Brighton has to be my all-time-favourite seaside town. My sister got married there and it holds incredible memories for me. However nuptials aside, it’s an awesome place to visit. I can’t think of another coastal town that offers the diversity of culture, nightlife, restaurants and shopping, all alongside the backdrop of a glorious pebble beach.

There are a million and one things to do in Brighton so here’s a condensed list of a few of my own favourites and a few recommendations from friends and readers too.
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Eating and Drinking

I could go on and on and on about this one so I’ve limited myself to just a few covering all types of tastebuds.

  • The Tea Cosy, Kemptown
    Probably the most eccentric tearoom you’ll ever visit. The whole place is decked out from floor to ceiling with Royal memorabilia but even if you’re not a Royalist, you’ll love the kitsch experience.
  • Food for Friends, South Lanes
    A must for veggies. A delectable selection of the finest vegetarian based dishes in plush surroundings.
  • The Coal Shed, South Lanes
    Specialising in Sunday Sharing Roasts, you can tuck in to a full bird with all the trimmings.
  • Chilli Pickle, Jubilee Square
    A friend of mine rates this Indian as serving the tastiest food in Brighton.
  • Riddle and Finns, South Lanes
    With decadent candle dripped candelabras, marble tops and tiled walls, this oyster and champagne restaurant has a great atmosphere and top notch service.
  • Havana, Duke Street
    Sadly their sister restaurant Havana Spoon has now closed. (I had the best meal EVER here a few years ago so I’m mourning the loss). The main colonial style restaurant in Brighton is still going strong and serves amazing cocktails.
  • The White Rabbit, Kensington Gardens
    Okay so it has a slightly offbeat interior but this place is a must for people watching. Situated in the North Laine you can soak up the vibrant atmosphere over a glass of vino.

    • Shopping

    Quite simply, the shopping in Brighton is immense. Save up before you visit because it’s practically impossible not to part with some of your hard earned cash.

  • i gigi, Hove
    Venture a little out of the main town centre towards Hove and you’ll find this utterly divine homeware shop. It’s the most serene of settings with muted decor and I guarantee you’ll want to buy one of everything. Also home to a smashing little eatery upstairs that is a must for brunch.
  • Snooper’s Paradise, Kensington Gardens
    Once you’ve walked through the turnstiles, prepare to spend several hours in here. There are so many vintage pieces to take a look at in this labyrinth of antiques, but there are also some jumble sale style pieces here so you have to be prepared to hunt! The Photo Booth is also great for a laugh.
  • Every single shop in the North Laine area
    For unique and quirky shops get yourself down to the North Laine. There’s over 400 boutiques, cafes and pubs in this area. As it’s near the station it can be your first port of call when you jump off the train. My personal favourites include Lavender Room and Utility.
  • Workshop, Prince Albert Street
    Recommended by Rock My Style reader Emma, I’m looking forward to visiting this new homeware and lifestyle shop on my next trip.

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    {The Beach}

    The approach up to the iconic Pier is great for a photo opportunity. However if amusements aren’t your thing then there’s no need to take the stroll along the Pier.
    Instead head along the promenade to take in the haunting remains of the West Pier and marvel at the stunning restoration of the Bandstand. (Where two of my dearest friends will be marrying this Summer. Hooray!) To escape the crowds walk down towards Hove and enjoy the famed painted beach huts.

    {Ice Cream}

    For utterly delicious gelato look no further than Gelato Gusto. The queue will be out the door but you can marvel at the gorgeous decor (while your change your mind fifteen times on what flavour to order) in this artisan ice cream parlour.

    {Upcoming Events}
  • This coming weekend (29th – 30th March) Brighton is hosting the Chocolate Festival. Two days fuelled full of the cocoa stuff. Yum.
  • The first weekend in April sees the Marathon return to Brighton with Paula Radcliffe as the official Starter.
  • Widely regarded as the biggest and best Gay Pride Festival in the UK, Brighton Pride will take place on the 2nd August.

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    Hopefully I’ve done the place justice. I have so many recommendations for this fabulous town and I’m really keen to hear yours too. Where do you eat, drink and soak up the sun in Brighton? I would particularly like to hear where you rest your head too!