West Pier

The skeletal remains of Brighton's second pier create a haunting landmark visible from miles along the coast. Built in 1866 and destroyed by storms and fire in the 2000s, the Grade I listed ruins now serve as a roost for cormorants and a symbol of Victorian engineering. It ranks among Brighton's most visited sights, and for good reason - most itineraries include it on day one.

Priority: High - do not skip Time needed: 15-30 minutes viewing Best for: photograph one of england's most romantic ruins Skip if: You prefer intact historical buildings or have limited time for viewing ruins Cost: Free

The visit is straightforward. 15-30 minutes viewing gives you enough time to see everything at a comfortable pace.

Accessibility: Viewing from beach requires walking on pebbles, better views from seafront promenade

Photograph one of England's most romantic ruins and contemplate Victorian seaside heritage. That puts it near the top of any Brighton visit, and it deserves the spot. Combine it with British Airways i360 and Brighton Beach - they are close enough to walk between and together make the strongest half-day in Brighton. Afternoon tends to work best here. Free entry makes the decision easy - walk in, see if it holds your attention, and leave when you have had enough.

Skip if: You prefer intact historical buildings or have limited time for viewing ruins

• Best viewed from the beach or i360 observation deck.
• The pier is structurally unsafe and completely closed to public access.
• Particularly distinctive during winter storms.

Insider tip: The best photographs are taken from the pebble beach at low tide when you can get closest to the structure

Dramatic subject for silhouette and storm photography, particularly effective in black and white