Things to do in Brighton

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Three beach chairs on a pebbled shore by the sea.
A coastal landscape with cliffs, a beach, and a village.
A historic street with a prominent clock tower, a red double-decker bus, and various pedestrians.
A grassy field with a fence in the foreground and a calm ocean in the background.
A stone structure with moss and lichen, a clear blue sky, and distant greenery.

Brighton Attractions

Eager to know the best experiences and activities in Brighton? Rich history, incredible food and a diverse range of exciting attractions are just the start. Get your bags packed and dive into this bustling city.

Explore the best sights in Brighton with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of { fun activities in Brighton fun activities in Brighton}. We have no booking fees and free cancellation, so you can relax and focus on planning the ultimate vacation.

Things to do

From Brighton: Oxford, Windsor and Eton Full Day Trip

From Brighton: Oxford, Windsor and Eton Full Day Trip

$91
per adult
From Brighton: Oxford, Windsor and Eton Full Day Trip
Brighton: The Prince's Panic Murder Mystery Experience

Brighton: The Prince's Panic Murder Mystery Experience

$32
per adult
Brighton: The Prince's Panic Murder Mystery Experience
From Brighton: Isle of Wight Full-Day Trip via Portsmouth

From Brighton: Isle of Wight Full-Day Trip via Portsmouth

$106
per adult
From Brighton: Isle of Wight Full-Day Trip via Portsmouth
The Seven Sisters from Seaford Head

Seven Sisters and South Downs Tour from Brighton

$113
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
Seven Sisters and South Downs Tour from Brighton
Brighton: Alcotraz Immersive Prison Cocktail Experience

Brighton: Alcotraz Immersive Prison Cocktail Experience

$78
per adult
Brighton: Alcotraz Immersive Prison Cocktail Experience
Brighton View 360 Entry Ticket with Exhibition Access

Brighton i360: View 360 Ticket

$27
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Brighton i360: View 360 Ticket
Seven Sisters & South Downs Tour with Train Tickets Included

Seven Sisters & South Downs Tour with Train Tickets Included

$152
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Seven Sisters & South Downs Tour with Train Tickets Included
Brighton Self-Guided Walk: Regency Glamour to Mod Revolution

Brighton Self-Guided Walk: Regency Glamour to Mod Revolution

$12
per adult
Brighton Self-Guided Walk: Regency Glamour to Mod Revolution
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Brighton must see attractions

1. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular seaside escape that buzzes with activity during the summer. Go for a stroll along the promenade, ride fairground attractions on a Victorian pier and revel in the lively atmosphere of the beach’s busy cafés, restaurants and clubs.
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A gazebo with ornate green and white railings, a domed roof, and a sign reading "BAYVIEW".

2. Brighton Centre

The Brighton Centre is a multipurpose arena that hosts a variety of events such as conferences, music and sports. It has an audience capacity of 4,500 and an exhibition space of 53,820 square feet (5,000 square meters). Set on the seafront, Brighton Centre has been an integral part of the city’s cultural scene since opening in 1977. It has a Brutalist architectural design that was unique in England at the time of its inauguration.
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The Brighton Centre, a historic building with a red and white facade, arched windows, and a green awning.

3. Brighton Pier

Brighton Pier is the heart of the town’s seaside entertainment scene. Spend an afternoon eating cotton candy and riding thrilling roller coasters and come back in the evening for a stroll.
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The Brighton Pier entrance with two flags and illuminated signage.

4. Brighton Marina

Brighton Marina consists of a harbor full of boats and a maze of houses overlooking the English Channel. The 127-acre (51-hectare) labyrinth is charming in its simplicity and is home to gated communities with townhouses and apartments. Spend the afternoon browsing its various leisure centers, shops and restaurants with waterfront views.
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A harbor with boats docked, a wooden building with flags, and a signboard.

5. Preston Park

The city’s largest green area, Preston Park, has a lake, children’s playground and vast forest. The site consists of 63 acres (26 hectares) of pleasant parkland. Visit for its regular outdoor events, such as music performances, circuses and family activities. Enjoy a picnic on a lovely green patch in the shade of a tree while you watch the kids at play.
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A historic stone tower, a well-maintained garden with roses, and a brick wall.

6. University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is an educational institute nestled in the shadow of the beautiful South Downs National Park. Walk alongside students and between an interesting collection of architectural landmarks. Be part of student-organized events and follow a trail around the campus’ surrounding countryside. Established in 1961, the University of Sussex counts Nobel Prize laureates among its staff and notable politicians among its alumni.
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A modern building with cylindrical structures and a grassy lawn in front.

7. University of Brighton

Founded in the 1850s, the University of Brighton is recognized as being one the most inclusive educational institutes in the United Kingdom today. Mingle with alumni, students and professors at campuses, gardens, galleries and theaters. Notable former students of the University of Brighton include Turner Prize winning artists, cartoonist Raymond Briggs and musician Fatboy Slim.
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A staircase leading to the University of Brighton's entrance.

8. Brighton Royal Pavilion

Tour the former pleasure palace of a British king, the Royal Pavillion at Brighton. It started life as a seaside villa before being converted into a palatial complex with domes, towers and minarets inspired by Chinese and Indian art and architecture. Wander through opulent rooms where King George IV used to party and lead a decadent lifestyle with his mistress and courtiers.
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A large, ornate building with multiple domes and minarets.

