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Brighton Landmarks, Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions

Often referred to as London-on-sea, Brighton is situated on the south coast of England and stands out as one of the most popular tourist spots in the UK. From strolling along the infamous beach and pier to partaking in the buzzing nightlife and discovering rich culture and history in a museum. There’s an endless supply of things to do and see in Brighton.

A popular spot for a day by the sea since the invention of the railroad bringing Londoners to Brighton, the city is now renowned for its colourful streets, carefree locals and beautiful scenery. It’s even recognised as the unofficial ‘gay capital’, drawing in thousands of visitors every year for Brighton Pride.

However, instead of visiting this vibrant city in the summer, why not consider a Winter escape instead. While Brighton is a seaside town, the sights and attractions in Brighton can be appreciated any time of year. Not only is the city’s vibrancy felt all year round, but the quieter crowds mean you’ll be able to take in the beautiful surroundings of the city and enjoy unique experiences that can’t be enjoyed during peak season.

Plus, you’ll be supporting a seaside town during the offseason while still having a jam-packed day of visiting a variety of attractions and doing some sightseeing. Many say winter is the best time to visit the city – the day-trippers of summer are long gone, leaving you to peruse along the beach and pier at your own pace while admiring the starlings.

You’ll also find that some of the best hotels in Brighton tend to be cheaper and have more availability at this time of year.

1. Be mesmerised by the Starling murmuration in Brighton

Sian Victoria © - Starling Murmuration at Brighton Palace Pier

By far one of if not the most incredible things you can see in Brighton during winter is the Starling murmuration. Referring to when groups of up to 40,000 starling birds flock together and move across the sky seeking warmth, you can catch this mesmerising sight upon Brighton’s Pier just before sunset. Watch as the huge masses of small black birds swoop above your head and snap a picture of the moment. If you’re fast enough.

The best time to see this happen is towards the autumn and winter months – particularly December to January as the birds fly over from Europe. So, make sure to plan your seaside getaway itinerary to include taking in this sensational moment in nature.

When we visited, we had no idea that this would be taking place. We just happened to be in the pier arcade donating money to the 2p machines at the time. When we stepped outside and came across beautiful birds dancing in the sky at sunset. It was a wonderful sight to experience and the highlight of our visit to Brighton.

2. Get your skating shoes on at the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink

Sian Victoria © - Royal Pavilion, Brighton

Sian Victoria © - Royal Pavilion Ice Rink, Brighton

The most iconic landmark in the seaside town of Brighton has got to be the Royal Pavilion Building in the heart of the city. The Indo-Saracenic architectural style makes this grand building impossible to miss. Built in the 19th century as a place for some seaside relaxation for King George IV, the building is evocative of the king’s ‘regency dream’, complete with eclectic, colourful interiors and opulent furnishings that are a lovely sight to see.

The brilliance of the Royal Pavilion building doesn’t end there, as you can have a go on the outdoor ice rink. Opening from the end of October and closing mid-way through January, a winter visit to the city can be made even better by putting on your skates and gliding around the twinkling ice rink under the lights of the grand Royal Pavilion.

Make sure to try it out – especially if you’re holidaying with family – and then pay the admission to see the beauty of the building for yourself inside or stroll the landscaped grounds for free.

Priced at £16 per adult and £10 per child. ‘Standard admission tickets include free return visits for a year from the date of issue’. There’s also group family discounts or a ‘Multi Attraction Annual Pass’ where you can visit the ‘Royal Pavilion, Brighton Museum and Preston Manor’ at a bundle price.

3. Have fun at the Brighton Palace Pier

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Palace Pier Starling Murmuration

A trip to Brighton wouldn’t be complete without having a stroll along Brighton Pier. Opening in 1899, the Palace Pier was the third pier to be constructed in the city and immediately became one of the most popular hotspots across Brighton – much like it is now.

It’s sadly the only pier still standing operational today as the others were destroyed through extreme weather and is home to a whole assortment of entertainment.

From firework displays to various exhibitions, there’s always something going on at the pier. And, even in winter, the amusements don’t stop. Walk along the pier and let your inner child lose by trying out the variety of rides, arcade games and attractions before stopping for some delicious chips at the seaside or a crepe while overlooking the water.

4. Check out the view of Brighton from the British Airways i360

Sian Victoria © - Brighton British Airways I360, Sunset Starling Murmuration

Although you can enjoy wonderful views across the water from the Brighton Pier, the best way to truly take in the Brighton skyline is by visiting the British Airways i360 observation tower.

Found on the seafront, prices are from £16.50 for adults, £11.10 for younger adults and £8.35 for children to experience a flight in the pod. The observation tower looms above Brighton’s streets at a height of 4.7 metres and allows you to enjoy panoramic views of the city, from the pier to the English Channel, while also treating yourself to a drink at the Nyetimber Sky Bar.

Plus, the indoor pod means you can enjoy these views rain or shine and is a unique experience to be had.

5. Admire Regency Architecture

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Regency Townhouses

As you stroll along the streets of the city, why not take a minute to spot some beautiful Regency architecture? The expansion of Brighton in the Regency period meant many buildings were built in that style – a white plaster ‘stucco’ façade, long thin windowpanes, Greek columns, and balconies.

The architectural style is beautiful and can be found across the city. Some notable streets that showcase examples of the Regency era are Norfolk Square, Montpelier Crescent and Western Terrace and should be checked out to appreciate the brilliance of 19th-century architecture.

Many of these Regency Terraced townhouses can be found steps away from the seafront along the 5.80 mile Brighton promenade.

