Charmingly eccentric. Funky. Vibrant. Brighton just keeps going from strength to strength. While it may be smaller than London, this delightful beachside city is every bit as cosmopolitan. Families and students, hippies and hipsters, drag queens and day-trippers, Brighton offers something for everyone. A mere hour away from the capital by train, the city is easy to access and provides the perfect opportunity to escape the bustle of London. Drop your bags and head to the seaside. Brighton Pier
Charmingly eccentric. Funky. Vibrant. Brighton just keeps going from strength to strength. While it may be smaller than London, this delightful beachside city is every bit as cosmopolitan. Families and students, hippies and hipsters, drag queens and day-trippers, Brighton offers something for everyone. A mere hour away from the capital by train, the city is easy to access and provides the perfect opportunity to escape the bustle of London. Drop your bags and head to the seaside. Brighton Pier
Things to Do in Brighton
Let’s face it — a trip to Brighton is going to centre on the seaside. And there’s more than enough to see and do on the beachfront to keep the day tourist occupied for 12 hours. Stroll down to the Pier for postcard-perfect views, candy floss, amusement arcades and all the whimsical delights you would expect from an English seaside holiday. The nearby British Airways i360 Tower is the world’s tallest moving observation tower, looming large over the Brighton skyline and serving as the city’s very own ‘vertical pier’. On a clear day, you can enjoy unparalleled views over the city, as well the Downs and Beachy Head. And of course, there’s the beach itself — soak up the Regency architecture, check out the beachside bars and settle down for a perfect day at the seaside.
Perhaps Brighton’s most iconic attraction, the Royal Pavillion served as the pleasure dome of George IV, and is one of the most sumptuous and extravagant buildings in the country. Built between 1787–1823 in the fashionable Mughal style, expect a stunning Banqueting Room, oriental paintings and thousands of exotic treasures to keep you occupied. It even hosts weddings, in case any love birds among you are interested…
Places to Eat in Brighton
For quality prices and even more quality food, look no further than Gingerman. Arguably the jewel in Brighton’s culinary crown, Gingerman offers no-frills, flavourful European cuisine using some of the best locally -sourced ingredients in town. This charming eatery is high on the bucket list of most local foodies, and in terms of value, the fixed-price menu is difficult to beat.
If you’re hankering for a real slice of Americana, then Compass Point Eatery is the one for you. This charming little venue is perhaps best known for its mouth-watering brunch (think proper American pancakes, crisp streaky bacon, the works), but the wider menu doesn’t disappoint either. Given its size, Compass Point can often book up rapidly, so its better to get a reservation in advance — believe us, you won’t be disappointed.
We know, we know. We’re by the sea. What half-decent guide would miss out a truly spectacular local seafood joint? Well, if you’re looking for a marine main in Brighton, then The Regency is the best around. A pillar of local fine dining, the menu is fresh and caters to every taste. Traditional fish and chips, baked oysters with Parmesan and local catches of the day, The Regency is most definitely the plaice to be (sorry).
Best Pubs in Brighton
As you would expect, Brighton boasts some of the most bohemian watering holes in the country. Bars, beerhalls, burlesque — it’s all here. The Lion and Lobster is an iconic, traditional pub with over 500 years of history under its belt. With many cosy nooks and an astounding range of beer, The Lion and Lobster will definitely suit the tastes of those looking for the classic British pub experience
In keeping with Brighton’s strong associations with luxury and debauchery, The Mesmerist is kitted out in the style of a 1920s gin palace, and hosts regular prohibition-themed parties. Known for its lively atmosphere, regular discos and smashing cocktails, The Mesmerist is a favourite haunt of Brighton’s many night owls.
Closer to the Pier, you can find Northern Lights, a former fisherman’s cottage in the Lanes with delightful Scandinavian decor. Northern Lights really is a memorable and atmospheric venue — sample one of their two dozen flavoured vodkas, or for those feeling slightly more adventurous (we are in Brighton after all…), they also offer a menu that includes sauteed reindeer. Poor Rudolph.
Stasher Recommendations
Whenever the team can make it down to Brighton, a stroll through the famous Lanes is always on the agenda. This historic, winding maze of streets in the heart of town is home to the nation’s largest concentration of independent boutiques, restaurants, and shops (over 300 of them). Nowhere reflects the ethos of Brighton better than The Lanes, whether you’re looking to nab some bargain vintage clothing, browse some antiques or enjoy an atmospheric, al fresco meal on the East Street square. Keep your eyes peeled for Banksy’s iconic ‘Kissing Policemen’ too…
Luggage Storage in Brighton
Want to bumble around Brighton baggage-free? We have a range of local StashPoints to cater to your needs, from the Brighton and Hove stations to the beachfront and in the city itself.
