I’m Dice, a Japanese resident in London. With November well underway, the chill in the air is becoming more noticeable.
In this blog, I’ll be introducing Brighton, a popular British seaside resort perfect for day trips from London. Known in Japan due to football player Kaoru Mitoma’s club team being based here, Brighton is a familiar name to many. This post is for those looking to explore beyond London and experience the charm of a city with a vibrant football club. I’ll be sharing a plan that allows you to fully enjoy Brighton before sunset.
How to get to Lewes from central London
Next, I’ll explain how to get to Lewes from central London.
First, head to Brighton by taking the Southern Railway from central London (e.g., London Bridge station). While this might seem like something you could easily check on Google Maps, I’m sharing this information due to a few important points to keep in mind.
- The first point is: Oyster cards cannot be used! Remember that Oyster cards are only valid within London. Although you might be able to tap in and pass through the gate in London, you won’t be able to get through the barriers at Brighton.
- The second point is that purchasing an Off-Peak Day Return Ticket can save you about a third of the usual fare. This type of return ticket is cheaper than buying two single tickets, so make sure to take advantage of this option.
When you arrive in Brighton, you’re greeted by charming signs that set the welcoming tone of the city.
Six Highlights of Brighton
Now, let’s dive into the highlights and must-visit attractions in Brighton. I’ll introduce each spot in the order you’ll encounter them as you walk from the station towards the beach.
Highlight 1: Brighton’s cityscape
The first highlight isn’t a specific landmark, but rather the overall energy and spacious feel of the city itself! Brighton, known as one of the UK’s resort towns, has a cleanliness and relaxed atmosphere that stands in contrast to the hustle of London. You can feel a slower pace of life as people stroll without rush, creating a sense of calm that permeates the streets. The abundance of shops adds a lively buzz, yet the town maintains an open, carefree vibe that makes simply walking around an enjoyable experience. This unique combination is what I believe to be Brighton’s greatest charm!
For a better sense of the atmosphere, videos can capture it far more effectively than still images—be sure to check out my YouTube channel for a closer look!
As you walk towards the beach, you’ll come across an area lined with colorful houses! You can also feel the owners’ attention to detail in the sense of unity.
Highlight 2: Royal Pavilion
The second highlight is the Royal Pavilion, located en route to the beach. This former royal residence was built by King George IV as a seaside retreat and is an architectural gem that embodies the Western fascination with the “mystical and exotic East.” The central dome, inspired by the Taj Mahal, showcases Indo-Islamic design elements.
In front of the palace, there is a square that makes for a perfect spot to relax and read a book. The grounds also house a museum and an art gallery, so if you’re interested, be sure to visit them.
Highlight 3: Brighton Beach
The third highlight is the endlessly stretching beachside! What sets Brighton Beach apart is its pebbled shore instead of sand. While the crunching sound underfoot might make some people prefer the ease of walking on a sandy beach, one advantage of the pebbled beach is that you won’t end up with sand in your shoes as you walk along the shore.
Additionally, the town is full of seagulls! They seem quite accustomed to people, showing little concern even when someone is nearby. For those visiting from London, it creates a sense of being warmly welcomed as part of the local atmosphere.
For a better sense of the atmosphere, videos can capture it far more effectively than still images—be sure to check out my YouTube channel for a closer look!
Highlight 4: Brighton Palace Pier
The fourth highlight is the amusement park on the sea, Brighton Palace Pier. While some might just take a quick look, those who enjoy amusement parks or are visiting with children will likely have a great time. The pier features a roller coaster that lets you enjoy the thrill while gazing out at the sea—an experience unlike any other amusement park.
Highlight 5: Upside-down house
The fifth highlight is the Upside Down House that you’ll come across while walking along the beach! It appears that everything inside the house is also flipped upside down. If you’re looking to take some unique and quirky photos, be sure to step inside and check it out!
Highlight 6: Brighton i360
The sixth highlight is the Brighton i360, a tower that offers 360-degree views and changes in height. If you want to take in panoramic views of Brighton, this is a must-visit spot. Interestingly, it’s recognized by the Guinness World Records as the “world’s thinnest tower.”
Recommended restaurant ‘Regency Restaurant’
Finally, I’d like to introduce Regency Restaurant, known for its delicious seafood. This restaurant is located very close to the Brighton i360. They serve fresh fish sourced directly from the nearby port. The oysters (£7 for 2) were small but had no unpleasant aftertaste, making them easy to enjoy. The Fried Fillet of Cod (£14.5) and the Seabass Fillets (£22.95) were both rich in flavor and well-seasoned, making them a delightful experience.
Conclusion
How is it?
This time, I introduced Brighton, a resort beach in England that you can visit on a day trip from London. This guide was tailored for those looking to explore destinations beyond London or who are curious about the city that hosts a well-known football club. If you have more time, I encourage you to enjoy other attractions at a relaxed pace.
London is filled with countless fascinating spots to explore. Depending on your travel purpose, I’ll continue to share recommendations and model courses with unique insights that only a Japanese resident could provide, so be sure to check out my other blog posts.
Additionally, I’m sharing my life in London and travels around Europe on YouTube. Through videos, you can experience real moments, beautiful scenery, and an authentic feel that goes beyond what words can convey, so please visit my channel as well!
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mriiy15
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