Indulge in seaside strolls, vegan delights, and hidden gems on a weekend in Brighton! Discover the city's vibrant culture and rich history.
There’s something enchanting about Brighton, the kind of coastal city that feels like a perfect mix of quirky charm and laid-back seaside vibes. From the moment I stepped foot on its pebbly beach to the last bite of my vegan Sunday roast before I caught my train back to London, Brighton’s magnetic personality pulled me in.
Whether you’re wandering through The Lanes, indulging in some seriously delicious plant-based food, or just basking in the salty air with a coffee in hand, this city has a little something for everyone. In addition to the fact that there are cute dogs everywhere (seriously—they’re welcome in almost every store and restaurant!), here’s how I spent a weekend in Brighton, soaking up its best bits and savouring every moment.
Exploring Brighton’s History and Charm
Brighton is rich in history and character, making it a perfect destination for anyone who loves to explore a place with a story. Originally a sleepy fishing village, Brighton transformed into a bustling seaside resort in the 18th century when it became a favourite getaway for royalty, including the Prince Regent (later King George IV of England). The construction of the iconic Royal Pavilion, an opulent palace with striking Indian and Chinese architectural influences, marked the city as a playground for the upper class. Today, the Royal Pavilion still stands as a testament to Brighton’s colourful past, offering a glimpse into the extravagant tastes of its former royal residents.
Brighton’s evolution continued throughout the 19th century, solidifying itself as a destination for day-trippers and holiday-goers, particularly from London; after all, it’s an easy 50-minute train ride there from Tower Hill’s National Rail stop! With the advent of the railway, Brighton became even more accessible, earning it the nickname ‘London-by-the-Sea.’ Its mix of Victorian and Georgian architecture still dots the streets, offering a window into its rich past. But the city isn’t stuck in the past—its contemporary street art scene and bustling shops in The Lanes are proof of its ongoing vibrancy.
A Tasty Weekend in Brighton: Vegan Pizza and the Perfect Roast
Personally, I find that food is one of the best ways to explore a city, and Brighton absolutely delivered on this front. This coastal gem has become known for its creative, plant-forward food scene, making it a dream destination for vegetarians and vegans alike. My weekend food journey started with a bang at Al Forno on Friday night right after I arrived; it’s an Italian restaurant serving up one of the absolute best vegan pizzas I’ve ever had. I opted for their spinach and pesto pizza—a white pizza with a pesto base, vegan mozzarella, and a medley of spinach, caramelized onions, vegan feta, and mild roquito peppers. Each bite was a flavour bomb, hitting all the right notes: savoury, tangy, and just the right amount of spice (although, I did cover it in chili oil and chili peppers too, because unlike many of the British, I have a very high tolerance for spiciness).
Come Sunday, I found myself indulging in a quintessential British tradition—a Sunday roast—but with a vegetarian twist. This was found at The Prince George, a beloved pub in the heart of Brighton, that only serves vegetarian dishes. Their 'chicken' seitan roast was a hearty, delicious affair. With crispy roast potatoes, fluffy Yorkshire pudding, and a plateful of seasonal greens, all drenched in rich gravy, it was comfort food at its finest. The roast’s companion—braised red cabbage and creamed leeks—brought a satisfying mix of textures and flavours to the table. Honestly, I’m still dreaming about those creamed leeks and you can bet that I’ll be trying to recreate them at some point this autumn.
Brighton’s food scene surprised and satisfied my craving for delicious food throughout my trip there. From vegan pizza perfection to a plant-based take on the traditional roast, it’s a city that embraces all kinds of dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
Seaside Strolls and People Watching by Palace Pier
No weekend in Brighton is complete without a walk along the Palace Pier, a landmark that embodies British seaside culture. Stretching out into the water, the pier is lined with arcades, food stalls, and amusement rides, making it a nostalgic throwback to classic seaside fun. My friend and I, accompanied by her lively dog, wandered along the seafront, soaking in the ocean breeze and watching families, tourists, and locals enjoy the beach. Unfortunately, because dogs are not allowed on the pier, we were not able to explore inside.
