Brighton Tour Guide

Brighton Tour Guide

Brighton Walking Tour Map

If you are staying in Brighton for a few days I would take myself over to seagrass seasalt and sparrows pecking, the two food markets. The first is an indoor market on North Street which has great produce both fresh and dried or preserved. You can even have a cookery class with the vendor Storie’s Kitchen. The seagrass seasalt cafe is one of my favourite place to eat in Brighton. They have lovely freshly cooked meals at very reasonable prices.

Just one day in Brighton? Don’t worry, Brighton Town Press (brightontownpress.co.uk). With this guide you can make the most of your time! By viewing the map you can easily click through to find out more information about each location and how to get there. The map indicates whether the sights are places I visited (blue markers) or attractions that are worth seeing but which I didn't visit (red markers). My husband and I have done this route before and it was really fun.

Its not a race but it could be if you want to do a bit faster 🙂 Brighton is such a lovely city and all the attractions are very close to each other, there is plenty to do. Hope you enjoy it. My visit to Brighton lasted for 3 days and I've seen almost every place in town except the Palace Pier. However, it makes a good day trip from London if you have just one day for sightseeing.

It can also be combined with a trip to Lewes. Google maps is free to download for both Android and iPhone. If you need a map on your phone anywhere in the world, this is a great way of finding things to do in Brighton, UK like attractions, hotels, restaurants and cafes. I will do my best to keep this guide updated, but if you find anything is out of date, please do let me know.

How To Get To Brighton

Getting to Brighton doesnt have to be a hassle. The journey is simple and it’s easy to get around once you arrive. Brighton is a popular destination for those from London, so I know from experience that getting to Brighton can be stressful, especially if youre traveling with children or going on a long journey. My journey to Brighton started after getting off the train from London at East Croydon Station. As soon as I stepped on to the platform I was convinced my journey was ruined.

I stood and watched the platform get full and just kept thinking, why arent these people arriving at their destination? Its madness. To get to Brighton by train you can take the East or West Coastway train. The journey only takes 35 minutes from Victoria Station into Brighton Station and costs around  £19. 90 one way. You can find out more information about the journeys and route planner on the National Rail website. The train from Gatwick is a direct one so youll get to Brighton quickly and easily.

It leaves you just outside the main station which is a short walk from the sea front and Pier. If you have any other top tips or favourite things to see and do in Brighton, please get in touch. Working part time (supplementary hours) in KGS, under the direction of Deputy Head of Activities. Assist with the planning, organisation, overseeing, running and management of co-curricular activities held on campus. ]'.

Where To Stay In Brighton

No matter what youre after Brighton definitely has it. Whatever your budget, you can find a place to stay that will suit you perfectly. Brighton has plenty of luxury boutique hotels and if youre looking to spend less on your stay then there are also loads of backpacker friendly B&Bs and hostels. There are plenty of budget options but my top recommendation for where to stay in Brighton would be the Premier Inn on Dyke Road, just a short walk from the beach and restaurants.

Whether youre in Brighton for a day or the weekend, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit your budget. From cheap and cheerful hostels, guest houses and B&Bs, to hotels and apartments, youre spoilt for choice in this quirky coastal city. For luxurious accommodation with a sea view and all the mod cons, try the Metropole Brighton. If youre after more traditional English style then The Grand Hotel is perfect for you. Deciding where to stay in Brighton can be tricky.

If youre not familiar with the city, then a hostel might seem like the best option but this isnt always the case. Brighton has a huge range of accommodation including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and rentals. If youre looking for a long-term rental solution, then Ive created a page all about flatshare and homestay rooms in Brighton. Where to stay in Brighton. A day in Brighton really isnt enough and youll be back for a weekend before you know it.

Theres a massive range of places to stay in the city so why not turn your Brighton day trip into a Brighton weekend break. Where to stay in Brighton. A day in Brighton really isnt enough and youll be back for a weekend before you know it. Theres a massive range of places to stay in the city so why not turn your Brighton day trip into a Brighton weekend. If your thinking why Brighton for a weekend, then lets set the record straight.

The North Laine

The North Laine is the heart of Brighton. The Laines refers to the tree-lined Cleveland and Prince Albert Lanes that wind through it and it can be found between Prince Albert Street and Eastbourne Road in Kemptown; the original village area of Brighton that developed as a residential suburb after 1850. Narrow streets hide vintage boutiques, bohemian cafes, delis and specialist shops appealing to both young and old. My favourite street has to be Kensington Gardens, an elegant row of Victorian terraced town houses offering a breath of fresh air with its stuccoed fronts, fashionable wisteria-covered balconies and tranquil gardens.

The place has an alternative feel without being stuffy; charming, picturesque yet quirky. The North Laine is a small district in the seaside town of Brighton. It is named after the large, mainly Edwardian style terraced houses that make up most of the north and west sides of the quarter along with the much smaller Lanes which run off this. Located just west of Brighton city centre, The North Laine and The Lanes are bordered by the famous and touristy Thelingworth Road runs parallel to church lane which takes you down to Brighton Pier and passes Churchill Square and Kemp Town before arriving at Hove seafront.

