The charming seaside city home to famous faces and top-notch fish and chips

Brighton and Hove has long been a favourite for family staycations, but in recent years it has emerged as the perfect spot for a family getaway.

A decade ago, when I first started frequenting this East Sussex seaside city, it had become an unexpected hub for the UK's YouTube scene, teeming with young fans hoping to cross paths with one of the many British YouTubers residing there.

From lifestyle content creators turned YouTube couple, Zoe Sugg (formerly known as Zoella) and Alfie Deyes, to one of the platform's most renowned stars - PewDiePie (Felix Kjellberg) - Brighton has been and continues to be home to a significant number of video creators.

Whether it was its proximity and easy access to London that contributed to the influx of YouTubers choosing to settle in the seaside resort, or the lure of one of the country's best piers, remains uncertain.

However, one thing is for sure - Brighton is a picturesque and quintessentially British seaside retreat offering a range of activities, access to nature, excellent accommodation and, of course, top-notch fish and chips, reports the Mirror. Here is my guide to the best that Brighton has to offer...

Things to do

Brighton's iconic piers are a must-see for any visitor. The West Pier, despite being reduced to a skeletal framework, still holds a certain charm.

Opened in 1866, it was the first pier to be granted Grade I status in England. However, after closing its doors to the public in 1975, the structure gradually succumbed to the elements. Major sections were lost to the sea during the storms of 2002.

The pier suffered further damage from two fires in 2003, and parts were demolished in 2010 to make way for the i360 observation tower. Yet, the ruins continue to draw visitors, a testament to its Victorian grandeur.

On the other hand, the Brighton Palace Pier, established in 1899 as the city's third pier, remains fully operational and boasts a Grade II* status. Today, it offers an array of rides and eateries.

Personally, I found the West Pier more intriguing - there's something captivating about witnessing the passage of time etched into its remains.

One of the highlights of my visit was ascending the i360. This towering observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of Brighton, including both piers.

While it's not for the faint-hearted or ideal in poor weather, the vistas are truly spectacular. The on-board bar adds a nice touch, allowing you to enjoy a drink while soaking up the view.

Teen rom-com enthusiasts might recognise the seafront and beach from the film Angus Thongs and Perfect Snogging, including the memorable scene where Georgia gallivants around dressed as an olive... Exploring the streets of Brighton is equally enjoyable. The Lanes, a renowned part of the city, offer a maze of streets brimming with fantastic jewellers and independent shops.

Some sections of The Lanes date back to the 16th Century when Brighton was merely a small fishing town.

These narrow alleyways, known locally as 'twittens', conceal some of Brighton's most thrilling spots, including the Cricketers Arms, reputedly the oldest pub in the area. During the summer, The Lanes come alive with buskers playing a range of music.

For those with a penchant for vintage clothing, this area is a treasure trove. In my view, The Royal Pavilion is a must-visit. This extravagant and ornate edifice was originally built as the seaside pleasure palace for King George IV.

Over time, it has served various purposes, including functioning as a wartime hospital. The Pavilion hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year. However, for me, the sheer opulence of its gold interiors was worth the visit alone. Entry costs £19 per adult.

Accommodation options

Brighton boasts a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels and B&Bs to Airbnb properties. During my visit, I stayed in a penthouse apartment situated in a narrow building.

It offered stunning views of the streets below and the sea beyond. The outdoor roof terrace was a delightful spot to enjoy a morning coffee while taking in the invigorating sea air.

Airbnb options in the area range from budget flats to luxury pads hosted by superhosts, with prices starting as low as £59 per night.

The Grand Brighton, which opened its doors in 1864, is another noteworthy place to stay. Not only does it feature an ornate façade and interiors, but it also housed the first lift outside of London.

Situated on the seafront, this luxury five-star hotel offers rooms starting at £140 per night.

This year, the hotel is set to celebrate its significant 160th anniversary on July 21. To commemorate this milestone, the establishment is inviting guests to take a nostalgic journey through its rich history via a photographic exhibition in partnership with Brighton Past.

The exhibit will be accessible to the public daily from 9am to 9pm, running from July 15-28.

Brighton boasts a plethora of eateries, coffee houses and cafes. And who better to guide you through the best spots than a local? In one of his 2023 vlogs, Alfie Deyes shared several favourite haunts that he and his fiance Zoe frequent.

Flint Owl Bakery, known for its soft bread made with organic flours, primarily stone ground, has quickly become a hit among locals and tourists alike, thanks to their farm-to-table approach.

The YouTube pair also recommend Pompoko - a Japanese eatery offering hearty classics at great value. If it's pub grub you're after, then make your way to The Pond. This independent pub offers a global selection of beers and Taiwanese steamed buns for the ultimate comfort food experience.

If you're planning a trip to the seaside, then indulging in a portion of fish and chips is almost obligatory. Brighton boasts a plethora of top-notch chippies, with Bardsley's being perhaps the most renowned - it's an institution in the city.

Whether you choose to dine in or take away, Bardsley's offers a range of battered, grilled or poached dishes that will transport you back to the Edwardian era.

For caffeine enthusiasts, Coffee at 33 is a must-visit. This independent speciality coffee shop, located in the heart of Brighton, has earned a reputation for serving simply good coffee without any fuss.

If you're a fan of cinnamon buns as well as coffee, Loam is the place to be. Tucked away in the historic Lanes, this small independent coffee shop opened its doors in 2022 and quickly became a hit among coffee and pastry lovers.

The cinnamon buns, meticulously crafted by Francesco, one of the owners of Loam, are known for their deliciously dense and doughy texture and unique biscoff butter, and they often sell out by noon.

Getting there

Reaching Brighton from London is a breeze, with train journeys typically lasting between 58 minutes to just over an hour. For those travelling from Manchester or Birmingham, expect a journey of around four hours and three hours respectively.

While Brighton's reputation as a tourist hotspot is largely due to its iconic piers and beaches, the city offers much more than that, serving as a quintessential British getaway that supports local businesses and traditions.