All things Brighton beautiful

If you’re thinking of extending your stay in Brighton, beyond Congress, here’s a few hints and tips from staff who live in the city.

Things to see and do

The city is famed for its pier, pebbly beach, Regency squares and its laid-back, bohemian culture. A recent addition to the Brighton skyline is the i-360 offering views across the city and out to sea.

The Royal Pavilion is an architectural wonder and is just a 10-minute walk from the Congress venue. Built as a pleasure palace for King George IV, it has served as a civic building, a hospital in the First World War and is now firmly established as one of Brighton’s top landmarks.

Also, fairly new to the city is the Upside Down House on the beach – book tickets in advance and take some fun photographs.

Brighton has a history of campaigning and if you are at the clock tower, on the corner of Queen St and North St, you’re more than likely to see a group campaigning to end racism, fight for better pay, or to hold the government to account.

The city also hosts the Brighton Festival, Brighton Fringe, and Artists’ Open Houses during May each year, therefore demand for accommodation is high. We recommend you reserve accommodation as soon as possible. The city has a fabulous nightlife, from bars and clubs to cabaret nights. The city is very LGBTQ+ friendly (we’ve been hosting Brighton Pride since 1972) and there are lots of venues and nights out for you to enjoy. The Brighton Fringe puts on many cabaret and comedy nights - with some tickets costing less than £10.

Larger dance, theatre and musical productions can be found at the Theatre Royal, the Brighton Dome and the Corn Exchange. Brighton’s also appeared in many movies over the years, from Brighton Rock, Quadrophenia, Mona Lisa, and the upcoming Harry Styles film, My Policeman.

Where to eat

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, Chilli Pickle and Bincho Yakitori are highly recommended. Vegans and vegetarians are spoilt for choice in Brighton; Food for Friends and the humorously named Wai Kika Moo Kau are firm favourites. If you’re after traditional fish and chips, you can’t go wrong at Bankers, or for a more upmarket fish supper head to Riddle and Finns, with views of the sea. Shelter Hall on the seafront is host to several local restaurants all under one roof. Just grab a table and order your food (via the app) from wherever takes your fancy.

Retail therapy

If you’re planning on doing some shopping while you’re in Brighton, the Churchill Square shopping area has H&M, M&S, Primark, etc. But if you’re wanting to see the real Brighton, head to The Laines. These smaller streets are packed full of independent stores full of the quirky and unusual. Head to the North Laines if you are after tattoo parlours, piercings, vintage clothing and coffee shops, or the South Laines for antiques, homewares, galleries and jewellery. Both have an abundance of al fresco eateries too.

Travel

Brighton rail station is just a 12-minute walk from the Brighton Centre (it’s downhill from the station). If you are driving, please be aware that parking is limited in Brighton, and is not particularly cheap. Local buses accept card payments, just remember to tap on and tap off! Most buses have USB phone chargers at each seat. There is also a bike hire scheme - a great way to enjoy the promenade - and burn off that fish supper.

Just one word of warning. Be careful eating on the seafront - the seagulls are huge and are known for snatching chips and ice creams straight from your hand!