Firstly, it has been an incredibly long awaited time since I have posted on my blog. I have grown from the a seventeen year old girl who started this blog. I will update more on my life in later posts!
I wanted to return to my blog when I felt I am passionate again, I feel the time is now. I am ready to share to all my readers about any of my life experience, lifestyle and passion. To start the return, I have decided to write a guide on your way around Brighton. I went to university of Brighton (class of 2017), it would only be right to talk about this beautiful lively city that I was once apart of. Grab yourself a cuppa tea as this is quite a long read!
Brighton is a place of happiness, great atmosphere and a peaceful
"city" away from the hustle and bustle. It is a fabulous tourist destination and weekend away trip! Many hen and stag dos are held here on the weekends as well! We will talk about places to see, activities to do, where to stay and of course, FOOD (my favourite part)!
Places to Visit
You can walk from one end of Brighton to another and see the contrast, from graffiti art walls, grassy green parks to enjoy your coffee, to colourful beach houses alongside the seafront. There is a place for everyone in this mini city.
Below I have a listed some key areas you must visit if you do pop down to Brighton:
North Laine
Surround yourself around unique antique stores, from vintage collector stores to photo booth store. The findings in the Laine is incredible; you can wander along the bricked paved streets to endless number of market like stores. I tend to go in for a browse, I did purchase a snug bobble faux fur beanie one winter. There is also a fudge store called
Roly's Fudge if you enjoy a sweet treat; the selection of flavours are impeccable; from baileys, butterscotch, sea salt and more.
The Lanes
This area is allocated closer to the sea front, here you will be walking through narrow lanes and alleyways finding yourself looking at antiques and also higher end fashion stores; there are many jewellers and independent stores scattered across there. I always wander across to the
ChoccyWoccyDoodah to have a sneak peek of the amazing chocolate sculptures. You can also pop upstairs to the chocolate heaven cafe if you have time! Moreover, if you're an interior accessory lover (like me), you might like to pop into
England at Home; I love a nose around in there. By the time you've wormed your way around The Lanes, you may be thirsty or a little peckish, you can definitely find a nice little coffee shop here - I recommend you to pop into
Cafe Coho - their beverages and food menu is the perfect pit stop.
Churchill Square
The main shopping centre is a must visit if you fancy a shop! They're really investing capital into revamping the entire structure and interior of this building. I must say, it has become more lavish in comparison to when I was living there. They have shops including Topshop, Zara, River Island, Pull & Bear and Apple. The most common branded chains can be found in here. Also, there are plenty of common branded franchise eatery that can be found surrounding here. I know this is a common franchise fast food but I love
Kokoro - Japanese fast food; if you would like a quick chicken katsu with rice/ sweet chilli chicken with rice or even sushi, here is the place you need to stop by.
Seafront & The Pier
If you're a 'Wreck it Ralph' lover, meaning an arcade lover. Of course you'll have to pop over to the sea front to win yourself tokens and have a go at the
Pac Man air hockey table; it is definitely even more competitive and be prepared for flying air hockey discs. You will most definitely have to hop on a pier ride, there is a very frightening ride at the end of the pier which rotates you upside down in loops overlooking the sea; I can vouch I have not and will not ever go on this but I am quite fearful of most rides. This ride is made for the adrenaline junkies/ thrill seekers. If you do go on this, a round of applause shall be awarded to you.
Devil's Dyke
This location is made for the hikers. Bring your picnic baskets and walking shoes and find yourself a spot to lay your picnic blanket, to enjoy the views you can get from up there. You can also walk endlessly and also enjoy the fresh air up on the hills.
Seven Sisters
This is my favourite scenic visits that you can make. I have never been to a cliff side before and the view and experience as a whole is insane. Seven Sisters is just a drive or a bus journey away, you can find this location is very accessible as it is a tourist destination. I must say, the panoramic view, the bunnies hopping around and waves crashing are the reasons why I enjoy this walk very much.
What to do?
If you would like an activity to break up the day or make your visit even more exciting. The list below can give you a flavour of what there is to offer.
