Things to Do in Brighton and Hove

Things to Do in Brighton and Hove

Brighton and Hove, a vibrant seaside city on England’s south coast, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal charm. Strolling along the iconic Brighton Pier, with the sea breeze and the sound of waves, feels like stepping into a classic British seaside holiday. Known as “London-by-the-Sea,” this city, just an hour from London by train, offers a rich tapestry of experiences for families, couples, solo travelers, and groups. From the exotic Royal Pavilion to the bohemian North Laine, Brighton and Hove is celebrated for its inclusive atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and diverse communities.

Its history as a health resort since the 18th century, combined with modern festivals like Brighton Pride, ensures there’s something for everyone. Join us as we guide you through the best activities in Brighton and Hove, promising memories to cherish for years.

Indoor Activities for Rainy Days

Brighton and Hove’s unpredictable weather is no barrier to fun, thanks to its array of indoor attractions. Below are five family-friendly options to keep everyone entertained on rainy days, each offering unique experiences and practical details.

Royal Pavilion

Step into the opulent world of King George IV at this exotic palace, featuring stunning Chinese-inspired interiors and lush gardens. The banqueting hall and music room showcase intricate designs, while audio guides provide historical insights.

• Suitability: Ideal for history enthusiasts and families; audio guides engage older children and adults.
• Practical Details: Admission is £19.50 for adults, with discounts for children and families. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:45 PM (last admission 5:00 PM). Located at 4/5 Pavilion Buildings, easily accessible by foot from Brighton Station. Book via Royal Pavilion.
• Special Features: The only royal palace in the UK with such eclectic Indo-Saracenic architecture, offering a glimpse into Regency extravagance.

Sea Life Brighton

Explore the world’s oldest operating aquarium, home to over 5,500 sea creatures, including sharks, turtles, and rays. Interactive exhibits and a glass-bottom boat ride make it a thrilling experience.

• Suitability: Perfect for families, with engaging displays for children and educational talks for all ages.
• Practical Details: Tickets start at £20 for adults, with online discounts. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Located on Marine Parade, a short walk from the city center. Book via Sea Life Brighton.
• Special Features: Features a Victorian arcade and daily feeding demonstrations, enhancing the underwater adventure.

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Discover Brighton’s history through diverse collections, including fashion, fine art, and local exhibits like “Queer the Pier” and “Ancient Egypt.” The museum’s eclectic displays appeal to varied interests.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages; free entry for under-18s makes it family-friendly.
• Practical Details: Admission is £9.50 for adults, free for Brighton residents. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Located in Royal Pavilion Gardens, accessible by bus or foot. Visit Brighton Museum.
• Special Features: Rotating exhibitions and a vibrant gift shop add to the cultural experience.

Booth Museum of Natural History

This museum features an extensive collection of taxidermy, fossils, and interactive displays, offering insights into the natural world. Victorian dioramas bring history to life.

• Suitability: Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, with hands-on exhibits for children.
• Practical Details: Free entry; open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Located at 194 Dyke Road, reachable by bus from the city center. Check Booth Museum.
• Special Features: Home to over 500,000 specimens, including a notable bird collection.

Brighton Toy and Model Museum

A delightful museum showcasing over 10,000 toys and models, including rare trains and vintage dolls, housed in a historic railway arch.

• Suitability: Fun for children and adults nostalgic for childhood toys.
• Practical Details: Admission is £7 for adults, £4 for children. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Located at 52-55 Trafalgar Street, under Brighton Station. Visit Brighton Toy Museum.
• Special Features: Features working model railways and interactive displays, sparking joy for all ages.

These indoor attractions ensure rainy days in Brighton and Hove are filled with discovery, education, and fun, all within accessible venues.

Outdoor Adventures

Brighton and Hove’s coastal setting and green spaces offer endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Below are five activities to enjoy on pleasant days, highlighting the city’s natural beauty and active lifestyle.

Brighton Beach and Palace Pier

Relax on the iconic pebble beach or enjoy the amusements on Brighton Palace Pier, a historic landmark since 1899. From arcade games to fairground rides, it’s a quintessential seaside experience.

• Suitability: Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers; lifeguards ensure safety in summer.
• Practical Details: Beach access is free; pier attractions vary in cost (rides from £2). Open year-round, with extended summer hours. Located on Madeira Drive, walkable from the city center.
• Special Features: Offers stunning views of the English Channel and classic seaside treats like fish and chips.

British Airways i360

Ascend 138 meters in a glass viewing pod for panoramic views of Brighton, Hove, and the South Downs. The observation tower is a modern addition to the seafront.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages; wheelchair-accessible.
• Practical Details: Tickets start at £16.50 for adults, with child discounts. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Located at Lower Kings Road. Book via British Airways i360.
• Special Features: The world’s tallest moving observation tower, offering unique coastal vistas.

