Too often visits to seaside towns and cities such as Brighton, are underwhelming and lend when the luxury of sand is lacking, simply laying on the beach the whole day isn’t really an option, and is just scratching the service of what the beach has to offer.
On the Beachfront alone there are over a hundred shops, activities or curiosities to enjoy that would make your trip much better than just watching the waves and mingling with the Seagulls.
But where to start? With so much it’s easy to miss things that you might have loved, and looking into it ahead of time, most sites list the obvious.
They list the pier without much detail, and they mention fish and chips and maybe a couple more engaging activities like mini golf or the i360, but there’s a truly overwhelming amount of enjoyment to be had at Brighton Beach, far beyond the typical list inclusions.
Ahead is just some of what Brighton’s Seafront has to offer, as even with a list as comprehensive as this, there’s plenty to discover for yourself.
1. The Pier
Impossible to miss, the pier is a hub of activity, with millions of families making great memories here every year. It stretches 1722 feet out to sea and is considered by many as the best pier in England. It’s often packed on a sunny day but can make for a vibrant and exciting day out.
Even before you consider the variety of entertainment on offer, the views make for a wonderful sight, with the beach spanning either side of you, views stretching infinitely on a good day, with the Wind turbines that help keep Brighton running visible on clearer days.
Restaurant/food at the Pier
The pier is packed with a host of sweet treats and fast food, any food-related guilty pleasure is surely catered for. From Crepes to Brighton Rock, Hotdogs and even stonebaked pizza, be prepared for your kids or your partner to beg for one of the many tempting treats on offer.
The pier even has a restaurant, it’s quite pricey for what it is, but if you have a bigger budget there’s some good cocktails and seaside comfort food, however, if you’re looking for value you won’t find much here.
Brighton Pier Arcade
Easily the biggest arcade I’ve seen on a pier, the entertainment here is so big, that they have had to split the Arcade into two separate buildings. The second marked the start of the amusements at the end of the Pier.
I’ve spent too many days losing track of time with some friends here. It’s impossible to resist Pacman Fever Ice hockey and Guitar Hero, and I’m quite embarrassed to admit I once went through £40 between two people on the Guitar Hero Machine. There are many Arcade classics and of course, games to win tickets and prizes on, such as the fabled yet feared claw game that has led to many misspent wallets.
Parlour games
Classics such as the Dolphin Race, Hook a Duck, Tin Can Alley and more, allow you to win yourself or a loved one a cuddly prize. I often find success through the football sideshow, in which you are tasked with simply getting a football through one of the many holes. It takes accuracy and composure, but anybody with even a little experience kicking a football has a chance. Being the most skill-based game, it’s probably the best way to win prizes.
The Best Rides on Brighton Pier
Turbo
One of the most exciting rides on the pier is Turbo and we’d recommend it for any thrill-seekers. Multiple steep drops, wide arching bends and a Loop to top it off. Set against the backdrop of the infinite expanse of Sea and Sky, it can be easy to lose sense of which way is up.
Booster
Does Turbo seem a little underwhelming? Well for those numb to danger, The Booster will strike fear and excitement in even the most hardened theme park veteran. Standing 40 metres tall, The Booster sets two small groups of people at either end and rotates at tremendous speed. It’s located right at the end of the pier, leaving you dangling over 60 metres above the Sea, only one place to go if you are flung from your restraints.
Perhaps the scariest part of the ride is the agonising wait. In order to load both ends full of people, one group must spend minutes suspended around 200 feet in the air waiting for the terror to start.
For many, a wait may seem detrimental to the experience, but I think it serves to only add to the thrill, the inexorable build of suspense as you have no way of backing out, fear and anticipation building to an almost unbearable peak before the ride swings into action, it’s pendulous arm spinning with wild abandon. In short, it’s $@&%*ing terrifying.
Wild River
There’s not much to say about the Wild River, but it’s still one of the best rides. It’s your classic Log Flume, great on a sunny day, or a rainy day if you really like water.
For info on everything else on the pier, check out the Brighton Pier website.
