Brighton
Located on the south coast of England and positioned 47 miles south of London, Brighton is a seaside resort in the county of East Sussex. It is a constituent part of the city of Brighton and Hove, created from the formerly separate towns of Brighton and Hove.
Details
Before visiting any town or city make sure you know the basics. General details and important information.
- Emergency Services: 999
- Language: English
- Currency: British Pound
- Country Code: GB
- Travel Visa: None required
- Population: 155,919
Risk Level
Researching various official sources, we perceive the risk to holiday makers and travellers are as follows;
Travellers Tips
Top travel advice and interesting tip bits of information from experienced travellers.
Emergencies
For the Emergency services just dial 999 from any phone, for not so serious situations please dial 101.
Hospitals
Tourist Offices
Click the text below for more information.
Travelling Around
Brighton and Hove is so compact, that once you’re here, you might find it easiest to explore the city on foot. But whatever you decide, travel in Brighton is easy.
Airports
Click the text below for more information.
Train Stations
Kings Cross Station www.networkrail.co.uk
St Pancras International Station stpancras.com
Victoria Station www.networkrail.co.uk
Brighton Safety
Where can I keep up the local news?
Brighton has local news media outlets. Click the text below for more information.
What are the common crimes?
Beware of pickpockets as they tend to operate in tourist areas, keep your belongings secure at all times and be careful if strangers try to make conversation or distract you as it could be an attempt to steal your valuables.
Car thieves normally target expensive cars but there are some exceptional situations where rental cars have been broken in to. Park the car in well lit areas and use car park with CCTV. Don’t leave valuables on your car seat as it could attract criminals, drive with the car door locked all times.
Crime levels are fairly low in the area, although it is always sensible to maintain an awareness of your surroundings and try not to look like too much of a tourist! If you fancy taking a swim in the sea, just remember not to leave your valuables unattended on the beach.
Which areas should I take extra care?
There are no real crime hotspots in the city, take extra care in busy tourist areas and apply the usual safety precautions. Watch out for quiet areas after dark and stay in the well lit main streets, and stay within the crowd.
What are the top safety tips?
Be alert at all times and be aware of your surroundings. Take the usual safety precautions so you do not become a targets for pickpockets. Don’t put your wallet or mobile phone in your back pocket. Put any valuables items in a dark colour shopping bag when going out to avoid attention.
When withdrawing cash from ATM try to go inside the bank. Beware of withdrawing cash from cash points on pedestrian walkways. Try to withdraw small sums and don’t flash your cash around even in the bank.
Avoid eating your fish and chips on the edge of Brighton Pier, as seagulls are likely to swoop down and pinch your food!
Improve Your Personal Safety
Knowledge – the more you have the better equipped you are.
Awareness – the more you see the safer you become.
Response – the right reaction can change a situation.
Annual Events
Annual events allow a city come together for some amazing experiences. If visiting at this time, make sure you have your accommodation booked and are always aware of your surroundings when travelling around.
Events
Sample a wide variety of local beer, cider, perries and wine in the heart of Hove at the Sussex Beer Festival, which takes places in the springtime. The festival is scheduled to take place on the 6 – 8th March 2014 at Hove Town Hall.
Brighton’s answer to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Brighton Fringe is the largest arts festival in England, offering cabaret and comedy acts, classical concerts, club nights, theatre and exhibitions.
Every May during the Brighton Festival, local artists open their homes and display their artwork to the public, free of charge, with the opportunity to buy pieces which take your fancy.
Lace up your running shoes for the Brighton and Hove Half Marathon, which takes place on the third Sunday in February. The race covers 13.1 miles of seafront and city centre, starting and finishing at Madeira Drive.
An alternative London to Brighton Bike Ride, the Capital to Coast Bike Ride raises money for two fantastic charities – Norwood and the Down’s Syndrome Association. Participants can choose between four routes of varying length, all ending in the charming location of Hove Lawns.
On the first weekend of July, Hove Lawns hosts Europe’s biggest free beach and watersports festival. The event features live music and children’s entertainment, alongside sports performances and the opportunity to try out some watersports activities yourself.
Brighton and Hove 999 Fun Day is a great opportunity for kids to learn all about the emergency services. Meet the local Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance, Coastguard and Lifeboat services and take part in lots of fun activities. The event takes place at Hove Lawns and involves arena demonstrations, children’s activities and competitions, information stalls, and a small funfair.
A local tradition for almost two decades, Burning the Clocks attracts around 3,000 spectators. To celebrate the Winter Solstice, local people make their own intricate paper lanterns and parade through the city centre, culminating in a fireworks display on the beach. The parade takes place on the 21st December, leaving from New Road at 6:30pm and ending at Madeira Drive.
Brighton Highlights
Can I see great art in Brighton?
Yes! Here are some fantastic art galleries in the city. Click the text below for more information.
Visit Enter Gallery in the heart of Brighton’s North Laine to view their extensive collection of limited edition art and original art from today’s leading contemporary artists.
Located in the renowned Brighton Artists Quarter, Zorian Artworks is directly on the seafront promenade, contributing to the extensive art scene in the city. Opening out onto the beach next to Brighton pier it is a great to stop and just enjoy the art or purchase a piece that would look great in your home.
Conclave is an independent, affordable, contemporary art gallery and creative hub in the heart of beautiful, art-loving Brighton
Where else is great to visit?
The Rendezvous, located in the Brighton Marina, bills itself as a ‘complete entertainment destination.’ As well as playing black jack, roulette, poker and slot machines, visitors can also watch live sports broadcasts and enjoy food and drink in the bar.
The Royal Pavilion was commissioned by King George IV in the late 18th and early 19th century. Built in a remarkable oriental style, this extravagant seaside palace is a famous landmark which represents the vibrancy of the Brighton and Hove region. The Pavilion houses a beautiful collection of Regency silver-gilt, furniture and art work, including original pieces lent by the Queen. Visitors can also stop for tea and cake in the Royal Pavilion Tearoom, with its balcony overlooking the splendid Pavilion gardens.
What are the highlight attractions?
Perhaps one of Brighton’s most famous landmarks, the Victorian pier is a must-visit for any tourist. It offers a traditional British seaside experience including a fairground, games arcade and of course, a fish and chip restaurant!
Brighton Marina, one of the largest in Europe, offers a range of attractions which cater to families and young professionals alike. Leisure activities on offer include diving, sailing, fishing and bowling, or visitors may wish to take a trip to the cinema or casino. The Marina also boasts a diverse choice of restaurants and bars which are open late into the night. Free parking is available to all Marina visitors.
Booth Museum of Natural History
The Booth Museum was founded in 1874 and is home to artefacts dating back three centuries. Natural history is brought to life through interactive and hands-on displays, featuring birds, insects, dinosaur bones and a killer whale skeleton. Admission is free.
