15 Fun Things to Do in Brighton in 2025

15 Fun Things to Do in Brighton in 2025

Picture this: you’re strolling along Brighton’s famous pebble beach as the sun peeks over the horizon, casting a golden light on the elegant Victorian buildings. Ready to dive into 15 incredible experiences that truly capture the essence of this vibrant city in 2025? This guide is packed with insider secrets, money-saving tricks, and local favourites to help you explore Brighton’s must-see sights, enjoy family fun, immerse yourself in the arts, connect with nature, savour delicious food, and catch the biggest festivals. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you call Brighton home, you’ll find clear recommendations for everything from breath taking views from the i360 to hidden street art treasures in the quirky lanes.

We at Brighton Up Your Day are all about sharing genuine local insights to inspire you – and maybe even get you signed up for more curated content! Keep reading to uncover it all, from the dizzying heights of the i360 to the colourful backstreets, ensuring your Brighton adventure is absolutely unforgettable.

What Are Brighton’s Iconic Landmarks and Must-See Attractions in 2025?

Brighton’s charm is deeply rooted in its seaside history, its regal architectural wonders, and its modern observation points. These iconic spots offer a fantastic mix of classic Victorian entertainment, a flamboyant royal palace, sweeping views, and unique shopping streets. Getting to know these places will really deepen your appreciation for how Brighton has blossomed into the lively coastal city it today. Whether you’re watching families enjoy the arcade games or admiring the stunning domes, each stop offers something special – from cultural insights at the Pavilion to pure seaside bliss on the pier. Let’s kick things off with the top five landmarks that are essential for any Brighton visit in 2025.

What Makes Brighton Palace Pier a Victorian Seaside Favourite?

Brighton Palace Pier is a true Victorian treasure, serving up classic seaside fun with its beautiful wrought iron details and modern amusements. With arcade games galore, thrilling rides, and tempting seafood stalls, it’s a place that delights visitors of all ages. You can tuck into traditional fish and chips, soak up the dazzling fairground lights, and take in those stunning coastal views.

• Hit the arcade for some good old-fashioned family fun and a dash of nostalgia.
• Experience the thrill of fairground rides with the sea breeze and stunning scenery as your backdrop.
• Indulge in freshly battered seafood and sweet treats from the tempting food stalls.

It’s a perfect stop before you head off to explore the exotic splendour of the Royal Pavilion.

Why Visit the Royal Pavilion for Its Unique Architecture and History?

The Royal Pavilion is an absolutely breath taking palace, originally designed for King George IV. It boasts incredible Indo-Saracenic domes and interiors inspired by Chinese artistry. Step inside its lavish rooms to discover intricate chinoiserie murals, gleaming gilded pavilions, and beautifully landscaped gardens that whisk you back to the extravagant world of 19th-century royalty. Exploring the Pavilion really highlights the fascinating contrast between Brighton’s seaside vibe and its royal extravagance.

Visitors love the seasonal exhibitions, insightful guided tours, and cultural events held within its ornate walls. Audio guides are a great way to really get to grips with George IV’s vision and the building’s meticulous restoration. After you’ve wandered through those silk-draped halls, make your way to the i360 for a spectacular 360-degree perspective of the city.

How Does the British Airways i360 Offer Panoramic Views of Brighton?

The British Airways i360 observation tower takes you soaring 138 metres high in a spacious glass pod, offering uninterrupted, sweeping views of the coastline. This smooth vertical journey provides a breathtaking 360° panorama of Brighton Beach, the iconic Palace Pier, the rolling South Downs, and, on a clear day, you might even spot the Isle of Wight!

• Effortless Ascent – Enjoy a gentle, stable ride as you glide upwards, spotting landmarks below.
• Engaging Commentary – Integrated narration points out key sights and tells you their stories.
• All-Weather Comfort – The enclosed, climate-controlled capsule ensures a pleasant experience no matter the weather.

Whether you catch it at sunrise or as dusk settles, the i360 capsule experience is the perfect way to set the scene before you delve into Brighton’s charming, winding historic districts.

Brighton i360 Viewing Tower: A Futuristic Attraction on Brighton BeachDeveloped by the team responsible for the iconic London Eye, the Brighton i360 Viewing Tower is a futuristic visitor attraction located directly on the beach in Brighton, a South Coast resort town…The Brighton i360 Viewing Tower Project, Unknown Author, 2008

What Can You Explore in Brighton’s Historic Districts: The Lanes and North Laine?

