Things to do in The Cultural Quarter

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.

Visit South Downs National Park, a vast green haven made up of rolling hills and picturesque woodland. Dotted throughout this extensive serene area are market hamlets with traditional pubs and inns. Get a sense of the local culture across these quaint villages.

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.

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.

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.

Visit the Brighton Theatre Royal, one of the principal culture and dramatic performance hubs in the city. Dating back to the early 19th century, the theater has a prominent redbrick façade that serves as a fine example of Regency architecture. Select from a diverse array of shows here, ranging from upscale opera and plays to family-pleasing entertainment shows.

Chapel Royal is an 18th-century church with an iconic red tower rising from the corner of a street in central Brighton. Its Regency architecture provides a clue as to its beginnings, when it was closely linked to King George IV. Chat with the clergy about today’s inclusive atmosphere in the chapel, which welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.