If you’re in London and feel a need for ocean breezes and a lot of funk, head to Brighton. This laidback seaside town is one of England’s most hip, fashionable, and unconventional destinations. You’ll discover plentiful vegan and ethnic restaurants, health food stores, yoga studios, Regency architecture, artists, LGBT visitors, clothing boutiques, and nightlife. Think: London meets Miami's South Beach meets Coney Island meets Greenwich Village. The 52-mile trip takes about 50 minutes if you ride a fast train leaving from Victoria or London Bridge Stations. (Once you’re in Brighton, getting around is easy by foot or city bus.)
Brighton's weather
Culturally, Brighton may be a first cousin to Miami's South Beach, but weather-wise, it sure isn't! Brighton has pleasant but very moderate summer temperatures, June through August, with daytime highs generally reaching only the low 70s. And, of course, this is England, so rain should never be a surprise. As usual, wear layers.
Brighton attractions
A stroll beside the ocean, on the Victorian Pier, is a must. Grab lunch or a drink in one of the outdoor cafes or bars, where you can watch the sea and be entertained by buskers. After lunch, meander through the seaside amusement park, surf shops, and artist studios. When you’re done with the sea and head back into the city center, be sure to visit the Brighton Lanes shopping district, a warren of twisting back streets and alleyways filled with charming old shops that offer both upscale designs and retro, vintage kitsch. Another “must see” is the Royal Pavilion—an exotic palace built by King George IV featuring eclectic Indian-Gothic and Chinese influences. And finally, if all that fresh air and walking hasn’t over-tired you, put on your dancing shoes in the evening and head to one of Brighton’s many nightclubs, internationally known for their live music. From jazz to techno to indie to funk to salsa to house to 60s, 70s, 80s, or 90s—it’s your choice!
(Note: Brighton’s official name nowadays is actually “Brighton and Hove,” though most people just say “Brighton.” In 1997, these two adjoining towns were yoked for governmental administrative purposes.)
Watch "Brighton" video
Brighton's weather
Culturally, Brighton may be a first cousin to Miami's South Beach, but weather-wise, it sure isn't! Brighton has pleasant but very moderate summer temperatures, June through August, with daytime highs generally reaching only the low 70s. And, of course, this is England, so rain should never be a surprise. As usual, wear layers.
Brighton attractions
A stroll beside the ocean, on the Victorian Pier, is a must. Grab lunch or a drink in one of the outdoor cafes or bars, where you can watch the sea and be entertained by buskers. After lunch, meander through the seaside amusement park, surf shops, and artist studios. When you’re done with the sea and head back into the city center, be sure to visit the Brighton Lanes shopping district, a warren of twisting back streets and alleyways filled with charming old shops that offer both upscale designs and retro, vintage kitsch. Another “must see” is the Royal Pavilion—an exotic palace built by King George IV featuring eclectic Indian-Gothic and Chinese influences. And finally, if all that fresh air and walking hasn’t over-tired you, put on your dancing shoes in the evening and head to one of Brighton’s many nightclubs, internationally known for their live music. From jazz to techno to indie to funk to salsa to house to 60s, 70s, 80s, or 90s—it’s your choice!
(Note: Brighton’s official name nowadays is actually “Brighton and Hove,” though most people just say “Brighton.” In 1997, these two adjoining towns were yoked for governmental administrative purposes.)
Watch "Brighton" video
Watch video of seaside yoga in Brighton
BRIGHTON PHOTO GALLERY
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