Escape room
My friends surprised me here to an hour of puzzle solving and using a mixture of general knowledge, common sense and unfolding hints to escape the room. We managed to escape but with extra clues, the owner is very friendly and the game was challenging and fun altogether. I definitely cannot escape here alone!
Mini Golf
- Seafront Mini Golf - An outdoor mini golf on the beach, the perfect trip whilst enjoying your ice cream.
- Glow balls - This location is indoors and a little away from town. It is in the Marina but if you enjoy glow in the dark dinosaur themed mini golf - this place is the one!
Zip wire
I have not been up the zip wire myself as it was not ready when I lived there. However, on the sea front there is a zip wire along the beach. It looks very exhilarating and good outdoor activity to do.
The Royal Pavilion
If you like to indulged yourself in history and architect. This is your place to visit! This palace is built for King George VI, however it was used as a military hospital. It annually holds a colourful display of the story of the the Pavilion shown in moving picture demonstration projected onto The Pavilion. It is a spectacular show, I thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the lawn watching the show amongst the crowd.
There is an inside local secret, the Royal Pavilion annually holds a free entry day. You would have to do your research and find the date, as I do not remember. However, it is worth the queue and save you the pennies. In winter they also have an ice rink there, definitely go even if you cannot skate like myself!
i 360
The newly built tourist trap allows you to travel vertically up Brighton, the view up on the pod is very scenic; it is beautiful once you're up in the sky and the journey is very smooth. It is the perfect landscape/ bird eyes view shot of Brighton and the sea. Once you've risen up to the highest point you can really see all the graffiti artist work on each building, I just wonder how did they even climb up there. Moreover, in the pod, you can enjoy a glass of beverage of your choice and take as many selfies as you please.
Karaoke Bar
I have never actually been into these bars but I have always wanted to, partly because none of my friends wanted to so sadly I missed out! However, it sounds fun especially when you've had a few to drink! It always sounds fun to sing along to some old classics. I know of
The Lucky Voice and
Slam Star.
Night life
If you're a night owl and love a night out. Brighton will not disappoint you, there are bars and clubs for all ages, events and nights. I went to a club called
The Haunt back in the days on "Cat Face" night, where you can only enter if you have a cat drawn on your face; this includes the whiskers and nose. Otherwise, you most definitely won't be let in. Moving on, there are plenty of places to enjoy, I particularly like
No 32, it is a little more sophisticated and it's a restaurant by day and bar/club by night. There are also approximately 3/4 seafront clubs and a few other bars along the beach. Also, don't worry, Brighton have you covered if you're looking for a 3 am meal. Hope along to
Buddies which is also on the seafront, that is how you finish a night out in Brighton correctly.
Where to stay ?
Where I would recommend to stay would be close to the city centre as it is notably obvious, it is easy accessible to to town and links to buses to the local nearby towns. I've heard the
The Artist Residence is the place to stay, as it is located at the Regency park (near the i360), and to interior is very unique compared to other hotels. If you can't or not staying here, you can also pop into the bar! I have also stayed in a B&B by the Regency park and it is very good location as you can easily walk anywhere.
Events
When is the best time to visit Brighton?
Pride
The most talked about event of the year is definitely pride, we all know what is is - it is to celebrate the LGBT community and to spread the love! I experienced my first pride in Brighton and it was the
BEST day and night literally. There's a parade during the day time and you can see volunteers and paraders marching down the streets holding their flags sharing the love. Everyone is most likely be drunk by midday! It is quite the entertainment. Almost every single person would be outdoors, on the streets and clustered on the beach. My friends and I spent the daytime on the beach then ventured into
The Hobgoblin and partied until our feet couldn't withstand anymore.
Foodie Festival
I am a food lover and especially a lover of food markets. I just love the different variety of food and drinks that a market has to offer. I can go round and have nibbles of anything I please. That is what I enjoy the most! Annually the Foodie Festival travels around the UK and stops off at Brighton around May (I believe) on the Hove lawns. You do have to buy entry tickets but it is worth it! There are plenty of freebie tasters and yummy food to select from. I was obsessed with the Thai stand as they had the most tender and flavoursome pork skewers; I literally went back for another two because the first round just wasn't enough! There are also of course savoury bakes, cakes, veggie, vegan, alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages for all. You won't be disappointed and it is for all ages.