Brighton’s two most famous central areas offer wonderfully contrasting shopping and cultural vibes. The Lanes are a maze of narrow, historic alleyways packed with antique jewellery shops, quirky independent boutiques, and cosy little cafés. North Laine, on the other hand, is a riot of colour, buzzing with vibrant street art, independent record stores, and vintage markets that perfectly capture Brighton’s creative soul.

• Hunt for exquisite handcrafted jewellery and rare finds in the charming Lanes.
• Discover vibrant murals and pop-up galleries in the creative hub of North Laine.
• Treat yourself to delicious local flavours at the unique cafés and bakeries dotted around.

These districts truly embody Brighton’s eclectic spirit and are the perfect starting point before you dive into deeper cultural experiences.

Which Cultural Highlights Await at Brighton’s Eclectic Museums and Galleries?

Beyond the main Museum and Art Gallery, Brighton boasts a collection of smaller venues that celebrate more niche interests. The Regency Town House offers fascinating guided tours of a beautifully restored Georgian home, while the Phoenix Gallery curates cutting-edge contemporary art and film screenings. The University of Brighton galleries are known for showcasing experimental media and exciting student work. These more intimate spaces provide a wonderful opportunity to delve deep into Brighton’s diverse cultural tapestry and its innovative spirit.

What Family-Friendly Adventures Can You Enjoy in Brighton in 2025?

Brighton is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wealth of interactive attractions, whimsical experiences, and gentle amusements that are sure to delight both kids and adults. From fascinating aquariums and mind-bending optical illusion houses to fun-filled mini golf courses, there’s a perfect blend of learning and play for everyone.

Planning a day that keeps everyone happy means combining indoor and outdoor spots with plenty of opportunities for delicious food stops that cater to younger tastes. We’ll explore the top family attractions, other kid-approved spots, and share some top tips for organising a day that’s both educational and incredibly fun.

Why Is SEA LIFE Brighton a Top Choice for Family Visits?

SEA LIFE Brighton holds the incredible distinction of being the world’s oldest operating aquarium, housed within stunning Victorian architecture. Its immersive underwater tunnel transports you into vibrant tropical reef ecosystems, while specially themed zones feature interactive rockpool touch pools and important conservation exhibits. Engaging talks about jellyfish, turtles, and rays offer children a wonderful insight into ocean stewardship. Look out for seasonal events like puppet shows and behind-the-scenes feeding sessions, which add extra layers of fun. Families can also benefit from combined ticket deals with the i360, making for an extended day of exploration.

What Other Kid-Friendly Attractions Are Available, Like the Upside Down House and Mini Golf?

Brighton’s playful side really comes out with attractions that let kids bend reality and test their putting skills.

• The Upside Down House playfully flips floors and ceilings, creating a wonderfully disorienting and fun playground.
• Challenge yourselves at one of the many indoor mini golf courses, complete with glow-in-the-dark obstacles and fun seaside themes.
• For a gentle thrill, the Brighton Zip offers a zip-wire experience over the beachfront, perfect for adventurers aged seven and up.

These spots are brilliant for sparking imagination and encouraging a bit of friendly competition, before you start planning a perfectly cohesive day out.

How Can Families Plan a Fun and Educational Day Out in Brighton?

The key to a successful family day out is balancing exciting attractions with relaxed meal breaks and downtime. Start your morning with an engaging visit to the aquarium, followed by a refreshing stroll along Brighton Beach and a tasty lunch at a family-friendly café. In the afternoon, keep the kids entertained with visits to interactive houses or a round of mini golf, and then wind down with some relaxed playtime at Pavilion Gardens. Booking combined tickets in advance and checking event schedules will ensure smooth transitions between activities and help you make the most of your exploration time.

How Does Brighton’s Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene Enrich Your 2025 Visit?

Brighton’s reputation as the UK’s creative hub is well-earned, thanks to its buzzing live music venues, diverse galleries, and thriving street art scene. From theatres that have stood for a century to spontaneous pop-up installations, the city is alive with performances, exhibitions, and bursts of creativity. Engaging with local artists and venues adds fascinating layers of cultural understanding to your seaside escape. Here, we’ll highlight the major performance spaces and the eclectic museum offerings that truly define Brighton’s artistic landscape.

What Events and Exhibitions Can You Find at Brighton Dome and Komedia?