The North Laine is Brighton Bournes most eclectic shopping district. It's a bit like stepping back in time to the 17th century with its many quirky antique shops, tailor's and cobblers. Back in the day, it was actually once known as the North Lanes and originally was a narrow lane linking East Street to West Street. Today it has a distinct Bohemian feel with its trendy boutiques, cafes and restaurants. The North Laine and The Lanes are two of The Lanes dive-y areas!  Both are home to a quaint collection of mom and pop shops selling vintage wares, imports, handmade goods and trinkets.

The Royal Pavilion

Before visiting the Royal Pavilion, I knew that it was a building of some architectural importance. I had read about it in the guide book and every time I went past it on the train I would notice how elaborate and colourful it looked. Yet until recently, I hadn’t stopped to appreciate the building's stunning interior or done much research into why Brighton’s 'Chinese Palace'is so famous. The purpose of the Royal Pavilion was as a seaside retreat for George IV, who was suffering at the time from an illness that made him consider moving to Madeira.

At that time it was known as the Brighton Marine Palace. It was designed by John Nash, the designer responsible for Regents Park and Marble Arch in London; Chiswick House (the setting for Vanity Fair); and Thames-side villas. I love this building, am quite biased about it, but it is a wonderful building, and I really do recommend a visit. I have been there two times now (at least). The first was at the end of July 2010 when I spent 10 days in Brighton with friend.

We walked past here on that trip and I lusted after the pavilion for 12 months before getting back again. The Royal Pavilion Brighton was built for George IV as a seaside retreat. The building is made up of domes and pavilions, which are heavily decorated with Turkish tiles and mirrors. If you head to Brighton then the Royal Pavilion is a must see. For those wanting to spend a few hours picking out gifts for themselves or their loved ones, either is great.

The Lanes, Brighton

Feeling peckish you say? Good news then, the Lanes are peppered with eateries to satisfy your greatest culinary desires. Big hitters such as Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen's rustic Bray restaurant Chez Roux, The Vincent hotel's brasserie Pierre Victoire and the Hotel du Vin & Bistro offer impeccable food in fabulous surroundings. They are joined by trendy dining venues such as The Treehouse and the aforementioned Happy Harry's. Foodies can indulge in a modern twist on a British classic with the finest fish and chips found at The Sardine Factory or Bivouac Barbecue for modern American eats.

The Lanes are a maze of old narrow alleyways in the heart of Brighton. They are named as such because throughout the 18 th century they were used to transport goods from the quay in front of the Royal Pavilion to merchants’ yards at the top of the hill. Little remains of this original function, but it has now become very popular with tourists who come for its stylish shops. The Lanes, Brighton is one of the United Kingdom’s most popular seaside resorts.

Established in the 1800s, The Lanes were first developed as an affluent residential area with many classical Victorian buildings. Its popularity with holidaymakers was immediate and continues to this day. The Lanes are full of stylish restaurants, pubs and interesting shops. The Lanes are named after the narrow laneways that twist and turn between the tall buildings dating back to the 14th century. It is one of the most popular shopping streets in all of Brighton and Hove, so whenever I’ve been it has always been full of people.

They hold a special place in my heart as they were where my boyfriend proposed to me. The Lanes are a maze of old narrow alleyways yielding a cornucopia of classy shops, restaurants and even the odd celeb. Jewellery and antique shops hang next to designer boutiques and gift shops, all meaning that you may want to flex your wallet. Although it is not a busy street, The Lanes are definitely worth exploring. Not everyone can afford to purchase goods on the Lanes, but just looking is really fun and is a great way to spend an hour or two.

Brighton Beach And Seafront

Wander under the red brick arches of Corn Exchange or visit the Royal Pavilion, built for George IV in 1823, a former palace embellished with Moorish and Chinese designs; its intricate mosaic floors are said to be inspired by the Persian palace of Sheerwan. Nearby, the elegant  Hyde Park Barracks houses restaurants, cafes and boutiques as well as the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery. The city is home to 25,000 students  and has been voted one of the happiest place to live.

Great for families too: 2 miles (3 km) south take a ride on the historic Golden Hinde Replica, housed at Shipwreck Museum that also houses Britain’s oldest lifeboat. Beach huts and deck chairs form a line along Marine Parade, Brighton’s seafront promenade. Its an iconic scene, full of character and colour, popular with both locals and visitors. A day in the sun watching the world goes by. At the pier you can watch as the fishing boats moor up.

Nearby, Fishing boats bob close to Brighton Pier at this end of the East Pier and all along here you can find Brighton village atmosphere at its best with shopping, dining and entertainment. You dont have to stray far on this bargain break to discover Britain's most fascinating seaside resort. The hotel is in the heart of Brighton just a short stroll from the beach and promenade that captures the vibrancy of the neighbouring commercial centre and cafe culture.

