Things to Do in Brighton
Brighton is a seaside city that works in nearly any weather, with a long shingle beach on one side and a dense grid of independent streets on the other. Here is how to spend the time.
The seafront promenade
The seafront is a long, flat promenade with a pebble beach below it, cafes along it and views straight out to sea. It is the natural spine of a day in Brighton. In summer it is crowded at midday, so early or late is more peaceful. A coat helps, as the wind comes straight off the water even on bright afternoons. Walking its whole length takes well over an hour, so choose a stretch rather than trying to do all of it.
The seafront is a long, flat promenade with a pebble beach below it, cafes along it and views straight out to sea.
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Browsing the Lanes and North Laine
The Lanes are the old narrow alleys near the sea, full of small jewellers, bookshops and tucked away cafes. North Laine, a few minutes inland, is brighter and more colourful, with vintage and independent shops. Neither needs a plan. Wander, stop when something catches your eye, and drink coffee while you decide where to go next. In good weather the shops spill onto the pavements, and the passages are narrow, so expect to move slowly.
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Somewhere to book a room or a table for the evening, in Brighton itself.
Hove for a calmer stretch
Walk west along the front and the pace changes. Hove has wide, pale terraces, broad lawns beside the sea and a more settled feel. It is a pleasant place for a long lunch and a stroll, away from the heaviest crowds, and the promenade runs the whole way if you would rather walk than take the bus. Benches and cafes face the sea throughout.
Walk west along the front and the pace changes.
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Kemptown to the east
East of the centre, Kemptown has a street life of its own, with independent shops, cafes and a welcoming, varied crowd. It is worth the walk along the front or a short bus ride, and by day it is relaxed and easy to wander. Allow time to stop, because it is a district that rewards taking things slowly.
East of the centre, Kemptown has a street life of its own, with independent shops, cafes and a welcoming, varied crowd.
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Rain, hills and the Downs
When it rains, galleries, covered arcades, cafes and cinemas fill the gap. For a break from town, local buses climb onto the South Downs, with chalk hills and open grass, and trains run along the coast and inland to Lewes, a market town with steep old streets. Both are an easy half day.
When it rains, galleries, covered arcades, cafes and cinemas fill the gap.
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Station, taxis and an age note
Brighton station is a short downhill walk from the sea, and licensed taxis queue outside it. Trains to London run frequently, but check the final departure before you settle in anywhere. Only adults, meaning people of eighteen and over, should use this site, and a day out in Brighton is no exception.
Brighton station is a short downhill walk from the sea, and licensed taxis queue outside it.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes. The covered arcades, small galleries and cafes in the middle of town keep a rainy day pleasant, and the seafront is worth a brisk walk even when it is grey.
No. This is a general guide. TheDirectory does not book attractions, tables or tickets, so you settle any arrangements with the member you are talking to.
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