Day 1 - Pier, Pavilion & Seaside
Brighton Pier
Walk the 1,722-foot Victorian pier built in 1899. Play arcade games, watch the mechanical entertainment at Penny Lane, enjoy fish and chips, and ride the roller coaster if weather permits. The pier offers unobstructed views of the seafront and serves as the main entry point to understanding Brighton's traditional seaside culture.
Brighton Royal Pavilion
Tour the 1787 Indo-Gothic palace built as the Prince Regent's seaside retreat. The exterior features onion domes and minarets copied from Indian architecture; interiors include the Banqueting Room with hand-painted wallpaper and the Music Room with ornate decoration. Audio guides available in seven languages.
The Lanes shopping district
Narrow, pedestrian-only alleyways between North Street and East Street contain independent vintage shops, record stores, jewelers, and cafes. Browse Rokit for vintage clothing, Wai Kee Books for rare publications, or walk the streets observing local independent businesses. This area represents Brighton's creative retail culture distinct from chain stores.
Brighton Beach and seafront promenade
Walk the pebble beach and esplanade past colourful beach huts (Hove Beach Huts, approximately 1.5 miles west, offer distinctive painted structures). The seafront has cafes, seating areas, and views across the English Channel. Sunset viewing is particularly good during summer months.
The Graze Inn (fish and chips, £12-16) or Cafe Coho (vegetarian, £10-14)
Riddle & Finns (seafood, £18-28) or Cafe Alie (Mediterranean, £12-18)