Brighton Vacations

1. Brighton Palace Pier

First stop on any Brighton vacation: Brighton Palace Pier. The city’s beloved icon, and a throwback to the heyday of Victorian vacations. A sturdy old beaut, there’s more to her than meets the eye, having survived several storms as well as a period of bombing by the German Luftwaffe in the Second World War! Nowadays, this 1722-foot pier is all about light-hearted fun. So, wander along the planks, and try your hand at one of the arcades, or let your inner child run wild on one of the nostalgic fairground attractions. And if you’re hungry, there’s always the ‘chippy’ vans for some good old traditional fish and chips, or if you want something sweeter, follow your nose to the cotton candy kiosk—a tour of Brighton’s seaside wouldn’t be complete without it!

2. The Lanes

The Lanes are one of our all-time favourite attractions, and a must-do on any Brighton tour! Meander along these charming, flag-decorated streets, and give yourself plenty of time to check out the independent record shops, cafés, bookstores and art spaces. As the ‘happening’ part of Brighton, this is the perfect spot to enjoy people watching from one of the city's best pubs, among the gorgeous 16th century buildings. Or, why not take the opportunity to pick up a couple of thoughtful gifts for friends and family back home—perhaps a vintage shirt, or a piece of art by a local artist? And of course, while you’re at it...treat yourself to something special too!

3. Royal Pavilion

Located in the heart of Brighton, this stunning neoclassical villa was originally designed as a seaside pleasure palace for King George IV in the late 1700s. However, it has also seen days as a civic building, and more notably, as a hospital in the First World War: In 1914, it served as a hospital for injured Indian troops for a couple of years, before it saw days as a hospital for British troops that had lost limbs between 1916-1920. With its beautiful spires and bulb-like domes, the Royal Pavilion stands out from the surrounding buildings for its ‘Indo-Saracenic’ architecture style, and is likened to the Taj Mahal in India. A fascinating stop for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike!

4. British Airways i360

High tea, anyone? All (terrible) puns aside—we’re pretty darn excited about the British Airways i360. Enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake from the top of this 490-foot tower, and take in the impressive panoramic views of the town, as well as the Channel. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Isle of Wight!

5. Madeira Lift

Want to get off the beaten path during your Brighton vacation? Then check out the Madeira Lift, a great find for any urban-explorer. The old public lift is a go-between that connects the Marine Parade with Madeira Drive. Mint green and peach-coloured paint has chipped off the walls, and peeled off the metal handrails, to create a beautiful relic, and charming backdrop for a photo opportunity. On entering it, you’ll meet an attendant who will happily take you up and down the lift—but be sure to hold on tight, it’s pretty rickety! Less