How to Spend One Day in Brighton (From Someone Who Goes Often)

I visit Brighton regularly and am constantly drawn back to this vibrant seaside city.

Not far from the South Downs on the southwest English coast, Brighton is a huge draw for all ages. 

Living just 30 minutes down the coast means I can easily hop on a train or drive down for a day visit.

It’s hard to get bored as there are so many things to do in Brighton, and I never quite feel like I’ve had enough time in one day to explore its hidden gems. 

So, no matter if you’re after a classic British seaside day with a stroll along the pier and fish and chips, or you want to dive into Brighton’s fascinating history at the Royal Pavilion, you’ll always find a way to fill the day!

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Before You Go: Practical Tips for Visiting Brighton

Before you set off, here are a few things I always keep in mind to make the most of a Brighton day trip.

Getting To Brighton

You can get an off-peak return ticket for as little as £20 on Trainline from London Victoria to Brighton, and it only takes about an hour.

Trains run regularly throughout the day and drop you right in the heart of the city.

Where To Park In Brighton

If you’re driving, be prepared — central Brighton parking can be expensive.
The Lanes Car Park or NCP Brighton Centre can cost £35 or more for a full day.

However, Withdean Park & Ride offers parking for £3 for six hours of parking (first 3 hours are free!) and then £4 return bus fare for two adults.

It takes about 20 minutes to get into the city centre but can save you a significant amount, especially during peak times.

What To Pack

The sea breeze is no joke!
Even on a sunny day, Brighton can feel cooler than expected. I always bring layers, comfy shoes, and a thin waterproof jacket, just in case the weather turns.

Is Card Or Cash Better In Brighton?

Most cafés, shops, and restaurants accept contactless cards. For buses and public transport, you can use contactless or download the Brighton & Hove Bus app to buy digital tickets on the go.
That said, I like to carry a bit of cash for independent traders or market stalls.

Best Time to Visit Brighton

Brighton is accessible year-round, with each season offering a different atmosphere.

Spring brings milder weather and blooming gardens, while summer is the busiest period, with events, longer daylight hours, and crowded beaches.

Autumn tends to be quieter, with cooler temperatures and fewer visitors in the city centre. Winter is the coldest season, but the streets around the Pavilion and the seafront are often decorated with lights.

Public transport and attractions run throughout the year, though some smaller venues may reduce their hours outside of peak season.

A Day in Brighton Itinerary

This is the itinerary I know and love, and recommend to those visiting Brighton for the day.

Morning: Coffee and Culture

In the morning, go and grab a coffee and pastry from Bread and Milk café near the North Laines then saunter down to the Royal Pavilion. This is a unique, historic structure built by King George IV and is modelled on the Taj Mahal.

The gardens in the Pavilion are peaceful and inside the palace is breath-taking.

Then pay a visit to Brighton Museum and Art Gallery where there is a range of fine art, fashion displays and exhibitions on the unique, rich history of Brighton.

Afternoon: Lanes and Lunch

Take a wander down the famous North Laines where it is bustling with independent shops and cafes.

This is a colourful and unique neighbourhood in Brighton, with Gardner Street being one of my favourite streets to browse. There are some great vintage stores selling unique pieces of clothing.

The North Laines is a great place to have lunch where there are artisan cafes, Italian bistros or hearty pub lunches to choose from. Moshka is a great place to have lunch, offering a variety of homemade soups, sandwiches, burgers and smoothies.

Stop by the Helm Gallery and enjoy some incredible art work or literature, serving up coffee in the day this dynamic space transforms into a cocktail bar at night.

After this, head over to the South Lanes, where the winding laneways and twittens are lined with many hidden gems, secret squares and high end shops. This is a great place to browse for jewellery.

Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views

There are so many great dinner options in Brighton, it is literally a foodie heaven. I absolutely adored dining at Pearly Cow, which is a top sea view restaurant in Sussex.

In this bougie restaurant with excellent service, choose from a range of open flamed cooked delicacies or some of the freshest oysters on the coast.

The dining space feels opulent, decorated with a tasteful art selection, created by local artists. The crème brulee is to die for.
The Sunday Roast is meant to be impeccable also. For the warmer days, the seafront terrace is a great option to enjoy nibbles and drinks in the sun.

Finish the evening by watching the sunset on one of the terraced beach side bars such as Fortune of War where there is always a great atmosphere. You could even catch a sunset ride on the famous i360 , offering panoramic views across the City, countryside and across the English Channel.

Other Things to Do in Brighton

If you’re planning to spend a bit more time in Brighton or want ideas for your next visit, here are some extra spots to check out:

• Devil’s Dyke: A short drive or bus ride from the city, this wide valley offers countryside views and well-marked walking routes. There’s also a pub nearby if you want to make a day of it.
  
• Brighton Toy and Model Museum: Tucked beneath the train station, this small museum has detailed displays of vintage toys, model trains, and classic memorabilia.
  
• Sea Life Brighton: One of the oldest operating aquariums in the world, featuring a glass-bottom boat, underwater tunnels, and a range of marine life exhibits.
  
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: A relaxed way to explore the city’s key landmarks, including the Marina, Hove, and the Royal Pavilion. It’s especially handy if you want to save your legs on a longer day out.

• Kemptown: Known for its bold personality and LGBTQ+ venues, this neighbourhood has lots of character, along with cafés, record shops, and antiques.
  
• Hove: A quieter part of the city, with a wide promenade, traditional beach huts, and a more residential feel.
  
• Upside Down House: A fun, family-friendly photo stop right on the seafront. Everything inside is flipped, making for some great camera roll moments.

FAQs

What is the nicest part of Brighton?

One of the nicest parts of Brighton in my opinion is the South Lanes, some of which feel so full of character.

Is one day in Brighton enough?

One day in Brighton is not enough. There are many different neighbourhoods to explore that cannot be done in a day. Additionally, I always recommend a day trip to Devils Dyke in Brighton which is a day out in itself.

Is a Brighton day trip from London easy to do?

Yes it is. There is a direct train from London Victoria to Brighton. This takes approximately 1 hour on the fast train.

Where to stay in Brighton for one night?

I’d look around North Laine or Kemptown for somewhere close to the seafront and easy walking distance to most places.

There’s a mix of guesthouses, small hotels, and Airbnbs. Anywhere near the Pavilion or the beach makes a good base.

Conclusion

Brighton is a fun, cultural city packed with things to do. There’s traditional seaside fun, historical sightseeing, quirky tourist spots, and top-tier food to try.

If you’re here for the day or making it a weekend trip, you’ll find something to enjoy.

I’ll always be a Brighton fan, and I think you will be too.