How to Enjoy Brighton, England

Brighton and Hove, two towns combined to make one city in 2000, is located in the county of East Sussex in England. This new city exudes a bohemian spirit, an exuberant gay community, a large student population and a dynamic mix of ageing and new-age hippies.

Naturally enough this English seaside town also boasts its traditional candy-floss fun.

But it has to be said that the beach is not really the town's main attraction as it is a beach of pebbles. My own children where not impressed as they couldn't make sand-castles and the pebbles were not particularly comfy to walk on.

Having said that Brighton rocks all year round but especially in the summer months when language students, tourists and revelers from London pour in to have a good time.

If you arrive by train then you will only be a half mile north of the beach whilst the bus station is just tucked away very near to 'Brighton Pier'.

The major thoroughfare that links the pier and the center of town is the Old Steine (pronounced steen).

For those that are interested in the gay scene at Brighton then you will find it flourishing in Kemptown which of course is known as Camptown.

Sights

The Royal Pavillion - This is an absolute must when visiting Brighton. The Royal Pavilion is an exotic palace that was the party place for Prince George who later became King George IV. Outside you see the flamboyant Indian style domes but enter the palace and you are faced with a lavish oriental styled interior. Here dragons swoop from gilt smothered ceilings and gem covered snakes slither down the pillars.

Opening times - Oct-Mar, 10am-4.30 and April-Sept, 9.30-5pm

The Lanes - The lanes is comprised of a cobblestone web of 17th century cottages that house independent shops, one of a kind eateries and pubs.

The North Laine is home to multi-colored shops selling second hand records and vegetarian cafes.

Brighton pier - This pier, formerly known as the palace Pier, is the reminder that Brighton is a seaside resort with everything that is loved about the English seaside. There are noisy amusement arcades, thrill rides, an old fashioned helter skelter and greasy food stands.

Accommodation

Lining the streets of Brighton are many traditional B&Bs, boutique properties and a great selection of back packer joints. Many of these cater for stag and hen nights which means that you will not be guaranteed peaceful nights.

Baggies Backpackers (33 Oriental Place) - This hostel has clean dorms with a motherly owner and has become something of an institution.

St Christopher's (10/12 Grand junction Road) - This basic hostel is along the sea-front and because of its heart of the action location is popular amongst party people.

Brighton house Hotel (52 Regency Square) - At this traditionally welcoming B&B you will get honest value and WIFI.

Clubbing and Drinking

The nightlife in Brighton is awesome and ranges from pubs to venues with live music. There is a tacky side of the nightlife here, which can be found on West Street.

Evening Star (55 Surrey Street) - This pub is unpretentious and is great for the beer lover as it sells a wonderful selection of award winning ales.

Brighton Rocks (6 Rock Place) - Although this is a gay pub and is firmly on the Kemptown scene all are welcome.

Brighton Coalition (171-181 Kings Road Arches) - This is a fantastic beach bar, diner and club. Take your time to sit and watch the world go by.

Concorde 2 (Madeira Drive, Kemptown) - this is probably the best known and best loved club in Brighton. And, for those who like to bump into famous people then you need to know that Fatboy Slim still occasionally graces the decks here.

Of course I have just highlighted a handful of watering holes. For more ideas take a look at www.drinkinbrighton.co.uk

Eating

Brighton has much more to offer than just the usual seaside fish and chips. I would strongly suggest that you go and explore the Lanes when searching for food. I have listed just a few favorites.

Piccolo's (56 Ship Street) - A bustling but friendly restaurant that serves a cheap tasty pizza

The Tea Cosy (3 George Street) - This tea-room has strict etiquette rules and is full of royal family memorabilia.

The Red Roaster (1D St James' Street) - You will smell the wonderful coffee long before you reach the door.

Infinity Foods Café (11a Kensington gardens) - this café offers plenty of vegetarian, vegan and organic foods on its menu.

Food for Friends (17a Prince Albert Street) - this interesting glass sided restaurant offers an ever inventive choice of vegan and vegetarian food.

Brighton is easy to access with national Express coaches running hourly to and from London Victoria and regularly to all London airports. Plus there are trains running to and from London Victoria and King's Cross Stations.