Brighton Dome and Komedia are the go-to spots for an incredible range of music, theatre, and comedy that caters to all sorts of tastes. The Dome’s historic concert hall hosts everything from classical recitals and contemporary gigs to spectacular festival showcases during Brighton Festival. Komedia, with its more intimate club setting, is famous for its stand-up comedy nights, dazzling cabaret shows, and smooth jazz sessions. Both venues are brilliant platforms for showcasing emerging local talent alongside established international artists. Make sure to check their seasonal listings and book tickets in advance to secure your spot for headline shows that will truly enrich your cultural itinerary.

What Are the Best Outdoor and Nature Activities Near Brighton in 2025?

Brighton’s stunning coastal location and the beautiful countryside just beyond offer a fantastic variety of outdoor experiences, from simply relaxing on the pebble beach to invigorating hillside hikes. The fresh sea air and the gentle rolling landscapes of the South Downs are perfect for rejuvenating excursions, whether you’re seeking activity or tranquility. Combining beach time with nature trails and parkland walks is a brilliant way to enjoy a well-rounded day outdoors. The following sections will guide you through enjoying the seaside.

How Can You Enjoy Brighton Beach and Its Unique Pebble Shoreline?

Brighton Beach offers a vibrant array of paid activities to enhance your seaside experience. Rent a comfortable deckchair to soak up the sun, or get active with paddleboard and kayak rentals to explore the English Channel. You can also join invigorating open-air yoga classes right on the shore. As the day draws to a close, the charming boardwalk cafés and ice-cream stalls are the perfect spots to enjoy a gentle end to your day by the sea, offering delicious treats and refreshing drinks.

Which Food and Drink Experiences Should You Try in Brighton in 2025?

Brighton’s food scene is as progressive and exciting as the city itself, offering everything from classic fish and chips to vibrant vegan cafés and traditional pubs steeped in history. You’ll find delicious seafood shacks, local breweries crafting unique ales, and artisan bakeries serving up delightful treats, all catering to a wide range of tastes. Sampling both traditional dishes and innovative plant-based creations is a fantastic way to get to know Brighton’s gastronomic identity. Next, we’ll explore the best spots for that perfect battered fish, discover pioneering vegan eateries, and highlight welcoming cafés and pubs that truly capture the city’s unique atmosphere.

Where Can You Find the Best Traditional Fish and Chips in Brighton?

You’ll find fantastic fish and chip shops dotted all along the seafront and throughout the city, serving up sustainably sourced cod or haddock encased in perfectly crisp batter, alongside generous portions of chunky chips. For more information on Brighton’s most iconic dish, be sure to check out our blog on The 7 Best Places for Fish and Chips In Brighton!

• Regency Restaurant offers a classic Brighton experience right on the seafront, known for its fresh seafood and bustling atmosphere.
• Bankers Fish & Chips is a local favourite, praised for its consistently high quality and generous portions, just a short walk from the Lanes.
• Bardsley’s of Baker Street, a beloved family-run institution for decades, provides an authentic, traditional chippy experience slightly off the main tourist path.

These beloved venues combine the invigorating coastal breeze with hearty, satisfying flavours for a truly authentic Brighton dining moment.

How Is Brighton’s Vegan Scene Shaping Its Culinary Landscape?

Brighton has firmly established itself as a vegan paradise, with plant-based eateries consistently leading the way in flavour innovation and creative presentation. You can find restaurants serving incredible jackfruit “pulled pork” sandwiches, artisanal cashew-based cheeses, and bakeries committed to zero-waste practices. Café menus are brimming with options like creamy oat-milk lattes brewed alongside tempting gluten-free pastries. Keep an eye out for seasonal pop-ups and market stalls offering exciting vegan street food. This dynamic scene perfectly reflects Brighton’s forward-thinking values and sets the stage for some cosy pub visits later on.

What Are the Top Cafes and Pubs for a True Brighton Atmosphere?

Brighton’s cafés and pubs beautifully blend historic charm with contemporary style, offering a fantastic selection of local ales, expertly brewed craft coffee, and delicious casual bites.

• Seaside Coffee Roasters is passionate about sourcing beans from ethical farms and roasting them right on-site for the freshest flavour.
• Discover the Characterful Pub tucked away in The Lanes, known for its fun board game nights and excellent real-ale selection.
• Indulge at the Artisan Bakery Café, where incredible sourdough breads are paired with locally churned butter for a simple yet delicious treat.

Whether you’re looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a relaxing evening pint, these spots are guaranteed to deliver a warm and convivial local experience.

What Major Events and Festivals Are Happening in Brighton in 2025?