6. Capture a sunset in view of the remains of West Pier

Sian Victoria © - Brighton West Pier at sunset

Opened in 1866, Brighton’s West Pier was a hotspot for Victorian day-trippers to the seaside town, featuring a funfair, concert hall and tearoom. Ultimately, however, the pier closed in 1975 and, through extreme weather conditions and two separate fires in recent years.

The pier, unfortunately, collapsed leaving behind its metal framework giving it an eerie skeleton look and creating a new home to birds and aquatic life. Making it a wonderfully scenic spot for nature to reclaim man-made objects.

Although West Pier is in disuse today, it’s one of the best stops to catch the sunset. Walk down to the beach just as the sun is setting and, through the remains of the pier, enjoy the beautiful views of this seaside city.

There has been discussion of building a contemporary West Pier ‘reflecting the brilliance of the original’. So that may be something new to see in Brighton in the future.

7. Stroll along Brighton beach and spot local historic landmarks

Although Brighton beach is made up of pebbles and not sand, it doesn’t stop it from being one of the best places for tourism in England. Named one of the Top 10 ‘cities with brilliant beaches’ by Lonely Planet, it’s clear that the millions of pebbles along the beach don’t put off tourists.

On a quieter day towards the autumn months, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll along the beach listening to the waves crashing and seagulls calling.

You’ll also spot the little Hove Beach Huts, distinctively painted in vibrant colours that reflect the colourful city itself, and also Brighton’s Bandstand. Initially opened in 1884, the bandstand was incredibly popular among Victorian locals and tourists with its ornate architectural features.

Re-opening in 2009, it’s occasionally used for live performances as well as a backdrop for wedding photographs. So, stroll along the promenade to discover one of the grandest and still surviving examples of a Victorian bandstand in England.

8. Enjoy Brighton’s vibrant art scene

Sian Victoria © - Brighton beach starling murmuration

The vibrancy of Brighton’s locals is truly felt through the city’s art scene, and the creativity can be seen all over. Take a photo with Bansky’s infamous ‘Kissing Coppers’ artwork on the wall of the Prince Albert Pub, and spot more fantastic graffiti art on North Laine – dotted around unique independent cafes and shops. You’ll find amazing street art from giant murals to smaller pieces that showcase the talent of Brighton’s inhabitants.

Or head to Hannington’s lane and London Road, to discover bright murals immediately catching your eye as you walk along the street. The vibrant examples of creativity don’t stop there, as Oliver’s Brighton, a Harry Potter shop on Trafalgar Street not only supplies magical items from the Wizarding World but also boasts a David Bowie tribute on the outside of the shop.

The Brighton Music Tunnel has got to be one of the best places to appreciate true artistic talent. Located adjacent to the Sea Life Centre, the tunnel is completely covered in tributes to music legends, painted by art students.

If you want to take in some more classical examples of art alongside seeing the new talent of the contemporary art scene, visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery. Explore collections of fine art, fashion pieces and interactive artworks that will amaze and inspire you, making for a perfect day out.

Ultimately, Brighton is filled with rich artwork, and you should take some time to appreciate it when visiting the city.

9. Shop at unique independents on The Lanes & North Laine

Sian Victoria © - Brighton sunset from Palace Pier

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Royal Pavilion

Sian Victoria © - Brighton beach starlings & British Airways i360

As well as boasting sensational artwork, North Laine and The Lanes is also home to wonderful independent eateries and shops. Immediately enter a new, funky, colourful world on these streets and discover what’s on offer.

Pop into vintage clothing shops and discover a whole array of fashion. Then support a small independent café to grab a coffee and a colourful layered rainbow cake while admiring the creativity of local artists. From retro and boutique shops to vegan eateries and art galleries, there are so many things to do and see in Brighton.

Brighton has a fantastic vegan food scene, so you’ll be spoilt for choice if you eat plant-based. You’ll be in foodie heaven. A few places also deliver, which was perfect for us when we arrived in Brighton on a night and was too tired to go looking for food. Eating delicious and creamy rainbow cake in bed was certainly a highlight too.

10. Go topsy-turvy at the Upside Down House and walk the Rainbow crossing

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Upside Down House & Rainbow crossing

Sian Victoria © - Brighton Upside Down House & British Airways i360

The Upside Down House is a fun and unique attraction that’s sure to entertain all ages. Situated on Kings Road Arches, this house on the seafront is unlike anything else in the city. Created as a street art installation, every room in the house is designed to give the illusion of being upside down, making for a topsy-turvy experience that’s fun for all the family, and the perfect place to take a few funny photos.

Costing £5 for a 20-minute visit to the house, this attraction is worth it and continues to highlight the creativity of Brighton’s art scene.

After you’ve felt like you’ve experienced zero-gravity in the house, you’ll spot the Rainbow Crossing just outside. The crossing was created by Lois O’Hara, to represent the buzzing LGBTQ+ scene of Brighton, and marks the celebrations of pride month.

For more inspiration to visit, watch my video below.

To conclude

So, there we go. A selection of the wonderful things you can get up to and see in the seaside city of Brighton that prove you can have just as much fun visiting in the Autumn and Winter months and have an unforgettable staycation in England during the offseason.

It’s no wonder that the city is referred to as London-on-sea; with such a buzzing atmosphere across the city, there’s something to entertain everyone. If you’re keen to plan a visit to Brighton and need somewhere to stay, why not check out my Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel review? It’s another grand example of Regency style architecture in Brighton.

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