Just an hour and 45 minutes drive from London, Brighton, on the south-coast of England, is a popular seaside destination and perfect for those wanting to get out of London for the weekend or even for a spontaneous day trip! Brighton is one of the most popular road trips for Londonders to take, to get a break from the Big Smoke… but just because it might be a little more well-known of a spot to travel to, doesn’t mean there aren’t some hidden gems to explore once there! So book your Hiyacar and read on for inspiration on what to do on your trip from London to Brighton!
Wander down Brighton’s Palace Pier
One of the city’s most famous monuments and destinations, (and for good reason), a visit to the Palace Pier is a must! This gorgeous Grade II listed iconic landmark is home to a host of bars, eateries and amusements, so head here for views of Brighton from the sea, and to get your fill of candyfloss and carousels. This monument of the late 19th century plays host to regular events - it’s definitely worth checking ahead of time to see if there’s anything exciting on during your visit!
Check out the best of Brighton’s beaches
Known as ‘London-by-the-Sea’, you’re going to want to pack your swimsuit! This gorgeous part of England’s south-east coastline offers lovely pebble beaches and great views. Head down to Brighton’s main beach, and take in the sights of Brighton’s famous Palace pier as you paddle, or, if you want to get away from the crowds, take just a 12 minutes drive east along the coast to Rottingdean Beach.
Explore Brighton’s Royal Pavilion
This magnificent Grade I listed 18th century palace is one of the many architectural marvels Brighton has to offer. Head inside the Royal Pavilion to be transported back to the Regency Era, with bedrooms and reception rooms still in their original 18th century style. On sunnier days, a wander around the highly-manicured Regency-style gardens should be top of your to-do list. Fan of history, art and (or) photography? The Royal Pavilion’s gardens is also home to the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery!
Take in the views from British Airways i360 Viewing Tower
Got a head for heights? Take a smooth ride up to 138 metres in a glass viewing pod for 360 views of this stretch of coastline, and of Brighton, from the British Airways i360 Viewing Tower. Once up there, enjoy a refreshment at their Nyetimber Sky Bar, the perfect activity for a sunny afternoon in Brighton.
Find new and preloved treasures
Head to the Lanes, a quaint area of winding shopping streets, to find a perfect outfit, record to listen to, book to read and more. Located next to the Royal Pavilion, what better place to visit after a leisurely stroll around the Pavilion’s gardens, than a great selection of shops. Not had your fill of shops? Or just a fan of vintage over new? Head to North Laines to the famous Snooper’s Attic vintage store, to stumble upon some preloved treasures - the nearby Jump the Gun vintage menswear shop, is also a great place to check out when in the North Laines shopping district.
See the White Cliffs at nearby Seven Sisters
Head just a 50 minute drive east along the coast to the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs, situated in the beautiful Seven Sisters Country Park. This spot is a great place to immerse yourself in nature; perfect for coastal walks and wildlife spotting, and of course, marvelling at the gorgeous chalk sea cliffs.
Music or theatre fan? Brighton has it all!
Whether you’re a fan of opera, theatre, mainstream contemporary or indie music, Brighton has a venue and a gig for you. For opera, ballet and theatre lovers, head to the stunning Grade II listed 18th century venue of arts and culture, Brighton’s Theatre Royal. For comedy, classical and contemporary music lovers, check out Brighton’s Dome. How about a visit to Komedia, to find a new favourite stand-up comedian or independent band? For lovers of Drag, cabaret and comedy, Ironworks Studios is the place to go!
Looking for more day trip inspiration from London? How about a trip to Canterbury?
Ready to get out of the Big Smoke for the day, or a weekend? Book your perfect Hiyacar now.
