The English seaside resort of Brighton is hugely popular – in 2018 it welcomed some 11 million visitors who made some 9.5 million day trips, according to Brighton and Hove council figures cited by Brighton and Hove News.
It’s easy to see why. The destination offers amazing walks, night outs, festivals and shops; all ready to be enjoyed amidst the artistic and welcoming surrounds of this lovingly eccentric locale. But what are the five best reasons why you should head over this summer?
Stunning Walks at the Seven Sisters
Rivalling the White Cliffs of Dover, the Seven Sisters is a series of chalk cliffs located close to Brighton between Seaford and Eastbourne. There are lots of things to do around the cliffs, from cycling to bird watching, to even stargazing, but a good country walk is a great plan for day trippers.
Delicious seafood restaurants
Set on the lapping shores of the East Sussex coast, Brighton is understandably a haven for seafood lovers. From institutions like Riddle & Finns on The Lanes, which boasts a huge selection of fish and shellfish, to the haute-ier Little Fish Market and its triple-rosetted tasting menus, there’s plenty to surf during your trip in the city.
An amazing live music scene
Brighton’s music scene is world-renowned. Venues like The Brunswick, Hope and Ruin, Casablanca and many, many others provide fertile ground for hundreds of local bands, and big venues such as the Brighton Centre and Brighton Dome bring in big names too.
There are lots of festivals to get stuck into as well, including the Brighton Festival, Brighton Fringe, The Great Escape, and Boundary Brighton. So, whether you’re enjoying a stay down the coast at the likes of Bognor Regis or the Isle of Wight, or catching a train from the countryside near Barnham, Arundel, or Lewes, there’s plenty of musical entertainment in Brighton you can fit into your itinerary.
Refreshing wild swimming at Brighton Beach
If you’re a confident swimmer, there are places all along Brighton’s seafront to jump into the chilly channel waters and enjoy a splash around with friends and family. Just make sure to follow the council’s swimming advice on tides and weather – conditions can get a little choppy!
Exciting shopping session in North Laine
Brighton’s most bohemian quarter, North Laine has loads to offer by the way of bars and restaurants, but it’s its boutiques, stalls, and vintage shops that draw the most crowds. Make sure to get down early in the morning to grab a one-of-a-kind bargain.