Brighton has grown from a small fishing village on the south coast to a lively city often called ‘London by the sea’. It certainly attracts Londoners with its seaside appeal, but there’s a lot more to this amazing city than sea and sand.
Take a step back in time
You’ll still find interesting relics of Brighton’s past as a humble fishing port. Head down to the vaults under the Promenade between the two piers to browse the boats and fresh fish stalls. This colourful area is also a goldmine for culture. Plenty of cafes selling delicious seafood and galleries full of nautical art and craft.
The original fishing village was transformed when young members of the Royal family built an extravagant palace by the sea here 250 years ago. It was a perfect retreat from London for the young aristocrats. You can still visit their amazing Royal Pavilion in the city centre, complete with its exotic domes, outrageous ornaments and lavish interior decorations.
Exploring 21st century Brighton
A short walk along the Promenade, the Brighton Wheel offers a smaller, more sedate rotation in a gondola, letting you gaze at the city from a slightly-less-scary 160ft.
The city is one of the UKs hotspots for modern, alternative culture. Expect to find a long list of exciting bands and DJs available every night here. There are scores of galleries featuring up-and-coming artists and you’ll even find some of the best of today’s street performers too.
Sample the local fashion and cuisine
Brighton has several busy conventional shopping areas but it has become famous for offering some of Britain’s quirkiest shopping too. To find them, head for the two areas called the North and South Laines. These narrow pedestrian alleys are lined with an array of strange and quirky shops, stalls and traders selling everything from antique jewellery to handmade high heel shoes covered in flowers.
Dotted in and around all the little shops, Brighton has an enormous array of cafes, bars and restaurants. In a city that caters for so many students, alternative, young people and visitors, it’s perhaps not surprising that you’ll be able to enjoy numerous cuisines, everything from gourmet seafood to budget ethnic menus.