2. Captain’s Famous Fish and Chips
A classic British Fish and Chip shop, Captains is the best place for that salty, battered delight that has become synonymous with the UK. Always cooked to order, the fish is as fresh as battered fish can be. And when it comes to the batter… You won’t find better.
Crispy, golden, the perfect crunch followed by the tantalisingly succulent flaky fish inside. The chips are light with a fluffy interior, not overly turgid like so many other establishments.
Perfect with a side of mushy peas, or some chip shop curry sauce. For the fish averse, they offer all the other classic seaside options. Pies, sausages, and chicken nuggets, all holding the same high quality as the fish and chips.
It’s everything you want in a Fish and Chip place. The food is delicious, the portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable. Combine the quality with their fast service, and cosy atmosphere and you have a nigh unbeatable haven of Seaside stalwarts.
Website: www.captainsbrighton.co.uk
3. Oh So Social
A beachside family-friendly, café/bar great for a bite to eat and a cold cocktail on a sunny day. Their outdoor bubbles that encompass the outdoor tables and seats mean that you can enjoy the luxury of eating and drinking outside no matter how bad the weather is.
Website: www.ohsobrighton.co.uk
4. Brighton’s Beach Front Zipline!
Along Brighton Beach runs a massive Zipline stretching over 300 metres across the seafront. Boasting excitement and beauty, it’s no wonder it’s one of Brighton’s most popular attractions.
Starting from atop a 30-metre-tall tower, a panoramic view of the South Coast will no doubt be secondary to the thrilling descent. It’s expensive but there is little that can compete with a gravity-led ride along the beach, looking out to the horizon as the sun begins to set.
Website: brightonzip.com
5. Yellow wave
If the sand-less beach has got you down, and you’re in need of some fun in the sun, Yellow Wave has you covered with 6 volleyball courts, complete with golden sand.
The only criticism Brighton Beach gets is related to its rocky shores, which makes activities that encourage jumping about a fairly major injury risk. Thanks to Yellow Wave, a safe space for everyone’s favourite beach game. It’s great for a family match of volleyball, and some drinks at the well-stocked bar and cafe.
Website: yellowave.co.uk
6. Basketball, Table tennis and Volleyball
If you’re lucky, or on the beachfront on a quieter day, there are volleyball and basketball courts, and a few table tennis tables for anyone to use.
7. Adrenaline Beach Tennis
An underground beach-clad sport gaining popularity, beach tennis if anything a more intense version of tennis. No chance of recovery should it bounce, and quick reactions and flying lunges to keep the ball in play, this is what Ice Hockey is to regular Hockey, a faster higher octane variation sure to capture your attention.
Using a Sand-filled court with a net, bat and ball, it’s easy to pick up and incredibly difficult to master. They provide a bat and ball, and the courts, all they need from yourself and a fiver.
It can be a casual laugh with family and friends, or a serious contest between two skilled players. There’s even an upcoming World tournament taking place here on the 29th and 30th of April.
Situated just off Brighton Beach, the added bonus of the breathtaking Seaside views adds to the experience, as the crashing wake of the ocean waves provides the perfect backdrop for a hotly contested match between friends.
Last of all, there is an abundance of Cafes around the location itself, with Cafe de la Mer and the Famous Pump Room directly adjacent to the courts, meaning you can comfortably take a break for refreshment, or grab something after your game to reinvigorate yourself after an energy taxing match.
Website: adrenalinebeachtennis.co.uk
8. Upside Down House
Step into a topsy-turvy world where the laws of physics have been rewritten. Apples fall up, parachutes are a one-way ticket to space and football pitches are in the sky. The upside-down house offers a glimpse into such a world; the furniture, appliances, and even the family dog seemingly defy gravity.
An interactive short experience sure to make for some interesting photos to show people back home, it’s a great distraction to help break up your day. The perfect activity for families with young children or groups of friends looking for a surreal photo opportunity.
If you want to get the best out of your visit, staff are on hand to answer questions and offer any guidance on how to get the best photos.