We eventually found a quiet spot on Brighton’s pebbly beach, where we sat down and let the sound of the waves lull us into relaxation. Brighton’s beach, with its unique mix of stones and shells instead of sand, has a charm all its own. People-watching became our afternoon activity, from couples strolling hand-in-hand to brave souls dipping their toes in the chilly water. With the iconic silhouette of the pier beside us and the vast waters of the English Channel ahead, it was the perfect way to slow down and appreciate Brighton’s laid-back atmosphere.
The Lanes: Shopping and Wandering Through Time
Brighton’s Lanes are a must-visit for anyone who loves a good wander (or as they say here, a good ‘mooch’). This network of narrow streets is packed with quirky boutiques, independent shops, and cafés that are almost too charming for their own good. As we meandered through, I couldn’t resist stopping in at many of the stores, each one offering something unique. Vintage clothing, records, artisanal jewellery, stationary, antique books—you name it, The Lanes probably has it.
There’s a certain vibe about The Lanes that feels effortlessly cool, like a place that doesn’t need to try too hard to be trendy because it just is, naturally. The architecture here is quaint and historic, with cobbled streets and tightly packed buildings that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into a different era. Brighton's creativity shines in this part of town, and it’s easy to lose yourself for hours hopping from one shop to the next. I even managed to pick up a few treasures—small mementos to remind me of my time in this delightful seaside city and a few Christmas gifts for my friends and family this year.
Café Culture: Coffee, Pastries, and the Perfect Pause
Brighton’s café culture is alive and well, making it a perfect place for anyone who enjoys slowing down and indulging in a cup of coffee or a sweet treat. After wandering through The Lanes, I made it my mission to stop at a few different cafés to recharge. Whether you prefer an espresso or a delicate pastry, Brighton has you covered.
One café in particular had that perfect, cozy vibe where we could sit and chat (with the dog in tow, of course—dogs are always welcome! While the espresso was not the best for someone who only ever drinks strong Italian coffee, there’s still something magical about sitting in a café in Brighton; it’s as if the city encourages you to take a breath, enjoy the moment, and appreciate the charm around you. Each of the cafés we visited had its own personality, with mismatched furniture, soft lighting, art hanging on the walls that are for sale to interested buyers, and that wonderful smell of fresh coffee hanging in the air. It was the ideal way to take a break from exploring and soak up the city’s easy-going vibe.
Graffiti, Landmarks, and Victorian Relics
Brighton is a city that proudly wears its art on its sleeve—literally. The streets are adorned with graffiti and murals, showcasing the city’s artistic spirit. Walking around with my friend, we stumbled upon various works of street art, each piece adding a unique splash of colour to the urban landscape. Brighton’s street art scene is vibrant and ever-evolving, making the city feel like a living gallery.
In addition to modern art, Brighton also carries echoes of the past around every corner. One memorable moment during my trip was when we spotted a Victorian-era letterbox (or, as we say in Canada, ‘mailbox’)—still standing after all these years, with Queen Victoria’s monogram intact. It’s small details like this that make Brighton such a captivating place. The city’s historical landmarks aren’t grand or imposing, but they quietly remind you that Brighton has seen centuries of change and continues to thrive.
All in All
Brighton is a city that will surprise you, charm you, and leave you wanting more. Its mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and excellent plant-based food make it a destination worth adding to your travel list. Whether you’re into exploring quirky shops, enjoying plant-based cuisine, or simply walking along the seafront with a coffee in hand, even spending just a weekend in Brighton will prove that there’s something there for everyone.
If you’ve been searching for the perfect spot for a getaway, look no further than Brighton’s welcoming spirit, artistic energy, and seaside beauty that are calling your name.
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