Fringe Festival - Art Festival
If you're very into your art, you must have heard of this annual art festival held in Brighton? As it is known for the largest annual art festival in England and one of the largest in the world. If you parade around the streets around this time, you will be able to sea Brighton decorated with art banners and colours.
Food and Drinks marquees & Fun fair
I believe around May/June time is when the food and bar markets are set up in Brighton, they were located by
The Old Steine/ Grand Parade area and the fun fair is usually in
The Level. Around spring/summer time there are lots to do! As soon as the sun appears again Brighton becomes very lively.
Wildlife Festival
The music festival of Brighton is worth going! I went in my final summer there, the atmosphere is great! I met people from different places and partied till nightfall. There are different stages for different vibes, artists included George Ezra, Clean Bandit, Gorgon City, Giggs etc went in in 2017; It's a good "smaller" festival to venture to.
Circus - Thai Lady boys
This circus show is also annually held in Brighton. Well, at least for the three years that I have live down there. It is usually by
The Old Steine. You definitely cannot miss it! As there is a ginormous gazebo in the middle of the large roundabout. Unfortunately, I missed it and I tried to persuade my boyfriend to come with me but sadly he wasn't interested! I did hear reviews from my fellow ex colleagues that it is fantastic, as they engage with the audience and they might even pull you up on stage for a laugh!
Where to eat & drink?
This following list of restaurants are in no chronological order, all places are my loves. I highly recommend to visit any of these places and you won't be disappointed (don't vouch on that 😂 as I am relying on my taste buds)! Sadly, I don't have photos of each place I eat/drank in; you would just have to use your imagination as I describe the mouth watering food.
Giggling Squid - Thai
Good lunch menus for around £10; there are choices of four types of dishes for a single set meal for one. Good value for money and presentation is on point!
Lemongrass -
Thai
Another Thai cuisine, I just love Asian food! The choices of flavours and ambience of the restaurant is magnificent. I dined there with my friend and we both ordered a main dish with rice and starters; it was very filling and worth the visit. My friend even went back there for your family graduation meal.
Boho Gelato -
Dessert
I cannot rave about this place enough! I bought three tubs of their gelato for three consecutive days. Not to mention I did gain a fair few lbs however their gelato is
DELICIOUS. Flavours ranges from carrot cake, tirimisu, matcha, mango, cheesecake etc.... The list is endless and all their flavours are very unique. I highly recommend you to visit here regardless of the season. You just have to try it!
SIX -
British
I had breakfast here and it was so Instagram attractive! The food itself is very good and it is a nice relaxing restaurant in Hove to dine in. A little away from the town centre so it is more peaceful. You can order full English breakfast, vegetarian breakfast, eggs Benedict, pancakes & waffles to healthy vegan brunch bowls.
Lucky Beach Cafe -
British
This cafe is located by the beach front, you'll have to walk down the steps to the pebbles. There fish & chips there is the one to try! It's very fresh and cooked perfectly. Just wrap up warm if you're visiting in colder seasons as I learnt the hard way, the doors and windows are opened and definitely catches the sea breeze. Nevertheless, good range of British food to select from. I had fish & chips with calamari and a cup of coconut coffee the last time I visited.
Pinocchio -
Italian
This restaurant is real Italian food, not like a chain. They use good produce and flavouring and it is impeccable. I had to try a iconic main which was a spaghetti bolognese, tiramisu and aperol spritz. All the flavours were there and I think this is one of the best Italian restaurants that I've eat in.
Sushi Mania -
Japanese
All you can eat sushi?! That is all I need to say really. Sushi and selection of Japanese food is great! It is made to order so the sushi is freshly made in the kitchen. I highly recommend this place as it is great value for money!
Gin Tub -
Gin Distillery
100 types of different gin to try, served in a balloon glass. Definitely a must visit if you're a gin lover! The concept of the bar is interesting as well as there is an old fashioned telephone for you to call another table if you fancy a chat! Also, this bar is a table sharing place so if it gets busy you'll have to mingle with others. There is a downstairs however I don't quite remember whether it is a dance floor or extended bar.