Website: upsidedownhouse.co.uk
9. Aquarium
Aquariums were always my favourite part of visiting Seaside cities as a child and the Brighton Aquarium is a worthwhile visit for those interested in a glimpse into marine life. Running since 1872, the Aquarium is the oldest operating Aquarium in the world! It was bought in 1991 by Sea Life, this Victorian building houses over 5,500 species of aquatic life.
The main draw of any good Aquarium is the Ocean tunnel. Is it really an Aquarium if you can’t walk through a tunnel and google at Sharks, Rays, Turtles and Moray eels as they swim around you,(glare menacingly whilst stationary in the case of the moray eel) and stare back?
Brighton’s aquarium does not disappoint, with regular feedings and shows, and even the chance to have a glass boat experience atop the tank rather than below in the tunnel.
Furthermore, they have touch pools, allowing kids to interact with creatures unlike anything on land. There’s really no other chance to experience rays and the variety of other creatures in this way, without becoming a Marine Biologist.
Website: www.visitsealife.com
10. Sarah and Topsy
A cute shop with TARDIS-like dimensions on the inside seeming much bigger than the outside. Sarah and Topsy is a shop nestled just next to the Pier which offers a menagerie of anime-inspired wares.
The shop is the embodiment of Kawaii, with an abundance of Sanrio plushies, accessories and merchandise, all the cutest Pokemon-related trinkets and a host of items that relate to more anime characters than a 15-year-old going through their Japanese phase.
I didn’t think I’d find much for myself when I was first dragged in by my partner, but lo and behold, I walked out with a Mudkip plushie and a t-shirt with a cartoon Axolotl on it.
Website: www.sarahandtopsy.co.uk
11. Hove Lagoon
For the more active readers, a minor detour from Brighton Beach could prove to be an unforgettable experience. Hove Lagoon is an awesome man-made water sports lagoon, offering everything fun you can do atop a body of water.
Featuring a 200m long and 100m wide Boating lake, the Hove lagoon is just inland from the beach and offers a rip-roaring slew of options for an exciting, unforgettable visit to Brighton.
Choose from a range of activities including windsurfing, wakeboarding, sailing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, with no experience necessary, all including tuition and all equipment, including wetsuits provided. For just £10 you can hire a Kayak and even take it out to sea!
Website: www.lagoon.co.uk
12. Flour pot Bakery
Readers who have seen the predecessor to this article will know about my love for the Flour Pot Bakery, with myself singling the bakery out as one of my favourite places to visit in the Lanes. They do gorgeous pastries, delectable sourdough toasties and some rousing artisanal coffee.
They have 10 locations across Brighton, Hove and the surrounding towns, but their beachside may be the best location, with a quaint and charming outdoor seating area making each sip of coffee and each bite of pastry that extra touch better. On a good day, a sit-down meal here can be a delight to all 5 senses!
Website: www.theflourpot.co.uk
13. i360
A futuristic observation tower straight out of a sci-fi flick, this space needle-esc goliath stands at an impressive height of 162 metres. With breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding coastline and the cityscape, you’ll see Brighton in a way you’ve never seen before.
Its unique design makes it hard to miss, essentially a glass capsule that slowly rises up a central column, allowing visitors a spellbinding view of Brighton. Capable of hosting up to 200 people at a time, its state-of-the-art viewing platform is, in my opinion, far superior to the London Eye.
Visitors can see along the seafront, catching a bird’s eye view of the famous Brighton Pier, as well as the South Downs National Park that stretches into the distance.
The remains of the West Pier can be seen from an exclusive i360 perspective, as it takes on a sort of ghostly form, especially on foggy days when the pier appears to be shrouded by a ghostly veil.
On clear days, it’s even possible to see as far as the Isle of Wight, over 50 miles away! With the addition of a glass floor, you’ll be walking on air, looking at the ant-like blips on the ground far below. If you are in need of a more adrenaline-fuelled experience of the soaring i360 views, they offer a chance to climb and even abseil the tower! Perhaps not one for the acrophobia.
Website: brightoni360.co.uk
14. Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf
It’s hard to go wrong with adventure golf. Whether a hardened adult, beaten down by years of life, or a child blessed with the virtue of innocence, adventure golf will bring out the competitive, overly dramatic side in anyone. It’s always fun for a detour from your day on Brighton Beach, and with 2 separate adventure golf courses on the seafront, it’s only a short walk back to beach relaxation.
