If you’re planning on staying in Brighton for a few days after WordCamp Brighton, you might be wondering what to do with your spare time.
Luckily, there are loads of fun things to do in and near Brighton. To help with your exploring, we’ve pulled together a small fraction of our favourites.
If you’re looking for somewhere to work during your stay, check out our post about remote work spaces too.
In a hurry to find something fun? Skip ahead using these links:
- Brighton experiences
- Interesting shops
- Pubs, bars and clubs
- Places to eat
- Short trips out of the city
Also, don’t forget we’re having a Contribution Day on Sunday – you can find out all the details and sign up to attend here. You don’t need any previous contributor experience.
It’s going to be a fun day of contributing to the WordPress project, plus we’ve lined up some informative workshops.
Brighton experiences
Brighton Beach – Brighton is well known for its traditional seaside (and seagulls!). Ideal for cooling off on a hot day, sunbathing, and lined with shops. You can follow the beach right through to Hove and beyond.
Graffiti – Strolling around Brighton, you’re sure to come across local graffiti art. Visit Brighton lists maps of some of the top graffiti locations.
Brighton Toy Museum – Right by Brighton Train Station and very close to the WordCamp venue. Spend a few hours browsing their extensive collection of model trains, puppets and vintage soft toys.
Pavilion – The Royal Pavilion is a big palace right in the centre of Brighton. Built by King George IV, the Pavilion is absolutely stunning and a must-see.
i360 – It’s the brand new addition to Brighton’s seafront. Check it out from the ground, or take a ride up 450 feet for 360° views over Brighton.
Brighton Pier – If you’re wandering along the seafront, you can’t help but notice Brighton Pier. It’s dotted with seaside activities, including a roller coaster and arcades – plus fish and chips of course.
Duke of York’s Picturehouse – If you’re looking for a relaxed evening in watching arthouse films, head to Duke of York’s. Built in 1910, it’s thought to be the oldest cinema in the UK.
Interesting shops
Dave’s Comics – Located in Sydney Street among a whole host of independent shops, stop by Dave’s comics – a graphic novel shop filled with action figures, board games and a load of comics.
Many vinyl stores – As you explore Brighton, you’re bound to stumble on some of the many vinyl record stores. Each of these caters to different music tastes. Try Resident for new indie music, Across the Tracks for second hand amazingness, and the tiny Punker Bunker for punk.
Snooper’s Paradise – Filled with independent designers and bric a brac, Snooper’s Paradise makes for an eclectic shopping experience.
The Lanes – One of the things Brighton is most famous for – it’s packed with independent shops and boutiques, including Choccywoccydoodah.
Churchill Square – This is Brighton’s largest indoor shopping centre, where you can find all the usual high street shops and food.
Pubs, bars and clubs
North Laine Brewhouse – They brew their own beer on site and have an extensive selection of other drinks and food.
Shuffle Bar – A cocktail bar where you get to choose the music.
New Road – Right next to Brighton Dome, you can while away an afternoon on New Road and stay on well into the evening. Pop for a local craft beer at the newly renovated Mrs Fitzherbert’s, grab pizza at Pinocchio’s, head to the theatre-themed Colonnade Bar for a gin and follow up with a cocktail on the balcony at Bar Valentino.
The Black Lion – Right in the middle of the Lanes and near the seafront, The Black Lion is a place to hang out day or night. If the weather’s fine, you can sit outside in the courtyard where there’s a DJ every weekend.
Places to eat
Iydea – Delicious veggie food.
Pelican – A child friendly cafe and great place to work.
The Foundry – An awesome “proper pub” not far away from the venue.
Foodilic – Fantastic fresh food and excellent value for money.
Food for Friends – Ethical, award winning and delicious vegetarian restaurant.
Terre à terre – Another award winning ethical, vegetarian restaurant. Based in the Lanes since 1993 their amazing menu is packed with tasty, indulgent dishes.
Wai kika moo kau – Amazing brunch (and good value too).
Kensington Cafe – This place is all about the balcony and has a real 90s cafeteria vibe. Sit outside overlooking North Laine and choose from a yummy selection of all-day breakfasts and toasted sandwiches.
Short trips out of the city
Lewes (pronounced “Lewis”) – Just 15 minutes by train from Brighton Station. Lewes is a great place to visit for a few hours or a day. It’s a pretty town, the home of the Harvey’s Brewery, and is packed full of independent shops, pubs, restaurants and cafés.
Devil’s Dyke – On the South Downs, you can catch a bus or drive to Devil’s Dyke. You can even cycle or walk if you’re keen. A stunning place to wander through – and the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK.
Ditchling Beacon – And some more amazing views from the highest point in Sussex.
Do you have any suggestions of things to do in Brighton? We’d love you to share them in the comments below or over on Twitter using the hashtag #WCBTN.