Celebrating the Year of the Coast in Brighton & Hove

13th March 2023

Celebrate the year of the coast in Brighton and Hove - there's no better time to get out and explore all that this coastline has to offer. Whether you walk, run, swim or just enjoy all our wonderful seafront shops, a trip to Brighton beach is guaranteed to raise your spirits. With breath-taking scenery and easy access, Brighton’s coastal path is the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs and take time to let the sea clear your mind.

Being by the sea holds numerous benefits. Did you know for example that alongside green relaxation (The type you get when you are out and about in the countryside) there is also blue relaxation? Studies have shown the long-term benefits of being near the sea which can include lower blood pressure, strengthened immune system, and even give you “blue mind” – a meditative state that releases dopamine, the happy hormone, perhaps that’s the reason why Brightonians are so chilled?

Do not let needing to catch an early train home stop your fun, there are tons of accommodation options that are a stone’s throw from the beach, giving you more time to explore and make memories. Plus, back to base needn’t be basic, from quirky guest houses to glorious luxurious hotels with sea views, Brighton has something for every budget and visitor. Plan ahead and book your accommodation now: www.visitbrighton.com

Brighton & Hove sits within the Living Coast, a stretch of land and sea with a spirited city at its heart. Bordered by two rivers, its green chalk hills (the ‘Downs’) roll down to river estuaries, white cliffs, shingle beaches and chalky offshore reefs, sheltering rare and remarkable natural habitats. The Living Coast is a UNESCO World Biosphere Region, a region rich in cultural and natural heritage.

We are famous for being a city-by-the-sea and so it is no surprise that sea swimming has played a pivotal part in the destination’s popularity as a holiday hotspot. In the 18th Century Dr Richard Russell helped to put Brighton on the map when he proclaimed the health benefits of sea water were superior to those provided by inland spas. His message lives on, as today millions of visitors come to Brighton every year, many of whom take to the waters. If you are tempted to swim in the sea, then please plan ahead by checking the Tide Timetables and take note of the sea safety tips as well. Not feeling up to sea swimming just yet? Brighton will welcome the Sea Lanes in Spring of 2023, a new swimming centre that boasts a 50m heated pool, so you can practice your breast stroke whilst looking out to sea, the next best thing.

The seafront is alive and buzzing with activity, from strolling families exploring the beach, to those looking to learn how to paddleboard, there is always something happening. If you are new to watersports then Lagoon Watersports in Hove Lagoon is the ideal spot to learn as sessions take place in the safe, sheltered waters of the lagoon before moving on to the big waves of the sea.

Brighton is known for its pebbled beaches, however, there is one spot of sand along the beachfront. Head east from Brighton Palace Pier to the Yellowave Beach Sports centre which is open all year round and if a sport can be played on the beach then it can be played at Yellowave! From the classic volleyball to beach tennis and ultimate frisbee, there are plenty of reasons to get the sand in your toes. Yellowave also has its own bar and café for spectator or post-sports refreshment. If you don’t fancy walking there take a ride on the Volk’s Electric Railway the world’s oldest working electric railway in the world. Alternatively Brighton & Hove buses now have a £2 flat fare for adults and child fares are only 50p, perfect for exploring.

For those who are looking for an extra thrill, the Brighton i360 offers a unique view of the city’s seascape. Walking around the top of the i360 pod, you will get to see the landscape from 138 metres high, this is not one for the faint hearted but worth it for the views. If you are lucky enough to visit in winter you may also catch the stunning display of starling murmurations as they swoop and morph shapes between the Piers, one of the best events in our mind and what is more it is free!

Rainy Day Ideas in Brighton & Hove

We all know the British weather can be unpredictable, and whilst there is nothing more invigorating than a stormy seaside walk, if rain stops outdoors play, here are some indoor suggestions that you can still explore:

Fishing Museum brings Brighton’s maritime heritage to life, set in the fisherman’s arches on the seafront this is the perfect spot to learn about our heritage.

Less than an hour’s walk or a ten minute bus journey from Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton Marina is a self-contained food, shopping and entertainment haven set against a backdrop of yachts bobbing up and down on the big, blue sea.

Brighton Palace Pier  No trip to Brighton is complete without a trip to Brighton Palace Pier, the 1722ft Pier houses great restaurants and bars, serving traditional fish n’ chips. Don’t miss the arcade games and rides to finish off your day there.

Brighton Photography Explore some beautiful images of Brighton & Hove seafront at Brighton photography. Located in the West Pier Arches the gallery is a must see.

The Upside Down House A unique and fun attraction not only for the kids but adults also! A great way to spend good family time and have a great upside-down experience.

Rampion Visitors Centre Discover, learn and explore at this hands-on exhibition, expect interactive displays, games and videos, as well as a 360° virtual reality (VR) experience that will take you out to the wind farm itself!

Brighton & Hove’s seafront is buzzing with opportunity, just waiting to be explored.