Brighton

There are few seaside resorts in England that have retained their shine as long as Brighton has. A pebble's throw from London, this coastal town remains one of the nation's favourite places to visit or live in. Fine-dining establishments wrestle each other for space here, but you can still find plenty of less expensive and more relaxed places to dine. With so many great things to do in Brighton, you're going to have plenty of excuses to stop for a bite.

Coffee shop fiend? Into your vintage? Got the kids in tow? Whatever your priorities, you’ll be amply satisfied in Brighton. Sometimes known as London by the sea, this beautiful seaside town may feel slightly kitsch in parts, especially down the harbourfront, but it’s also home to all manner of excellent independent boutiques, a wide array of fantastic restaurants and a LGBTQ+ party scene that’s famous the world over. Not to mention a whole load of photo-worthy architecture harking back to the city’s regal heyday. So what are you waiting for? From first-rate museums and some frankly magnificent architecture to a handful of more offbeat sights and attractions, here’s our pick of the best things to do in Brighton right now. Done something on this list and loved it? Share it with the hashtag #TimeOutDoList and tag @TimeOutEverywhere. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world.

On those rare occasions when both school and the sun are out, there’s nowhere better to head than Brighton beach. The shingle shoreline is fringed with family-friendly things to do, from the wallet-busting coasters and carousels at Brighton Pier, to the free parks, playgrounds and paddling pools along the seafront. Step away from the beach and you’ve got indie shops and restaurants in The Lanes, and big open spaces like The Level for kids to run wild in. And when the weather’s not playing ball, the seaside city lines up a long list of keep-them-dry activities. As far as family days out go, Brighton rocks! RECOMMENDED: The best family day trips near London

Fun-seekers, sun-seekers, nature-lovers and bargain-hunters have been flocking to Brighton for decades. The town offers sea air and the chance to party, and with a growing and sophisticated food scene it has more to offer than ever with heaps of hotel options: from quirky and racy to stylish and stately. If you’re ready to enjoy the best Brighton has to offer, such as shopping in the Lanes, North Laine and the centre of town, then grabbing great food and drink in Kemptown and Hove, before finishing off a top weekend at a banging club or stylish bar, you’ll want to do it at your leisure with an overnight stay, rather than a day trip. Check out – and check in – to one of the best hotels in Brighton...