Redroaster Cafe -
British
Cafe by day and restaurant by night. It is interesting that this restaurant changes its name by the time of the day! This place is B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L. It is like almost everyone's kitchen interior dreams! White marble tables, mirrored walls, high ceilings and light bouncing off each wall. Also, the plant decor is just right. Sometimes, you have to appreciate the atmosphere whilst enjoying your food! Anyway, back to the point - the food is a smaller portion size but flavouring and uniqueness is there! I had brunch here and I liked the different option to a normal cafe brunch place.
Hot dog stand -
British
This may sound crazy that I am recommending a hot dog stand BUT yes I am... because this is really the yummiest hot dog that I have ever had. It's not like a typical stand that is temporary, it is permanently there. It is located just outside of Churchill square shopping centre on Western road (outside JD). The three types of sausages, onions, bun and tomato mustard sauce..... dribble. Do I need to convince you anymore?
VIP Pizza -
Italian
Again, another real Italian restaurant. You must book for this place because it is THAT busy or you have to wait for your table (for a while). I highly recommend to book! I had a pizza - ham , spinach and walnuts (I believe) and it is flavoursome and some flavours that I've never seen on a menu. It is ran by Italians and they know what they're doing!
This is a 100% recommended.
Pompoko -
Japanese
A fast food cheap restaurant. This is a good quick easy meal! There are set menus of teriyaki chicken with rice to katsu chicken. You get the gist! Food comes extremely quick and very fast paced restaurant.
The Salt Room -
British
I would classify here is a higher end restaurant for sure. I came here for one valentine and had steak here. It was divine! They also had a lot of seafood on their menu and distinctive choices. You do get the 5* service here.
Dum Dum Donutterie -
Dessert
These doughnuts are scrumptious. Their cronuts are a must to try! I believe my first Dum Dum was a pistachio cronut and it is highly recommended! My boyfriend had a chocolate cronut and he loved it, he is not a dessert person either so that is a great feedback from him!
Pizza Face -
Italian Takeaway
If you're in the Hove region pop over to this pizza place. Only takeaways so you can take one back to your hotel or even picnic on the beach (watch out for the seagulls though)! This is the best takeaway pizza that you can get! The pizza with the parma ham is the one for me!
Wolfies of Hove -
Fish & Chips takeaway
Again, another in Hove. I highly highly highly rate this fish & chips. I honestly think their food is good. Good quality, portion and value. Very quick service and chicken nuggets is a must - just order a portion to share with your cod and chips! I don't think I can ever have enough of this place! Located right by Hove train station so very easy to get to!
The Regency -
Seafood
You probably have heard of this seafood restaurant on Trip advisor as it is that popular! You can't come to Brighton without trying this place. Grilled, deep fried and steamed seafood.... you name it, they have it! They also have a platter starter which is great to share - It has lobster, muscle and scallop etc; it is really tasty.
The New club -
British
I've only dined here for breakfast so can only make my judgement here. Great cafe and good coffee! I love it. They serve your typical full English but with a slight twist.
No 32-
British
Burgers, steak, fish.... another great British style cuisine. Restaurants by day and bar/club by night. Good cocktails here as well! They do also have a great lunch deal menu.
My "To Do" Restaurant List
When I return to Brighton & Hove once again, my next mission is to venture into the restaurants below. Unfortunately during my time of living there, I missed the chance to dine in these places listed. All restaurants either sounds or looks scrumptious or have been given very good reviews. If you do visit any of these, please comment and let me know how it is. I am such a food lover and a review trustee, if you have any recommendation. Please also do share!
- Holy Phok - Thai
- Etch - French, European, British
- Fishmerkan - Seafood
- Riddles & Finns -Seafood
- Burger Brothers - Takeaway Burger
- 64 Degrees - British
- The Chilli Pickle - Indian
I hope you have enjoyed reading this post about my love/ guide for Brighton! I hope this helps your way around and also give you a great flavour of what this mini City has to offer.
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| Ending with a beautiful evening shot of the beach. |