Jungle Rumble as the name suggests, is jungle-themed, if you can believe that. Battle through waterfalls, caves, and plenty of lush foliage as you compete for the bragging rights that come with being the best mini-golf player in the family.
Featuring two separate 18-hole courses, the Caveman course and the tree-top canopy course. There’s really nothing like nailing that perfect angle as your limited understanding of trigonometry pays off. If you’re looking for that competitive edge, you could always get the protractor out!
Of course, competitive activity isn’t for everyone on their trip to Brighton Beach, maybe you are purely visiting to unwind, or maybe you just hate golf. Luckily, if either applies to you, Jungle Rumble features a gorgeous Roof Terrace bar, allowing you to have a cocktail, sit back and let the eldest kid or other parent take charge, while you stare off into the horizon with a nice beverage and some comforting food.
Website: brighton.junglerumble.co.uk
15. Volks Railway
Ride along Brighton’s Seafront on a 135-year-old electric railway, the oldest electric railway in the world still operating. First made usable to the public in 1883, the route runs for 1 mile along the Brighton Seafront, taking you from the Sea Life Aquarium Station near Brighton Pier to the Black Rock Station near the Marina.
The journey takes around 15 minutes each way, offering a unique perspective of the city’s coastline. The carriages are open-air, and spacious, allowing passengers to enjoy the sea breeze and soak up the sun whilst they travel along the coastline. Let the sights come to you! It was a big deal in 1886, and it’s a big deal now!
The train is also wheelchair accessible, which makes it an activity that is inclusive to anyone with mobility issues, and a helpful way of getting around the seafront. The staff who operate the Volks Electric Railway are friendly, welcoming, and able to provide a wealth of interesting information about the railway’s history and operation.
The staff are more than happy to indulge any questions, with employees possessing a wealth of knowledge related to the train, its tracks and its curious founder Magnus Volk.
Great for those with an interest in Victorian eccentrics, Train buffs or anyone simply looking for a fun way to explore Brighton’s coastline. You won’t find another railway steeped in this much history and individuality in England. It’s well worth a ride.
Website: volksrailway.org.uk
16. West Pier
This iconic pier is one of Brighton’s most beloved landmarks. Built in 1866, the West Pier was once a bustling hub of fun and leisure, attracting visitors from across the land.
As time passed however it became more and more outdated, until it was eventually put into disuse in the 70’s. It would go on to suffer significant damage over the years, burning to its ashen remains that are visible today.
Despite its derelict state, the pier has once again become a popular tourist attraction. Although no longer open to the public, visitors can still enjoy stunning views of the pier on Brighton Beach and up on the promenade.
For those who want to learn more about the history of the West Pier, there are several informative exhibits located nearby; The West Pier Centre offers a fascinating insight into the pier’s history, detailing its construction and eventual decline.
Its biggest draw is its striking imagery, as many a photographer has found themselves enamoured with the juxtaposition of its surroundings and its beauty that is only made more prominent by its decay.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional photographer or simply enjoy taking snaps on your smartphone, the West Pier is the subject of thousands of truly stunning pictures taken by tourists every year.
17. Beach huts
For permanent residents or regular visitors buying a Beach Hut on Brighton Beach may be within your sight, making for a charming and comfortable addition to a beach holiday. A space to keep your things, to escape from the sun, even to relax and in some cases make some food in, they add a whole new dimension to a seaside trip, blending your beach visit with the best parts of camping.
The sea-sides answer to ‘Glamping’. Originally, beach huts were set up in alignment with Victorian morality over a hundred years ago, as a means to prevent public indecency. With privacy, Victorians were able to change in privacy, without fear of exposing themselves to the public. Now viewed as a luxury, they can certainly spruce up your seaside vacation.
18. Beach box sauna
Easy to miss, and at first glance may look nothing like a Spa, the Beach Box Sauna in Brighton is a highly regarded Spa and Sauna that has achieved national acclaim, featuring in The Guardian and receiving first-rate reviews. So consistent in fact, that even on Google they have never had a review that wasn’t a full 5 stars.