Brighton’s calendar is absolutely packed with world-class festivals and vibrant community celebrations running from spring right through to autumn. These annual events attract global audiences, provide a platform for local talent, and celebrate the city’s incredible diversity. Planning your visit to coincide with these festival dates will undoubtedly enhance your Brighton experience with spectacular parades, captivating performances, and dazzling cultural showcases. Here, we’ll highlight the renowned Brighton Festival, the unforgettable Pride celebrations, and a must-see music weekend, before we wrap up our guide.

When and What to Expect at Brighton Festival 2025?

Brighton Festival takes over the city every May, transforming theatres, galleries, and streets into vibrant stages for music, dance, visual arts, and spoken word performances. Highlights often include incredible international orchestras performing at Brighton Dome, captivating outdoor installations popping up in Pavilion Gardens, and innovative theatre productions in unique, repurposed venues. Community workshops offer visitors a chance to get hands-on and participate in creative projects. Festival trails also connect the city’s landmarks through engaging thematic routes designed to both inform and entertain.

How Does Brighton Pride Celebrate Diversity in August 2025?

Brighton Pride returns in early August, marking one of Europe’s most significant and joyous LGBTQ+ celebrations. The spectacular parade winds its way along the seafront, featuring dazzling floats, diverse community groups, and incredible headline musical acts. The dedicated Pride Village buzzes with live DJs, unforgettable drag performances, and a fantastic array of food stalls celebrating queer culture. You’ll also find informative educational forums and wellness tents offering safe spaces and valuable resources. This incredibly inclusive festival truly underscores Brighton’s unwavering commitment to equality and its wonderfully festive spirit.

What Other Notable Events Like Mod Weekender Are Scheduled for 2025?

The Mod Weekender in August is a fantastic celebration that revives the iconic 1960s fashion, music, and scooter culture with live bands, energetic dance nights, and stylish rally rides.

• The Art Deco Weekend celebrates the glamour of the 1920s and 30s with period-themed events taking place along Regency Square.
• Experience the magic of the Victorian Christmas Fair in December, bringing traditional stalls and joyful carol singers to the seafront.
• Don’t miss the spectacular Air Show in September, which dazzles crowds with thrilling aerial acrobatics over Brighton Beach.

These signature events ensure that your Brighton adventure can be exciting and memorable well beyond the peak summer months.

Your Brighton 2025 Adventure at a Glance

To help you plan your unforgettable trip, here’s a summary of 15 top activities and experiences Brighton has to offer in 2025:

Category	Activity	What to Expect
Iconic Landmarks	1. Brighton Palace Pier	Classic Victorian fun, arcade games, thrilling rides, seafood.
	2. Royal Pavilion	Unique Indo-Saracenic architecture, lavish interiors, royal history.
	3. British Airways i360	Panoramic 360° views of the city, coastline, and South Downs.
	4. The Lanes & North Laine	Explore historic alleyways, independent boutiques, street art, and cafes.
Family Fun	5. SEA LIFE Brighton	World’s oldest aquarium, immersive tunnels, interactive exhibits.
	6. Upside Down House	Playful optical illusions for fun photos and a disorienting experience.
	7. Brighton Zip	A thrilling zip-wire experience over the beachfront.
Arts & Culture	8. Brighton Dome & Komedia	Catch live music, theatre, comedy, and festival performances.
	9. Local Museums & Galleries	Discover niche interests, contemporary art, and Georgian history.
Outdoor & Nature	10. Brighton Beach	Relax on the pebble shore, rent paddleboards, or join open-air yoga.
	11. South Downs Exploration	Enjoy invigorating hikes and tranquil walks in the nearby national park.
Food & Drink	12. Traditional Fish & Chips	Savour sustainably sourced fish and chips with classic seaside views.
	13. Vegan Culinary Scene	Explore innovative plant-based eateries, bakeries, and market stalls.
	14. Cafes & Pubs	Experience local charm with craft coffee, real ales, and casual bites.
Events & Festivals	15. Brighton Festival & Pride	Immerse yourself in world-class arts (May) or joyous LGBTQ+ celebrations (Aug).

Brighton’s incredible blend of historic landmarks, family fun, cultural hotspots, outdoor escapes, culinary delights, and major festivals guarantees that every visit in 2025 will be brimming with opportunities for discovery. Whether you’re seeking breath-taking panoramic views, a taste of local creativity, or simply some relaxing seaside moments, these 15 activities provide the perfect itinerary for both first-time visitors and seasoned locals. If you’re looking for things to do in Brighton but don’t want to break the bank, why not check out our blog on Free Things to do in Brighton: Activities for All Ages?