Preston Park

Brighton’s largest urban park features gardens, sports facilities, a velodrome, and a rockery garden, making it ideal for relaxation or recreation.

• Suitability: Great for families, sports enthusiasts, and picnickers; playgrounds for children.
• Practical Details: Free entry; open daily. Located at Preston Road, accessible by bus from Brighton Station. Visit Preston Park.
• Special Features: Hosts major events like Brighton Pride and features seasonal flower displays.

Hove Lagoon

This man-made saltwater lagoon offers water sports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, with calm waters perfect for beginners.

• Suitability: Ideal for adventure seekers and families; lessons available for all skill levels.
• Practical Details: Equipment rentals and lessons start at £15. Open year-round, weather permitting. Located at Kingsway, Hove, reachable by bus. Check Lagoon Watersports.
• Special Features: A safe, family-friendly environment with qualified instructors and a nearby café.

South Downs Way

This national trail, starting near Brighton, offers hiking and cycling through the scenic South Downs National Park, with rolling hills and historic sites.

• Suitability: Best for hikers and cyclists; trails vary from easy to challenging.
• Practical Details: Free access; maps available via South Downs National Park. Start points like Ditchling Beacon are a short bus ride from Brighton.
• Special Features: Rich in flora, fauna, and archaeological sites, offering breathtaking views.

These outdoor adventures highlight Brighton and Hove’s scenic beauty and vibrant lifestyle, perfect for sunny days.

Historical and Cultural Sites

Brighton and Hove’s rich heritage shines through its historical landmarks and cultural institutions. Below are four must-visit sites that connect visitors to the city’s storied past.

Royal Pavilion

Built for King George IV, this exotic palace features Indo-Saracenic architecture and lavish interiors, reflecting Brighton’s royal connections. Its transformation by John Nash between 1815 and 1822 makes it a cultural icon.

• Suitability: Essential for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts; suitable for all ages.
• Practical Details: See Indoor Activities for details.
• Special Features: A unique blend of Indian and Chinese design, unmatched in the UK.

Preston Manor

This charming Edwardian manor house offers a glimpse into early 20th-century life with period rooms, servants’ quarters, and beautiful gardens.

• Suitability: Great for history enthusiasts and families; guided tours engage all ages.
• Practical Details: Admission is around £10 for adults, with family tickets available. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Located at Preston Drove, accessible by bus. Visit Preston Manor.
• Special Features: Known for its ghostly tales and Edwardian ambiance.

Hove Museum & Art Gallery

Housed in a Victorian villa, this museum showcases decorative arts, toys, and local history, including a film archive and a wizard’s attic exhibit.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages; interactive displays for children.
• Practical Details: Free entry; open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Located at 19 New Church Road, Hove, reachable by bus. Check Hove Museum.
• Special Features: A lesser-known gem with a focus on Hove’s cinematic history.

West Blatchington Windmill

A six-sided smock mill from the 1820s, this working windmill offers insights into milling history with demonstrations and a small museum.

• Suitability: Ideal for families and history buffs; best for older children due to stairs.
• Practical Details: Admission is around £3 for adults, £1.50 for children. Open Sundays and bank holidays, 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM. Located at Holmes Avenue, West Blatchington. Visit West Blatchington Windmill.
• Special Features: One of the few working windmills in the region, offering a hands-on historical experience.

These sites connect visitors to Brighton and Hove’s rich heritage, blending history with cultural significance.

Food and Culinary Experiences

Brighton and Hove’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of traditional British fare and international flavors, with a strong emphasis on vegetarian and vegan options. Here are three standout experiences that showcase the city’s food culture.

Brighton Food Tours

These guided walking tours take you through Brighton’s culinary hotspots, sampling local delicacies from seafood to artisanal desserts. Guides share insights into the city’s food history and culture.

• Suitability: Perfect for foodies and those wanting a cultural exploration; suitable for all ages.
• Practical Details: Tours cost around £60 per person and last about 3 hours. Book via Brighton Food Tours.
• Special Features: Offers tastings at multiple venues, highlighting Brighton’s diverse food scene.

Terre a Terre

This award-winning vegetarian restaurant is renowned for its innovative plant-based dishes, such as “Better Batter” tempura vegetables and “KFC” (Korean Fried Cauliflower). Its stylish setting enhances the dining experience.

• Suitability: Ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and adventurous eaters; kid-friendly options available.
• Practical Details: Located at 71 East Street; mains start at £15. Open for lunch and dinner; reservations recommended via Terre a Terre.
• Special Features: Celebrated for its creative presentation and bold flavors, a leader in Brighton’s vegan scene.

