Brighton – The Party Never Stops -

Definitely one of the warmest parts of the UK, Brighton is located comfortable on the Southern coast of the country and is blessed with more sunshine than is rewarded to the rest of UK. With high humidity and coastal winds, Brighton has easy weather for all except 3 months of the year – the peak winter months – Dec, Jan and Feb. And then too it is not entirely impossible to take a walk on the sea front or enjoy a cuppa out on your balcony. 

(Art and Sculptures adorn the Brighton Beach) 

(Hopping Inside To Take a look into the Random Free Museum) 

(Sculptors display their work along the beach)

The Seafront

Different from other beaches in that it has pebbled shores contrary to most white sandy beached coastal towns, Brighton has a large and beautiful coastline accompanied by a walking path as well as a bicycling track. A walk straight down from the Brighton and Hove station will bring you to the beach which is covered with tiny white, cream, red and brown pebbles. In the summer there are dozens of shacks, ice cream vendors and pubs open all day across the length of the beach. Surprisingly even nearing the end of September, a lot of these are open for business.

(Gazing at the mini Tsunami)

The wind ruffled our hair, gustled in our ears and at times almost made us feel like we would be swooped up with it Wizard of Oz style. Closer to the winter, be sure to wear ear muffs as you stand and gaze at the threatening yet gripping view of the waves.

The Brighton Pier

(Walking along the Famous Brighton Pier) 

(Soak up the sun while lying in Deck Chairs)

A leisurely walk down the beach will bring you to the Pier – vibrant, colorful and fun, this spot allows for hours of entertainment and relaxing. With trinket shops, bars, restaurants, funny photo spots, thrilling rides and tons of deck chairs to bask in the sun.

(Makes you want to become a child again)

(Fun and games at the Brighton Pier)

The pier makes you enjoy a summery afternoon even in the winter! At the centre of the pier lies a casino with fun and games for all ages. 

The Royal Pavillion

(The Royal Pavilion)

(A glimpse of the Chinese influence)

(Beautiful fountains are scattered all across the town)

The Royal Pavillion was built as a residence for the Royal Family for when they visit Brighton. However, Queen Victoria was not very approving of this building as her residence and it was sold to Brighton city in the 1800s and was eventually turned into a museum. Bang in the heart of the city, it is hard to miss this fine amalgamation of Chinese, Indian and Islamic architecture. When inside the gates of this building, spend time examining and appreciating the curves and folds of the building and strolling through the lush green lawns. The property is open to buskers, some of whom are extremely good performers and end up having a sizeable audience sitting in the lawns watching and listening to them.

The Lanes

(Walking around the La(i)nes)

Spelt slightly differently as ‘Laines’, this is area can probably be called the energy centre of Brighton. Divided into the North Laines and South Laines, Brighton wouldn’t be the same without these.

(The Central shopping area)

North Laines – Think shopping – fun, crazy, exciting shopping – from clothes and shoes, to quirky gift items and bags to tattoos, designer jewellery and fancy dress shops, the North Laines are a great haunt for the wandering window shopper as well as the serious buyer! And the Laines spread out in four directions from a little square with a fountain in the centre – you feel like you’ve been transported into a fairytale world inhabited by hobbits.

(For Heavenly Hot Chocolate)

South Laines – Think food and drinks – lip smacking, finger licking, delectable food! From streetside bars, to organic food restaurants to quaint little coffee shops, the South Laines have it all. Step in to Casa Don Carlos for authentic Spanish fare complete with Sangria and Tapas.

Do not miss the ‘Naked’ coffee shop. With corporate looking sofa seating on the ground floor and large throw pillow floor seating on the first, the tea and coffee shop provides a space for meetings as well as lounging. The hot chocolate topped with cream and marshmallows is to die for, as are the gluten free breads and homemade cakes. Way to go organic food! 

(Brighton and Hove Food Festival)

The other thing I got lucky with this trip was Food. I happened to be there during the Brighton and Hove Food Festival and it was a complete delight. With food stalls around the market area as well as in the main square, the streets were abuzz with people. From cupcakes and organic muffins to salt water taffy and pies, the smells wafting our way were divine.

When in Brighton, if you’re a real party animal, you’ll drink more than you’ll eat. Head to ‘Yates’ for great music and ‘The Victory Inn’ for a range of brews. This is the oldest pub in Brighton – started in 1766.

For Britain’s famous fish and chips, have lunch at Harry Ramsdens which is known to have the best fish and chips. The restaurant is located on the seafront in Brighton.