Things to do in Brighton

A trip to Brighton means beautiful seaside, quirky culture and excellent independent shopping, with plenty more sprinkled in between. Quietly sophisticated, but bohemian in equal measure, Brighton is perfect for those seeking a staycation with lively nightlife, historical buildings and independent boutique shopping districts. Here’s our guide to making the most of a trip to the south coast.

24 Hours in Brighton with the Hostel Girl

Join Katie, the Hostel Girl, on a whistle-stop tour of the British city of Brighton, all enjoyed from the city's beautiful YHA hostel.

Top Brighton attractions

Brighton i360

Enjoy a sky-high perspective of Brighton with a trip to the world’s tallest moving observation tower, the i360 !
Brighton Pavilion

One of Brighton’s best known and most recognisable attractions, Brighton pavilion is a symbol of regency grandeur and a representation of Britain’s strong ties with India.
Brighton Pier

Packed full of video games, thrill rides and shops - if you're looking for the very best of English seaside entertainment, you'll find it here!
Brighton Pride

If there is one thing Brighton is famous for, then it’s its proud heritage as a city of diversity, particularly diversity of sexuality.

Best things to do in Brighton

Alcotraz – Brighton's speakeasy cocktail bar prison experience

Alcotraz Cell Block One three promises to be one of the most unique cocktail bars in Brighton.
Bluebell Railway

Take a journey back in time, this heritage steam railway runs through the glorious Sussex countryside - a great day out. Visit the Bluebell Railway website
Brighton Bike Tours

Soak up the history and culture of this vibrant city by pedalling between Brighton's iconic landmarks. We now sell tours at reception for groups of two or more people. Suitable for ages 13 and up.
Brighton City Walks

Join Julian for his unique take on the "Brighton Story" with a guided tour around the historic town.
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Set at the heart of Brighton's cultural quarter (in the garden of the Royal Pavilion!) this museum and gallery is home to a huge collection of amazing objects.
Brighton Pier

Packed full of video games, thrill rides and shops - if you're looking for the very best of English seaside entertainment, you'll find it here!
Brighton Toy and Model Museum

Revisit your childhood at one of the finest toy museums in the world! Families and the young at heart will gaze in wonder at over 10,000 toys and models.
Cycling in Brighton

Cycling is the best way to see the city of Brighton as it has been selected as one of the UK's Cycling Towns.
Komedia

Want a REALLY good time? Head to one of the best comedy, cabaret and music venues in the south!
Mountain biking in Brighton

Wild Park is situated just to the north east of Brighton city centre and is home to a selection of short, well crafted trails for both downhill riders and freeriders.
North Laine

Once a slum area, now Brighton's hippest bohemian and cultural quarter - don't miss out on over 400 indie shops, cafes and vibrant entertainment venues!
Royal Pavilion

This extraordinary building was designed for George IV and has an unforgettable style of architecture!

Brighton rocks

Leisure and pleasure are Brighton’s raisons d’être. Ever since the profligate Prince Regent swaggered down here in 1783 with his motley entourage, Brighton’s reputation as a good-time town has only continued to grow. Daniel Neilson takes to the streets.

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Transport in Brighton

By train

Brighton is just under an hour on the train from London Victoria, with direct services also available from London Bridge and London St Pancras.

By bus

Regular National Express coach services operate in and out of Brighton from across the UK, including services from London Victoria and key south-eastern airports.

By plane

Brighton is just over 20 miles from London Gatwick Airport, making it easily accessible to those arriving by air. National Express coaches serve the airport, with regular services between it and the city.

By car

From London and the north: Simply take the M25/A23/M23 south until you reach Brighton. From Kent and the south east: If you are travelling to Brighton from the east or west use the A27.

Find your perfect Brighton accommodation

Plan a weekend

Accommodation

First of all, you’ll need to sort out your accommodation, and well, there’s nowhere better positioned than YHA Brighton. Positioned just a stone’s throw from a number of the city’s best-known attractions, the hostel boasts 51 en-suite rooms and plenty of attractive social and living space for you to enjoy and make the most of.

Food and drink

Whilst you can happily eat plenty of delicious food within the walls of YHA Brighton, it’s likely that you’ll also want to head out and about to appease your appetite. Brighton’s eclectic culture is echoed by its dining options. A stroll into town to the west of the pier will provide visitors with a wealth options to pick from, whether it’s fine dining or more hearty, traditional food you’re in search of.

Shopping

No trip to Brighton should be complete without taking time to enjoy the numerous shops the city has to offer. Best known of its shopping districts is The Lanes, which boasts independent shops and quirky boutiques to satisfy the more discerning shopper. There are also plenty of markets and larger, more well-known stores too, making Brighton a top spot to shop!

Hit the town

To many, the best thing about Brighton is its vibrant nightlife. Whilst the bigger clubs of West Street and its adjacent area will suit the tastes of many younger revellers, the city is also home to a wide range of characterful pubs, independent bars and live music venues.

Beyond Brighton

Whilst there’s plenty in Brighton to keep you entertained, it’s also well worth venturing beyond the city’s boundaries to explore slightly further afield. Brighton is surrounded by the South Downs National Park, which provides perfect walking territory for those wishing to explore the local area. Spots of greatest interest include Devil’s Dyke, a beauty spot just five miles north of Brighton, Arundel Castle and Lewes, a quaint medieval town famed for its Bonfire Night celebrations. Easily accessible by car or public transport, these spots are perfect for those looking for further variety during their trip to the south coast.

View some of our popular Brighton blogs

Colourful sights – YHA Brighton

After setting off from YHA South Downs, it’s about 9 miles walking along the South Downs Way before you reach Brighton Racecourse. The last 1.5 miles is through town, on the way down to the seafront. YHA Brighton is...