Fish and Chips on Brighton Pier

Enjoy traditional fish and chips while taking in sea views, a quintessential British seaside experience. Multiple vendors offer fresh, crispy fish and golden chips.

• Suitability: Suitable for all; a must-try for visitors seeking classic fare.
• Practical Details: Prices around £10 per portion. Open daily, with extended summer hours. Located on Brighton Palace Pier.
• Special Features: Iconic dining with the backdrop of the English Channel and lively pier atmosphere.

These culinary experiences invite visitors to savor Brighton and Hove’s diverse and inclusive food culture, from guided tours to casual seaside meals.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Brighton and Hove’s vibrant event calendar brings the city to life year-round. Below are three notable festivals for 2025, offering cultural immersion and festive fun.

Brighton Festival

England’s largest curated multi-arts festival, held from May 3 to May 26, 2025, features theater, music, dance, and visual arts across various venues. It showcases both local and international talent.

• Suitability: Suitable for all ages, with many family-friendly events and performances.
• Practical Details: Ticket prices vary; many events are free. Check Brighton Festival for schedules and bookings.
• Special Features: Curated by a guest director each year, offering a unique and diverse program.

Brighton Fringe

Running from May 2 to June 1, 2025, this open-access festival showcases emerging artists with over 1,000 events, including comedy, cabaret, and theater, across the city.

• Suitability: Diverse offerings for all interests; some events suitable for families.
• Practical Details: Many events are free; ticketed shows start at £5. Visit Brighton Fringe for details.
• Special Features: A platform for new talent, with performances in unique venues like pubs and pop-up spaces.

Brighton & Hove Pride

One of the UK’s largest LGBTQ+ events, held on August 2–3, 2025, features a colorful parade, live music, and community celebrations, drawing thousands to Preston Park and beyond.

• Suitability: Open to all, celebrating diversity and inclusion; family-friendly areas available.
• Practical Details: The parade is free; concert tickets vary. Check Brighton Pride for updates.
• Special Features: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and performances by top artists, fostering community spirit.

These festivals highlight Brighton and Hove’s cultural richness, making any visit a lively and memorable experience.

Brighton and Hove offers a remarkable array of experiences, from its historic Royal Pavilion and scenic beach to its vibrant festivals and diverse culinary scene. Whether you’re a family enjoying the pier, a couple exploring the Lanes, or a solo traveler immersing in the arts, this city caters to all. Voted one of the UK’s top 10 seaside cities, Brighton and Hove blends its rich history as an 18th-century health resort with modern inclusivity. Pack your bags and explore this coastal gem—you’ll leave with stories to share and memories to treasure.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Brighton and Hove?

Summer (June–August) is ideal for beach activities and festivals like Brighton Pride, while spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer milder weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring attractions like the South Downs Way.

Is Brighton and Hove suitable for families with young children?

Absolutely! Family-friendly attractions like Brighton Palace Pier, Sea Life Brighton, and Preston Park’s playgrounds ensure fun for kids, with many free or low-cost options available.

How much does a day in Brighton and Hove cost?

A day in Brighton and Hove can cost £10–£50 per person, depending on activities and dining. Free attractions like the beach and Booth Museum keep costs low, while paid sites like the Royal Pavilion cost around £20.

What are the top free activities in Brighton and Hove?

Enjoy walking Brighton Beach, exploring the Lanes and North Laine, visiting the Booth Museum, admiring the West Pier ruins, or strolling Hove’s Regency squares.

How do I get around Brighton and Hove?

The city’s compact center is walkable, with buses and trains connecting Hove and further areas. Bike rentals are available for exploring the seafront or South Downs.

Are there indoor activities in Brighton and Hove for rainy days?

Yes, options like the Royal Pavilion, Sea Life Brighton, Brighton Museum, Booth Museum, and Brighton Toy and Model Museum provide engaging indoor escapes.

What makes Brighton and Hove unique compared to other UK cities?

Its seaside location, vibrant arts scene, and historic landmarks like the Royal Pavilion set it apart, earning it the nickname “London-by-the-Sea.

Can I find budget-friendly dining in Brighton and Hove?

Definitely! From fish and chips on the pier (£10) to street food in the Lanes and affordable cafes in North Laine, there are many budget-friendly options.

Are there guided tours in Brighton and Hove?

Yes, guided tours include walking tours of the Lanes, food tours, and historical tours of sites like the Royal Pavilion.

What are some must-see attractions in Brighton and Hove?

Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Palace Pier, British Airways i360, Preston Manor, Hove Museum, and the South Downs Way for a complete experience.