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Things to do in Brighton

Brighton is a gorgeous seaside resort town on the South Coast of England, only two hours from Dover when you get off the ferry.

Brighton became a fashionable seaside resort for wealthy holidaymakers from London in the Georgian era, when passenger railways expanded and became more popular. Much of the city’s beautiful architecture is thanks to this boom, with further sites like the Palace Pier being built in the Victorian era.

Brighton is still an incredibly popular tourist destination to this day and is renowned for its relaxed atmosphere. The city’s quirky, individual shops and businesses draw in diverse communities of students, artists, and a large LGBT population. The city is home to a buzzing arts and music scene which goes hand-in-hand with its reputation as being the UK’s ‘hippest’ city. Brighton is beloved by anyone who visits. And it's only a short drive from our Dover port, which gives you the opportunity to drive through the English countryside or along the great English coast which will take you through the historic towns of Hastings and Rye.

Need some additional peace of mind when planning your trip to Brighton this year? Upgrade to one of our Standard Flexi or Fully Flexi tickets and you'll enjoy some flexibility to your departure time! Not only that, but if you choose our Fully Flexi ticket you'll also avoid cancellation and amendment fees. Start planning that well deserved trip to Brighton today and book direct for the best deals!

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Morning	02:00	04:25	06:50	09:15
Midday	11:40
Afternoon	14:05	16:30
Evening	18:55	21:15	23:40

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Brighton Palace Pier
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The Lanes and North Laine
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Royal Pavilion and Pavilion Gardens
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British Airways i360

Things to do in Brighton

Brighton Palace Pier Brighton Pier is arguably the most famous attraction in this wonderful seaside town. It is a Grade II Listed pleasure pier, built in the 19th century when the country’s passenger railways became increasingly popular, bringing hordes of tourists and holidaymakers to coastal promenades. Pleasure piers include amusements such as the Turbo Rollercoaster at the end of Brighton Pier for thrill-seekers, or the Cup and Saucers for the more faint of heart!

If the weather isn’t great then fear not, you can head inside to the Palace of Fun, packed full of adventure from classic arcade games to state-of-the-art simulators. And if you’re simply in the mood to have a leisurely stroll and admire the sea views, you must make sure to tuck in to some fish and chips followed by an ice cream cone – just watch out for seagulls trying to steal your lunch!

The Lanes and North Laine

Discover Brighton’s roots by exploring The Lanes, the original centre of the old shipping village of Brighthelmstone. As you walk around the maze of cobbled streets and twisting alleyways you’ll be transported back to a simpler time, reinforced by the many antique shops and jewellers located here. Visit the square on East Street for a lovely meal after you’ve finished browsing the shops, and if you’re lucky you might even catch a live jazz music set.

Head north towards the main train station and you can’t miss the iconic North Laine district of the city. Featuring over 400 independent shops, cafés, and entertainment venues, this bohemian part of the city really gives Brighton its name for being an artistic and cultural hub. Explore a range of shops selling everything from vintage fashion to skateboarding paraphernalia to musical instruments. And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for some vibrant street art, including ‘Kissing Policemen’, a piece by the infamous artist Banksy, and an ode to the city’s status as the UK’s unofficial LGBT capital.

Royal Pavilion and Pavilion Gardens

Brighton’s Royal Pavilion is a Grade I Listed building and former residence of King George IV who used it as a seaside retreat in the early 19th century. This exotically stunning building stands out amongst the traditional Georgian and Victorian architecture of the city; built in the Indo-Saracenic style prevalent in 19th century India when it was part of the British Empire you will be instantly transported to far-off lands when admiring its many domes and minarets. Take a tour to discover the gorgeous neo-classical interior, including the grand Banqueting Room, Royal Bedrooms, and Prince Regent Gallery.

Spend a leisurely afternoon strolling around the Pavilion Gardens where the Royal Pavilion resides if you’re tired out from shopping and site-seeing. This beautiful, regency-style expanse of green space located at the heart of the city is the perfect place to sit and unwind. You can admire the amazing variety of plant life which attracts a beautiful collection of butterflies, birds, and bumblebees in the spring and summertime.

British Airways i360

Juxtaposing the historic backdrop of Brighton is the recently-opened British Airways i360, a 162m high observation tower located right on the seafront. Step on-board the giant glass viewing pod, designed by the creators of the iconic London Eye, and gently glide up to the top of the tower for incredible panoramic views across Brighton and Hove, the Sussex coastline, and the South Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Enjoy a drink on your way up from the Nyetimber Sky Bar located on the viewing deck as you sit back, relax, and admire the 360 views – on the clearest of days you might even be able to see the Isle of White across the English Channel. Trips up the tower take about 25 minutes and go up every half hour, so you’ll definitely have time to squeeze in a visit. Just make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment!