Brighton Beach, located on England’s southern coast, is one of the country’s best known seaside destinations. Part of the city of Brighton and Hove, the beach has been attracting visitors for centuries.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend escape, a day trip from London, or a traditional beachside experience with a bunch of fun activities for the kids, Brighton Beach has something for everyone.
Brighton Beach: History
Brighton wasn’t always the popular city it is today. It started off as a quiet fishing village. That changed in the 18th century when people started believing that sea air and saltwater had health benefits. This led to an increase of visitors from London and other parts of the country. One of the biggest turning points came when the Prince Regent (later King George IV) started spending time there. He eventually had the Royal Pavilion built, a grand beautiful palace near the seafront that’s still one of Brighton’s main attractions.
As travel by train became easier in the 19th century, Brighton quickly grew into a popular holiday spot for people of all backgrounds. Over time, the beach became known not just for the sea and fresh air, but for entertainment, nightlife, and a fun, relaxed environment.
What to Expect at Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is a pebble beach, not a sandy one. That might surprise some people, but it doesn’t stop anyone from setting up a picnic or going for a swim in the warmer months. The pebbles are smooth and clean, and the water is usually clear, especially on sunny days.
There are deck chairs to rent, ice cream stalls, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view. You’ll often find groups of friends hanging out, families playing by the water, and visitors just taking in the sea breeze. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back.
One of the biggest beach attractions is the Brighton Palace Pier, which has been around since 1899. It’s one of the last remaining traditional piers in the UK and still has a bit of an old-school aesthetic. There are arcade games, amusement rides, and stalls selling things like fish and chips, candyfloss, and doughnuts.
Walking down the pier is a must, even if you’re not into the rides. The views of the coast and the city are great, and there’s usually something going on, from live music to street performers. The seafront is full of things to do. There are cafes, pubs, and small shops tucked under the arches of the old promenade. Local artists often sell their work here, and there’s no shortage of food options, from classic British fish and chips to international dishes. You can even grab a nice cool slushy when the sun is out.
If you keep walking west, you’ll eventually reach Hove, a quieter part of the city that still shares the beach. It’s more residential and relaxed, but just as scenic. The Hove Lawns are a good spot for a picnic or a game of frisbee, and the famous painted beach huts line the edge of the promenade.
Read more: A Guide to Brighton’s Naturist Beach
The West Pier and the i360
You’ll also notice the remains of the old West Pier, which was badly damaged by storms and fires. It’s no longer in use, but it has become a historic part of the landscape.
Right next to it is the Brighton i360, a modern observation tower that takes you up in a glass pod for breathtaking views of the area. It’s a newer addition to the seafront and gives you a unique way to see the city, the sea, and even the countryside beyond.
While the beach is the main attraction, Brighton itself has a lot going on. The Lanes is made up of narrow streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and antique stores. It’s just a short walk from the beach. Notoriously easy to get lost in, The Lanes is fun spot to visit with friends after a sunny day out at Brighton beach.
The Royal Pavilion is another must-see. It looks almost out of place with its Indian-style domes and Chinese-inspired interiors, but that’s what makes it so interesting. Built for King George IV, it’s now open to the public and offers a look into Brighton’s royal past.
For those who enjoy nightlife, Brighton has plenty to offer. The beachfront clubs (such as Horizon, Arch, Pryzm etc), live music venues, and pubs stay busy well into the evening. It’s known for its inclusive, exciting social scene, and there’s usually something happening any night of the week.
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Brighton hosts a number of events and festivals. The Brighton Festival in May is one of the biggest arts festivals in the UK, featuring music, theatre, dance, and more. There’s also Pride Weekend, which draws huge crowds every summer and is one of the most celebrated LGBTQ+ events in the country.
On sunny weekends, the beach can get packed, especially during festivals, but it only adds to the atmosphere. There’s a strong sense of community and celebration in Brighton that sets it apart from other coastal towns.
One of the best things about Brighton is how easy it is to reach. It’s just about an hour by train from London, with regular services running throughout the day. Once you arrive, most of the main attractions, including the beach, the pier, and the Lanes, are within walking distance. If you’re driving, parking can be tricky (and expensive), especially on busy days, so the train is often the easiest option.
Brighton Beach combines traditional British seaside experience with modern culture. You still get the fish and chips, the deck chairs, and the piers but you also get art galleries, live music, vegetarian cafes, and sustainable shops.
It’s a place where you can relax by the water during the day and catch a gig or comedy show at night. Brighton’s strong sense of community and welcoming nature is guaranteed to have you leaving the beach with a whole group of new friends.
Address: 183 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 1NA
Website: Welcome to Brighton Palace Pier
