This past weekend, I was sea coast bound with some new friends and my love. Just a short hour train ride away, Brighton beckoned us and we made a day trip out of it - so fun!
I had no expectations, other than randomly hearing Brighton mentioned in some pop songs years ago, and seeing the odd nod to it in pop culture / books / movies / etc. The town (well, really a city) was interesting and very contrasting. The beach was pebbled and the water too cold to swim. The beachfront had the beautiful scenery and rolling ocean, alongside bright and flashing lights of a carnival. There were 'The Lanes' which contained a number of interesting and adorable cafes, bars (or pubs!), shops and restaurants.
Here is my collection of spots worth visiting when you head to Brighton.
Enjoy!
5. Brighton Pier
So iconic, so run down, so beautiful and odd in a bare bones meet flashy carnival sense. It was loud, bright, crowded, and incredible. It's sort of one of those 'duh' places to go but no trip to Brighton would be complete without it. Seagulls were super forward and unafriad, and I enjoyed watching the sea-doers out on the water splashing around and doing tricks.
4. The Regency
Renowned fish and chips place on the beachfront. I don't eat fish, but everyone in my party ordered some and raved about the tastiness. Something tells me there's no shortage of good seafood in Brighton, though, so you're probably safe with any choice!
3. Lancing (?)
Okay, so I didn't actually get this far, but before arriving I knew there were sandy beaches west of Brighton. We set off on a walk to find these hidden gems, but only ever saw pebbles. At a park in Hove, where we took a break and ate a giant picnic, we got chatting with a lady who lives in Brighton. She told us there are lovely sandy beaches some miles west of Hove and that we can take a city bus there in little time. I highly recommend seeking these beaches out, especially on a beautiful and warm summer day where you might even do a little swimming!
2. Cloud 9
Tucked away in 'The Lanes' is an ice cream/bakery/cafe that you must visit! They have gluten free options for those so inclined, and a delicious selection of baked goods, ice cream and sorbet. They will make 'Franken-sundaes' (I think that's what they're called?), which are giant stacks of ice cream, sauce and sweetness - a Sundae on steroids basically. They will make you customised milkshakes with your ice cream flavour of choice. But, ultimately, the whimsical and colourful decor is what attracted me there. And the giant, pastel-hued canvases on the wall are eye-catching and beautifully distracting.
1. The Palace
There was a giant palace in the middle of Brighton, that was gorgeous and designed after Indian palaces. It was surrounded by a sprawling garden of many flowers and large plants. I don't remember its name, but it was hands down my favourite part of Brighton. So incongruous with a British seaside city, and I felt like I was somewhere far more exotic as I strolled around the grounds. Many, MANY picture opportunities. I think you can do tours as well, but even hanging on the outside was a lovely experience.
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