Brighton

There’s always a lively atmosphere in Brighton, East Sussex; whether browsing around the Brighton Lanes, visiting the Edwardian Preston Manor or being stunned by the outrageous Brighton Royal Pavilion.

There’s a quirkiness here.  Brighton Royal Pavilion looks like it should be in India rather than in Brighton.  Built as a palace by the Prince Regent, later King George IV, the Brighton Royal Pavilion reflects his personality.

Preston Manor is said to be the most haunted house in Brighton.  There are ghost tours so you may see some spooks as you explore the upstairs and downstairs world of Preston Manor.  Elsewhere you can find skeletons in the Booth Museum of Natural History mostly dinosaurs and whales, there are birds and butterflies as well.

Night life in Brighton is busy and never boring.  It’s great for clubs, usually packed.  It’s arty, it’s cultured, it’s bohemian, there are cafes, restaurants, festivals, theatre and fun.  The only thing you might not find in Brighton is an early night.

The Brighton Lanes - and North Laine - are the places to shop for something different in Brighton, a winding maze of second hand shops, antiques and boutiques.  In Brighton’s historic quarter, the Lanes feel laid back even when busy.

The Brighton Lanes are close to Brighton Beach, which in summer is like a magnet for visitors, with ice cream during the day and BBQs after dark.  Take a stroll along Brighton Pier, scream around the rides then calm down on the Volks Railway that chugs along the front.

The Brighton Sea Life Centre is also along the Front, set in a grand Victorian building, it’s the oldest aquarium in the world.