Every customer leaves fully satisfied and revitalised with their high-class pampering loosening up even the most stressed of customers. They have frequent events, often celebrating different themes, which allows for relaxation in a more social setting.
A chance to get to know new people in the least taxing environment in existence. The Beach Box Sauna offers 3 different Saunas, each one a unique experience. For those in need of some ‘me time’ The Beach Box Sauna is an unmissable treat.
Website: beachboxspa.co.uk
19. Antfox Gallery
Brighton is among the most creative cities in the UK, so it’s only natural that its beach would have bags of culture and creativity. The Antfox Art Gallery is one of the few art galleries I’ve been to where I genuinely enjoyed myself. It’s something to do with the light and airy feel of the place.
Usually art galleries, despite the passion and creativity present within the artwork, feel soulless and bland, each footstep echoing through the air bouncing off the marble columns and white walls.
Here though, you are greeted with a bright, welcoming ambience, paintings covering the walls, decor that has clear homages to the sea-side proximity of the gallery, with a rich abundance of natural light that feels uplifting.
There was no sense of the crushing fatigue I often feel after 30 minutes in other galleries. Exhibiting a wide range of contemporary art styles, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces, there’s much to appreciate with plenty of talent and creativity on display.
Including a mix of emerging and established contemporary artists, there’s so much talent on display and so much charm imbued in the gallery itself. The exhibitions change regularly, ensuring that new and exciting works of art are displayed to the public.
It’s everchanging and naturally gives a great reason to swing by on every subsequent visit to Brighton. The gallery staff even offer art advisory services for those looking to purchase or commission a piece of art.
The art itself is fresh, engaging, exciting and in some cases thought-provoking. It’s not filled with realism and abstract pretentiousness. The recent addition of adding the ability to scan certain paintings with the Artivie app, bringing the paintings to life makes for a great way to keep kids engaged and interested.
The gallery is located on Brighton Beach, open to the public, and admission is free, making it a great visit for art enthusiasts and the uninitiated alike. Through hosting events and workshops, Antfox even provides opportunities for visitors to engage with the artwork and artists on a far more personal level, gaining insight into the creators’ inspiration and methods.
Website: www.antfox.com
20. The Arch
Opened in 2015, The Arch is the latest of many iterations of this club that goes back to the 80’s. First known as The Zap, it has hosted some of dance music’s biggest names, featuring the likes of The Prodigy, Basement Jaxx and of course Fatboy Slim. Now known as the Arch, it’s one of Brighton’s best-loved clubs and makes for a barnstormer of a night out.
As soon as you step into The Arch, there’s an immediate tingle of electricity in the air. A palpable buzz of excitement mingled with anticipation. The venue’s sleek and modern design sets the stage for a great night filled with banger after banger. It meets all the requirements of a great club: A spacious dance floor, multiple bars, and a raised DJ booth. The lighting and sound systems are top-notch, facilitating an immersive and exhilarating clubbing experience.
A veritable feast of events, The Arch is home to a variety of nights out, all with different themes, with occasional live performances capturing the imagination. Steeped in rich history, they focus on supporting local and up-and-coming talent, providing a platform for emerging artists to showcase their music and gain exposure.
Website: www.thearch.club
21. The Brighton Fishing Museum
Located at the heart of Brighton’s historic fishing quarter on Brighton Beach, The Brighton Fishing Museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Brighton’s fishermen, an integral part of the city’s growth over the years. Showcasing the tools, equipment, and techniques used by fishermen throughout the years, the word ‘comprehensive’ is an understatement.
The highlight of the museum is the 27 ft Fishing boat at the centre of the museum, giving visitors the opportunity to explore a real fishing boat and learn of the conditions faced by fishermen. There are also displays of historic photographs and artefacts, providing a glimpse into the lives of fishermen through the years.
It’s not for everyone, but if you or anyone with you has an interest in Maritime history, Fishing or even marine life, it’s well worth a visit.
Website: www.fishingquarter.co.uk