Its the perfect location for exploring this vibrant city, a shopping mecca for those who love boutique labels and home to unique boutique shops, artisan designer stores and quirky cafes. Grab a morning coffee from one of the Brighton cafes. Relax on a deckchair at sunny Portslade. Dine in style on South Downs Cuisine or follow the produce trail to some fishmongers, delicatessen and wine-bar for some local Sussex cider and fresh seafood. Take a stroll along the pier and be dazzled by the variety of stalls.

British Airways I360

The BAi360 opened in August this year and is an impressive addition to Brighton's coastline. It rises 450ft above the city and offers an aerial walkway that gives a 360 degree view of Brighton, Hove and Sussex. Im not generally one for heights but this makes it so you can enjoy the view from a distance. You don't even have to be frightened of the walkway as the pods hold four people in each. It gives you a unique perspective of the world in general, and especially that of Brighton, which has always been a beautiful and welcoming place for me.

The British Airways i360 is situated at the bottom of hill in Brighton on the south coast of England, and was built as a tourist attraction and observation tower. The UKs tallest moving observation tower has some incredible views of Brighton, the Sussex countryside, and along the coast to the southern coastline of England. Keegan and I had a great time seeing The BAi360. We know youre all burning to learn but were going to have to wait another year, at least, for it to be ready for public use.

As soon as its fully completed were going to make sure the family visits again. Greetings earthlings! I've made a video about my trip to Brighton and the opening of the British Airways i360. As you'll see, the weather wasn't great so we had to take an internal look at the pod in order for me to do a video. Take a look below. Catch a show at the Pavilion Theatre or the Winter Gardens, catch some rays or watch the world go by on one of the many benches on the Brighton beach.

The West Pier And Bandstand

The West Pier sits right at the western edge of Brighton's pleasure beach and is considered to be one of the most spectacular in Britain. Unlike your typical pier with fast food joints and a bar or two The West Pier is actually home to 5 restaurants including a Chinese, Indian, Fish and Chips, Sushi and a Seafood restaurant (More here). The pier theatre has been closed for decades but back in its heyday hosted some famous acts such as Stan Laurel and Charlie Chaplin.

I remember going to all of the above and being excited and scared at the same time as I was swinging upside down on a carousel or sitting in a boat with water shooting towards us. Those were days out of the ordinary for a Sunday afternoon in Brighton, but I loved them. I can’t wait to take my kids (if i get any) there all these years later. I remember the smell of fish and chips and candy floss being sold.

I also remember the fairground and the sound of laughing children coming from the ball slide. The West Pier always had something to do, something to see and somewhere to eat  . There was even a theatre where they used to show Monty Python films late at night on a Sunday. I’ve shared a few stories of my grandparents dancing in USQ and one here on Dating Divas before. There was also the time they played Bingo at the races with us grandkids.

Today, I am telling you the story of how my grandmother met her future husband down at Brighton West Pier. But sadly Brighton’s West Pier was destroyed in a devastating fire back in 2003. I do have fond memories of Christmas day spent visiting the Victorian Bandstand back in the 80s. This was close to the pier, and was a fun place to be on a hot summers day. Brighton is Coastal Cities youve never experienced before.

By Car

Theres plenty of parking in Brighton but it tends to get expensive closer to the seafront, as do the hotels. The train station is less than a 5 minute walk from the conference venue and therefore I'd recommend booking somewhere close by and getting the train in. The train journey down is about an hour from London Bridge and should cost approximately 18 pounds. I will be sharing more information on this in a future post.

You can get a train from London to Brighton in just over an hour. Theres plenty of trains every day meaning you cant go wrong with this option. This means that if you can get the train at a time when it doesnt conflict with your days schedule, Brighton could be your place for an all-day blogging meetup. The quickest way to get to Brighton from London is by train (about 45 minutes). Trains depart from London Victoria, London Bridge, Charing Cross and London Blackfriars.

If you are planning on going for a day trip then I would recommend using one of the stations closer to South East London. By Train. Brighton has its own train station and there are several direct trains running from London Victoria Station every day. You’re looking at anywhere between 1 and 2 hours depending on the time of day you travel and the service you use. By Train.  There are several trains an hour to Brighton from London Bridge, Victoria and St Pancras.

Brighton By Train

If you’re planning to go on a day trip to Brighton from London by train, this post is for you. I recently went on a day trip to Brighton from London and was surprised at how easy it was by train. The main thing to remember when taking a day trip to Brighton by train is that you need to do it during off-peak hours or else the trains will be too busy and it will take longer than expected.

I have written several other articles about Brighton such as Brighton Days Out, Best Hotels in Brighton and Others. But, today's article is a little different. It concentrates on how to get there and back from Brighton by Train from London. With so many things to do for a day out in Brighton, it’s great by train. It’s the perfect way to reach England’s most vibrant seaside city. And, if you plan carefully, you can even save 50% on admission prices.

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Eva Cloud

Author at Brighton Town Press

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