, Brighton, UK

Welcome to Brighton Beach, the charming coastal gem that will make you feel like you've stepped into Mother Nature's treasure trove. With its pebble-covered shore that can be rather uncomfortable to walk on (warning: leave your high heels at home!), you'll have an authentic experience of reaching the water's edge like a skilled tightrope walker. As you bask in the seaside charm, be prepared for a colorful ensemble of sun-seeking locals and tourists, each soaking up the rays with a faux sense of sophistication, attempting to outdo one another in building the most innovative sandcastles.

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8. Devil's Dyke

4.7 (3993)

Devil's Dyke Rd, Brighton BN1 8YJ, UK

Welcome to Devil's Dyke, the delightful natural wonder nestled in the charming city of Brighton! Picture this: a gorgeously scenic spot with rolling hills that even the devil himself was tempted to call home. Prepare to be seduced by stunning panoramic views that will make you forget your mundane troubles and ponder why anyone would name this extraordinary place after the horned guy downstairs. Don't worry, there are no pitchforks or fire-breathing creatures—just breathtaking vistas and maybe a few lost tourists trying to figure out if they took a wrong turn at the fork in the road.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk

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9. Brighton Open Market

4.2 (2695)

Marshalls Row, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4JU, UK

Nestled in the heart of Brighton, the lively Brighton Open Market awaits aspiring bargain hunters and food enthusiasts alike. As you step into this vibrant hub, prepare to be bombarded with a kaleidoscope of sights, smells, and sounds, reminiscent of a bustling bazaar that's had a wild love affair with a farmers market. Here, you'll find an array of quirky stalls selling everything from vintage trinkets to artisanal cheeses, ensuring your senses are as tickled as your taste buds.

www.brightonopenmarket.co.uk

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10. St Peter's Church

4.5 (406)

York Pl, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4GU, UK

Nestled amidst the quirky streets of Brighton, St Peter's Church stands tall and proud, like a grandparent determined to keep up with the youngsters. Its stunning architecture, adorned with a mishmash of charming details, is a delightful reflection of Brighton's eclectic personality. Step inside and you'll be greeted by the majestic stained glass windows, casting a rainbow of colors that even a disgruntled seagull would appreciate.

stpetersbrighton.org

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11. Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

4.4 (1351)

Royal Pavilion Gardens, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1EE, UK

Welcome to Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, the hipster's paradise of culture and creativity! Get ready to drown in a sea of quirky artifacts and offbeat artwork that will make even a potato feel inspired. With its eclectic exhibits ranging from ancient Egyptian mummies to cutting-edge contemporary art, this place is like the eccentric aunt you never knew you had – delightfully odd, but captivating in every peculiar way.

brightonmuseums.org.uk

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12. British Airways i360

4.5 (12145)

Lower Kings Road, Brighton BN1 2LN, UK

Welcome to the British Airways i360, where you can take a "flight" that technically doesn't require a passport or any exceptionally dazzling flying abilities. Picture yourself soaring 450 feet high in an ultra-modern glass tube, giving a whole new meaning to the term "elevated experience". As you ascend into the sky, try not to freak out – your safety is ensured, unless you're petrified of jaw-dropping views and toasty windows.

brightoni360.co.uk

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13. Royal Pavilion

4.5 (10344)

4/5 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1EE, UK

Welcome to the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, the architectural lovechild of a flamboyant prince and an elaborate fantasy world! This exotic palace is one part Indian, one part Chinese, and one part "what on earth is going on here?" Designed to confuse your sense of cultural identity, the Royal Pavilion is the architectural equivalent of trying to fit an elephant into a teacup - it's dazzlingly impractical and charmingly ridiculous. So, grab your monocle and prepare to enter a world where East meets West, and logic meets a blindfolded game of pin the tail on the palace!

brightonmuseums.org.uk

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14. Brighton Dome

4.6 (3129)

Church St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1UE, UK

Welcome to the iconic Brighton Dome, a place where entertainment and architectural peculiarities join forces! Step inside, and find yourself immersed in a world where neo-classical elegance meets aspiring artists trying to locate the elusive stage entrance. The Dome, or as some locals fondly call it, "The Hall that Time Forgot," will leave you wondering if you've accidentally wandered into a whimsical time machine experience.

www.brightondome.org

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15. Brighton Toy and Model Museum

4.5 (436)

