Brighton is the kind of place that just oozes charm. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for something new or a visitor looking to soak up the best of the seaside city, there’s always something exciting happening here.
From quirky workshops to hidden foodie spots, this guide will help you plan the perfect Brighton day trip - one filled with independent shops, unforgettable experiences and plenty of moments that’ll make you fall in love with the city all over again.
So, grab your sunnies (or an umbrella, this is the UK, after all), and let’s dive into a day of adventure!
Morning: brunch and a wander through The Lanes
Start the Day at One of Brighton’s Best Brunch Spots
First things first: food. You can’t take on the day without a solid brunch, and luckily, Brighton is full of incredible spots to kick things off.
Head to Oeuf in Hove for dreamy eggs and Insta-worthy interiors, or grab a table at Lost in the Lanes, a tucked-away café in The Lanes serving up fresh, seasonal dishes. If you’re after something with a bit more personality, Starfish & Coffee in Kemptown is a local favorite known for its legendary pancakes.
Get lost in The Lanes
Once you’re fuelled up, take a wander through The Lanes, Brighton’s iconic maze of cobbled alleyways filled with independent shops, vintage boutiques and quirky cafes.
It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir (or just window-shop and pretend you don’t want everything). Keep an eye out for Brighton’s hidden gems - tiny bookstores, tucked-away coffee shops and one-of-a-kind jewellery stores are waiting to be discovered around every corner.
Late morning: time to get creative
Try a pottery class in Brighton
Feeling inspired? Brighton is a creative hub, and there’s no better way to tap into that than with a hands-on workshop. Why not try your hand at pottery at Pepper Pot Pottery? Whether you fancy wheel-throwing or hand-building, you’ll get to design, shape and decorate your own ceramic creation.
Afternoon: foodie adventures and seaside strolls
Join a Brighton food tour
If you’re a self-confessed foodie, a guided Brighton Food Tour is an absolute must.
You’ll get to sample dishes from some of the best independent eateries in the city, while also learning fun facts about Brighton’s delicious culinary history. Expect everything from artisan chocolates to freshly baked sourdough to the best fish and chips in town.
Take a walk along Brighton Pier
After all that deliciousness, stretch your legs with a stroll along Brighton Palace Pier. It’s cheesy, it’s nostalgic and it’s a rite of passage. Grab some candy floss, try (and probably fail) to win a stuffed animal at the arcade, and soak in those gorgeous sea views.
Late afternoon: relax and reset
Relax into a unique wellbeing session
If you’re craving a break from the hustle and bustle, a relaxing wellbeing session is just the thing. Whether you want to unwind in a goat yoga session or reset at a grounding cold water therapy retreat, find your zen in Brighton and Hove.
Evening: dinner and a quirky night out
Dine at One of Brighton’s Hidden Gems
Dinner time! Skip the big chains and head somewhere special. Cin Cin is a tiny Italian spot serving up fresh handmade pasta, while Kindling focuses on seasonal, sustainable dishes packed with flavour.
End the night with a magical cocktail experience
Brighton’s nightlife is as eclectic as the city itself, so why not finish your day with a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience?
The Cauldron is a Harry Potter-esque bar where you can mix your own potions (aka cocktails) using magic wands, while Twisted Lemon is a tiny, unassuming cocktail bar with some of the best drinks in town. The latter is one of our fave spots for date night.
Extra fun for families
If you’re exploring Brighton with kids, don’t worry, there’s plenty for them too. SEA LIFE Brighton is one of the top attractions in Brighton for families, offering an up-close look at everything from sharks to seahorses.
Another great pick? A ride on the Volk’s Electric Railway, the world’s oldest operating electric railway, which gives you stunning coastal views without tiring out little legs.
Ready to get exploring?
Brighton is a city that never gets boring. Whether you’re crafting your own ceramics, discovering hidden street art or digging into a secret dining experience, there’s always something new to try. So, next time you’re planning a Brighton day trip, skip the usual tourist traps and dive into the independent experiences that make this city so special.
Looking for even more ideas? Check out all the best Brighton hidden gems right here!
