Things to Do in Brighton

Iconic Victorian pier stretching into the sea, with arcades, food stalls and wide promenades for walking. Entry to the pier itself costs nothing.

🕐 24 hours (arcades and shops vary, typically 10am–10pm)

💡 Go early on a weekday morning to dodge crowds and see the sunrise over the water. The best fish and chips are from the stall at the far end, not the one near the entrance.

A 162-metre observation tower offering panoramic views of the coast and city. Not free, but cheaper if you book online in advance.

🕐 10am–6pm (winter); 9am–8pm (summer)

💡 Book a slot on a clear day for the 5pm 'sunset' ticket (£12 adult, £9 child). The lift is glass-sided and takes 20 minutes up and down. Skip the champagne bar – it's overpriced.

Lush public gardens surrounding the Royal Pavilion, with lawns, flower beds and paths perfect for a picnic or a quiet rest.

🕐 Open 24 hours

💡 The south side has benches with a direct view of the Pavilion's domes, and the café there does decent coffee for under £2.50.

A 4-mile stretch of chalk cliffs and rolling downland just east of Brighton, with coastal walks and river access. Entry to the park is free; parking costs about £5 all day.

🕐 Open 24 hours (visitor centre 9am–5pm)

💡 Start at Exceat car park and walk the river path to the beach – it's flat and takes 40 minutes. The cliff-top path is steeper but gives you the classic photo spot. Avoid weekends if you hate crowds.

Free museum inside the Royal Pavilion's former stable block, with collections on local history, art and world cultures.

🕐 Tuesday–Sunday 10am–5pm (closed Mondays)

💡 The 'Brighton Stories' gallery on the ground floor gives you a quirky history of the town for free. The fashion gallery upstairs rotates regularly and often features local designers. No booking needed.