52-55 Trafalgar St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4EB, UK

Tucked away in the lively city of Brighton, the Brighton Toy and Model Museum is a treasure trove of nostalgia that will make even the most sophisticated grown-ups squeal with delight. As you step inside this whimsical wonderland, be prepared to be transported back to your carefree childhood as you marvel at the towering displays of vintage toys and intricately detailed model trains. From the self-proclaimed "action figure aficionados" to the "die-hard doll enthusiasts," this museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to relive the joy of playtime, or simply to escape the responsibilities of adulting for a little while.

www.brightontoymuseum.co.uk

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16. The Lanes

The Lanes, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1, UK

Welcome to The Lanes in Brighton, a charming labyrinth of narrow streets filled with an irresistible mishmash of quirky shops, cozy cafes, and plenty of 'oh-so-you' boutiques. As you wander through this mazelike wonderland, be sure to keep an eye out for the infamous "Shop till you drop corner" - a fearsome intersection rumored to have claimed the sanity of many shopaholics. Feel free to lose yourself in this fashionista's paradise, but watch out for the sneaky seagulls lurking overhead, ready to snatch that mouth-watering gelato right out of your cone!

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17. Duke of York's Picturehouse

4.7 (953)

Preston Rd, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4NA, UK

Tucked away in the lively city of Brighton, the Duke of York's Picturehouse stands tall and proud, welcoming movie enthusiasts with open French-inspired doors. Boasting an eclectic mix of independent, classic, and avant-garde films, this cinema theater is a haven where mainstream blockbusters dare not tread. And fear not, for your comfort is their utmost concern, as they provide an array of velvet-laden seats that have witnessed far too much popcorn-related drama.

www.picturehouses.com

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18. Brighton Palace Pier

4.4 (31279)

Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1TW, UK

Welcome to Brighton Palace Pier, the place where everything is a little bit brighter, a little bit wackier, and a whole lot of fun! This iconic landmark stretches out into the glistening ocean like a rollercoaster enthusiast's dream. Prepare to be catapulted into a world filled with dizzying rides, cheeky seagulls eyeing your fish and chips, and enough flashing lights to make you question if you've accidentally stepped into a disco time machine.

www.brightonpier.co.uk

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19. Brighton Fishing Museum

4.1 (160)

201, Kings Road Arches, Brighton BN1 1NB, UK

Welcome to the Brighton Fishing Museum, where you can embark on a nostalgically fishy journey that will leave you pining for a lobster bib. This quirky establishment is a treasure trove of all things maritime, featuring enough fishing artifacts to make even a mermaid blush. So prepare yourself for a whale of a time, as you navigate through an ocean of displays that would even make Captain Ahab throw in his harpoon.

www.seafrontheritage.co.uk

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20. Sea Life Brighton

4.2 (6584)

Marine Parade, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1TB, UK

Nestled along the vibrant shores of Brighton, Sea Life awaits to greet you with open fins. Dive into a world where fins and scales mingle in an underwater extravaganza that's as mesmerizing as a synchronized swimming routine performed by clumsy fish. Brace yourself to be amazed as playful otters race each other like they're competing in the aquatic Olympics, leaving visitors in stitches of laughter.

www.visitsealife.com

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How to get there

Plane

The easiest and quickest way to get to Brighton by plane is to fly into London Gatwick Airport, which is about 30 kilometers away from Brighton. There are regular train and bus services that connect the airport to Brighton. Flying into London Heathrow Airport is also an option, however, it is further away and requires a longer journey by train or bus.

Car

The best way to get to Brighton by car is to take the M23 motorway from London and follow the signs to Brighton. It takes about an hour to drive from London to Brighton, depending on traffic. There are several car parks in Brighton, including the NCP car park on Russell Road and the Regency Square car park.

Train

Brighton is well connected by train to London and other major cities in the UK. The best way to get to Brighton by train is to take a high-speed train from London, such as the Thameslink or Southern Railways services. These trains run regularly throughout the day and take about an hour from London Victoria station to Brighton.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Brighton, but it is possible to get a ferry from Dieppe in France to Newhaven, which is about 12 kilometers away from Brighton. From Newhaven, there are regular bus and train services to Brighton. However, this option may not be the quickest or most convenient way to get to Brighton, as it involves multiple modes of transport.

Bus

There are several bus companies that run services to Brighton from other cities in the UK, such as National Express and Megabus. The best way to get to Brighton by bus is to book a direct service, as this will be quicker and more convenient. The bus station in Brighton is located in Pool Valley, which is in the city centre.

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