Experience the city's energetic atmosphere at events like Brighton Festival, Brighton Pride, Brighton Fringe, and the Great Escape music festival. Dive into the local culture and celebrations!
Brighton's festival scene »Book direckly with the West Beach Hotel for the best Price
Discover Brighton’s Iconic Landmarks
Brighton, located in East Sussex on England's South East coast, is a vibrant and trendy coastal city, attracting over 8 million visitors annually. Known for its historic charm, nightlife, shopping, and diverse eateries, Brighton is a top tourist destination. The city also boasts a thriving student community, famous cultural events like the Brighton Marathon and Gay Pride, and iconic attractions such as the British Airways i360. The West Beach Hotel, centrally located, is the perfect base to explore all that Brighton has to offer.
Brighton Must-See Checklist
✓ West Pier
✓ i360 British Airways Panoramic Tower
✓ Brighton Palace Pier
✓ The Lanes
✓ Brighton Pavilion
✓ Brighton Marina
✓ The North Lanes
✓ Brighton Sea Life Center
✓ Art & Museums in Brighton
Brighton Seafront
The West Beach Hotel enjoys a prime seafront location, offering guests immediate access to the stunning Sussex coast. Step out the front door to explore expansive beaches, striking Victorian architecture, and charming coastal views. Just two minutes away, the British Airways i360 provides breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Sussex countryside.
Across from the West Pier, you'll find a collection of unique independent shops selling clothing, furniture, and art. Stroll along the lower waterfront promenade to discover a variety of restaurants and quirky cafes reminiscent of a traditional Fisherman's Village. At the promenade's end, the iconic Brighton Pier awaits with its classic British arcades, amusements, and beloved seaside fare, including fish and chips! Find out more on the Brighton Beach Front
West Pier
Established in 1866, the West Pier was a celebrated British landmark for nearly 150 years, attracting millions of visitors. It was the first structure in Britain to receive a Grade I listing for its architectural and historic significance before its closure in 1975. Despite its devastating fire in 2003, the pier's striking remnants continue to enhance the Brighton coastline with their haunting beauty, making it one of the city's most photogenic landmarks.
The West Beach Hotel proudly bears the name of the iconic West Pier, located right in front of the hotel. Guests at our seafront rooms can enjoy stunning views of this historic landmark, offering a truly memorable and picturesque experience. Find out more about the West Pier at the Brighton Beach Front.
i360 British Airways Panoramic Tower
Located directly outside the hotel, the British Airways i360 stands at 138 meters, making it the world's tallest moving observation tower. This iconic landmark offers guests unparalleled 360° views of Brighton's cityscape and the picturesque Sussex countryside.
Designed by the same team behind the London Eye, the i360 opened in August 2016 and has already captivated over 500,000 visitors with its stunning vistas in its first year alone.
Brighton Palace Pier
The Brighton Palace Pier, nestled in the heart of Brighton, is an iconic Victorian structure brimming with attractions for all ages. With its array of arcade machines, thrilling rides, games, and diverse food options, the pier combines traditional seaside charm with the vibrant energy of modern Brighton. Celebrated as one of the finest piers ever built, it has been a beloved part of Brighton's landscape since its opening in 1899.
Featured prominently in British popular culture for over a century, the Brighton Palace Pier is the most visited tourist attraction outside London, drawing approximately 4 million visitors annually. Conveniently located just 10 minutes from the West Beach Hotel's promenade, it promises a fantastic day out for families and friends alike, open year-round.
Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is a vibrant and iconic destination on the South Coast of England, known for its pebbled shores, lively atmosphere, and stunning sea views. The beach is a favorite spot for both locals and visitors, offering a range of activities from sunbathing and swimming to beachside cafés and lively entertainment.
The nearby promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, and the historic Brighton Pier adds a nostalgic touch with its traditional amusements and dining options. Whether you're looking to relax by the sea or explore the bustling surroundings, Brighton Beach is the perfect place to soak up the coastal charm.
The Lanes
Just a 5-minute walk from the hotel, The Lanes offer a maze of narrow streets and alleyways in the heart of Brighton. Renowned for their charming shops and delightful eateries, this historic district invites you to wander and explore.
Lose yourself in its unique boutiques, savor some delectable chocolate, or enjoy a classic British tea. For a touch of intrigue, consider joining a ghost walk to uncover Brighton's haunted history. The Lanes provide a wonderful glimpse into the city's vibrant culture and rich heritage.
Brighton Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion, designed by John Nash for the Prince Regent George, Prince of Wales, in the late 1700s, is renowned worldwide for its distinctive Indo-Saracenic architecture, which was popular in 19th-century India. Originally a royal palace, it was repurposed as a military hospital during World War I and later restored after World War II. Today, it attracts around 400,000 visitors annually.
With over 300 years of history, Brighton showcases its evolution from a humble fishing village to a fashionable seaside resort through its stunning architecture. The Royal Pavilion, now home to a museum, invites visitors to explore its royal past, marvel at its exquisite interiors and ceilings, and enjoy its serene surroundings.
Brighton Marina
Brighton Marina stands as one of the largest in Europe, boasting over 1,500 berths. This vibrant destination offers a wealth of activities for everyone to enjoy during a leisurely stroll around the Marina. Visitors can explore a cinema, casino, and a variety of restaurants and bars. For those seeking adventure, boat and fishing trips are readily available. The Marina also hosts a weekly car boot sale, ideal for bargain hunters, and a range of small festivals throughout the year.
Constructed between 1971 and 1979, Brighton Marina has been continuously enhanced since its opening. Its diverse seasonal events ensure there's always something exciting happening, making it a lively and engaging place to visit year-round.
The North Laines
If you enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Camden Town, you'll be captivated by the retro charm of Brighton's North Laines. This eclectic shopping district, nestled in the heart of the city's cultural quarter, features a labyrinth of streets brimming with character. Here, you'll discover a delightful mix of quirky boutiques, trendy shops, vintage stores, music emporiums, and charming tea rooms.
With over 400 independent shops, cafés, and entertainment spots to explore, the North Laines offers a truly unique shopping experience. Don't miss the modern library and the lively public square, which have become central to the community since 2005. A visit to Brighton would be incomplete without exploring this enchanting area.
Brighton Sea Life Center
Adjacent to the iconic Brighton Pier, the Brighton Sea Life Centre stands as the oldest aquarium in the UK. This historic Victorian building not only showcases remarkable architecture but also houses an impressive array of marine life. It offers a captivating experience for visitors of all ages and is a top choice for family-friendly activities in Brighton.
Spend a delightful day with your loved ones, surrounded by fascinating sea creatures and engaging exhibits!
Art & Museums in Brighton
Brighton is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, featuring a wide range of galleries and museums. Here are three key places to explore:
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery: Located in the Royal Pavilion Gardens, this central cultural hub offers diverse exhibitions, including fine art, fashion, and local history.
Hove Museum & Art Gallery: Known for its rich collection of art, crafts, and local history, this Hove museum is a key player in the local art scene.
Booth Museum of Natural History: Situated on Dyke Road, this museum showcases an impressive array of bird specimens and fossils, offering a fascinating look at the natural world.
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