A WEEKEND IN
Brighton, East Sussex
I still remember the first time I heard of Brighton. It was the early 2010s, and I was deep in the world of YouTube — watching Zoella’s vlogs filled with soft fairy lights, candles, and cozy chats in a pastel-toned flat by the sea. Back then, Brighton felt like a whimsical place from another universe — part dreamy seaside town, part YouTuber fairytale.
Brighton is the perfect weekend getaway — with its beach, vibrant culture, indie shops, nightlife, and creative buzz, it really does have everything. We spent our first weekend away in Brighton back in February, and it was a blast.
Here are some of my must-visit spots:
Brighton Pier
An iconic spot, and one that completely lives up to the hype. Grab an ice cream (yes, even in February), browse the souvenir shops, and try your luck in the arcades. There’s a nostalgic charm about the pier that’s hard to beat.
Bonus tip: Visit between late October and early March and you might catch the starling murmurations at dusk — thousands of birds dancing in mesmerising swirls above the sea. It’s absolutely breathtaking.
The Royal Pavilion
Built by George IV, the Royal Pavilion is a fantasy of domes, minarets, and lavish interiors. It’s one of the most unique examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture in the UK.
At £19.50 a ticket, it’s on the pricey side — but it’s valid for a full year, so you can return any time. They often host exhibitions and events inside the Pavilion too, which adds even more magic to the experience.
The Lanes & North Laine
Brighton’s famous for its quirky lanes, and they’re honestly a shopper’s dream. Snoopers Paradise is a must — a huge indoor flea market full of vintage gems, books, jewellery, and retro curiosities. You could spend hours in there alone.
Wander through North Laine to find colourful street art, record shops, indie cafés, and handmade treasures. It’s Brighton at its most creative, with something different around every corner.
Flea Markets and Independent Shops
If you love a rummage, Brighton won’t disappoint. Beyond Snoopers, there are local flea markets and pop-up vintage fairs almost every weekend. A great place to start is the Brighton Open Market or Brighton Flea at the Marina, depending on when you visit.
Preston Park
Just outside the city centre, Preston Park is Brighton’s largest urban park and a beautiful place to pause. Perfect for a wander or picnic, it’s spacious, green, and surprisingly peaceful. On sunny days, locals spill out with blankets, footballs, and takeaway coffees.
Stanmer Park Nature Reserve
If you’re craving more nature, Stanmer Park is a short drive or bus ride away — and well worth it. Think meadows, ancient woodland, and deer if you’re lucky. It’s the kind of place where you can stretch your legs and breathe a little deeper after a busy day in the city.
Brighton is a must-visit when exploring the south coast. With its colourful lanes, vibrant seafront, and a creative energy that hums through every street, the city offers the perfect mix of seaside nostalgia and modern culture.