9. Churchill Square Shopping Centre

Home to over 80 businesses, Churchill Square Shopping Centre is a one-stop destination for retail and dining situated in one of Brighton’s busiest commercial zones. From upscale fashion brands to bargain hunting at discount stores, there’s a shopping experience to suit all tastes. Consult the event’s page of Churchill Square Shopping Center for competitions and events geared toward children.
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A shopping area with Topshop Topman and Calzedonia stores.

Recommended things to do in Brighton

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Brighton

Free Things to Do in Brighton

Escaping to Brighton on a budget? The following can be seen for nada.

Old Police Cells Museum - Check if there are any special exhibitions or guided tours on at this popular museum.

The Doughnut - This is a fantastic place to get your culture hit and discover the vibrant local arts scene.

University of Sussex - Appreciate the design and creativity of this impressive example of modernistic architecture.

Brighton Extramural Cemetery - Wander around this historic site and learn a couple of secrets from long ago.

Regency Square - See for yourself why both locals and tourists are drawn to the vibe of this place.

Brighton Pier - Arrange a visit and find out the significance of this place to the community.

Chapel Royal - Connect with your spiritual side or just take in the peaceful ambiance at this site of worship.

Brighton Beach - Play catch with the little ones or kick back and get some sun at this gorgeous coastal spot.

South Downs Way - Slip away from the big city and lose yourself in Mother Nature at this glorious spot.

Victoria Gardens - If you enjoy spending time in the garden, this attraction will satisfy your green thumb.

Things to Do in Brighton with Kids

There's fun for the entire family no matter where you go in Brighton. Here are a few family friendly experiences to do together that are certain to make your vacation unforgettable:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Brighton? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Brighton attractions

A gazebo with ornate green and white railings, a domed roof, and a sign reading "BAYVIEW".

Brighton Beach

8.8/10 (2,912 reviews)
Brighton Beach captivates with its historic pebble shoreline and vibrant seaside atmosphere. Stroll the lively promenade, enjoy classic fish and chips, or experience nostalgic fairground rides on the Palace Pier.
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Where to stay in Brighton

Find the best Brighton areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Brighton
Learn more about Brighton
A building with a sign reading "The Cricketers" and a flower-covered balcony.

The Lanes

You'll enjoy the beaches and restaurants in The Lanes. You might want to make time for a stop at Chapel Royal or Friends Meeting House.

A beach with a large Ferris wheel, people sunbathing, and buildings in the background.

Kemptown

Kemptown is known for its breathtaking beach views, and you can see some sights in the area like Brighton Beach and SEA LIFE Brighton.

A coastal cityscape with a sandy beach, a tall tower, and a mix of modern and historic buildings.

Brighton City Centre

The stunning beaches and fantastic nightlife are just a few highlights of Brighton City Centre. Make a stop by Brighton Beach or North Laine while you're exploring the area.

An aerial view of a coastal city with a prominent pier extending into the sea.

Seafront

Brighton Beach and Brighton Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Seafront. Travelers also love the stunning beaches, fantastic nightlife, and popular shops.

A grand palace with multiple domes and towers, a central pavilion, and a well-maintained lawn.

Seven Dials

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Seven Dials. You might want to make time for a stop at North Laine or Brighton Clock Tower.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Brighton

A statue of an angel with wings, a building labeled 'Mercure Hotel', and a clear sky with clouds.

Hove

A pebbled beach with a person holding a child, a cliff in the background, and a clear sky.

Lewes

A bridge over water with boats, a tower, and buildings in the background.

Shoreham-by-Sea

A rocky shoreline with a sunset over a calm body of water.

Rottingdean

A rural landscape with rolling hills, scattered houses, and a clear sky.
Photo by Simon Carey (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0)

Woodingdean

A windmill with a white body and a large cross-shaped sail, set against a twilight sky with pink and blue hues.

Hassocks

A busy street with shops, a sign for 'The Black Horse' pub, and pedestrians.

The Cultural Quarter

A rural landscape with rolling hills, a small village, and a distant power line tower.

Henfield

Frequently asked questions

Is Brighton worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Brighton is explore British Airways i360. Check this leading sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's coastal beaches and nature.
How do I spend a day in Brighton?
British Airways i360 and Brighton's Naturist Beach are two excellent places to start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the shopping and dining options in Brighton while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Brighton?
The top tourist attraction in Brighton is British Airways i360, so be sure to add it to your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Brighton?
Three days in Brighton is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many travelers spend two days on average. British Airways i360, Brighton's Naturist Beach and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a bit longer to explore nearby hotspots like Gatwick.
Is Brighton a walkable city?
That comes down to what you'd like to see and do in Brighton. Several sights, such as British Airways i360 and Brighton's Naturist Beach, are reachable on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Brighton's neighborhoods, Brighton City Centre is 0.5 miles away from downtown, while Seafront is 0.2 miles away from the center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Brighton with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary takes your trip to the next level. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Brighton with kids.
What to do in Brighton for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Brighton for adults including North Laine and West Street.
Are there free things to do in Brighton?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Brighton. If you're looking for inspiration, get some tips from a local tour guide. Brighton's Naturist Beach is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their sightseeing adventures.

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