Bohemian, eccentric and graced by regal charm, Brighton is a unique British city.
Which other coastal destination has Indo-Islamic architecture and an annual naked bike ride? There’s plenty of bucket-and-spade tradition, too, creating an idyllic place to relax by the sea. Discover it all with car rental in Brighton.
A taste of tradition
Piers have formed an important part of British seaside culture since the 19th century, and Brighton Palace Pier is one of the country’s most extravagant. It is a Grade-II listed building and there’s plenty to do, whatever the weather. Expect to see a fish and chip restaurant, fairground rides and traditional arcades.
If you’re travelling with children, they’ll adore the play area. This pier doesn’t shy away from going bold with its entertainment either – alongside historic Punch and Judy shows and carousels, you can drop into stylish food and drink venues with ocean views.
When you’ve finished riding the helter-skelter, head to Brighton Racecourse to experience the city’s traditional sport at a venue that dates back to 1783.
Regal highlights
Visit Brighton’s Royal Pavilion and you could feel like you are on the other side of the world in India. That’s because of the domed, ivory-toned palace which has stood here since the late 18th century.
Exotic, with all the opulence you would expect from a British palace, this fabled attraction is great to photograph from the outside or for some historical sightseeing.
The building was constructed as a summer retreat for Prince George – later Prince Regent and King George IV – and served as a secretive regal hideaway before the Victorian era brought a wave of visitors to Brighton.
You’ll find many royal relics on loan inside the banqueting and reception rooms. You’ll also see signs of the palace’s other historical function – as a military hospital for colonial soldiers during the First World War.
Experience quirky British subcultures
This city is more than just a pleasure beach – wander inland and you’ll discover famous district ‘The Lanes’. The further north you go, the more eccentric the stores, theatres and tea rooms become.
Brighton is well known for its LGBT scene, but on sunny Bank Holidays you might also glimpse local ‘Mods’ congregating by the beach in tribute to the cult film and Who album Quadrophenia, and the ‘50s and ‘60s sub-culture that thrived here.
To lose yourself in Brighton’s winding back streets is to take a walk on the city’s wild side. Art lovers may find the street art to be better than many other places, and every bit as worthwhile as Brighton’s impressive galleries.
21st century Brighton
Even the most alternative destinations have their well-trodden hotspots. British Airways i360 is the city’s futuristic observation tower, designed by the team behind the London Eye.
If you park up your rental car for the night, you can even enjoy sky-high refreshments at the top. This city doesn’t do half measures, though: the vibrant events calendar includes Yoga in the Sky, unique comedy nights and thrilling bungee jumps.
When you rent a car in Brighton, it’s easy to explore Britain’s colourful best. Tour the extravagant spots or simply relax in the sun with ice cream and a bit of Brighton Rock – the choice is yours.
