From the moment I first set foot in Brighton, it was clear I had stumbled upon somewhere special. Nestled near the coast, Brighton offers an unexpected blend of seaside charm and hiking havens. But what truly sets this city apart is its warm-hearted inhabitants and vibrant cultural scene. Brighton vibrates with creativity at every turn as a hub for music, theatre, and street art. Wander through its lanes, and an array of independent cafes, avant-garde coffee shops, and unique pubs greet you.

Despite spending a month there, I left feeling like I had only scratched the surface of what Brighton has to offer.

The Ideal Time to Visit Brighton

The city truly comes alive from June to September. Summer in Brighton is a tapestry of shows, outdoor fun, and bustling beach life.

How Many Days to Dedicate to Brighton?

To truly appreciate what Brighton offers, allot 2-3 days for exploring its charming lanes, exceptional dining, and notable attractions. This timeframe also allows for some leisure beach time. Dedicate an additional day for a hiking adventure to the Seven Sisters, a not-to-be-missed experience that perfectly caps off a Brighton visit.

UK Visa Requirements

With the United Kingdom having left the European Union, travellers planning a Eurotrip followed by a visit to the UK, or vice versa, need to apply for a separate visa.

For Philippine passport holders, here's a guide to prepare you for the UK visa application process:

• Scheduling Your Appointment with VFS Global.

• Documents and Requirements

1. VFS Global Appointment Confirmation

   A printed VFS Global Appointment Confirmation letter confirming your scheduled visit.

2. Valid Passports 

   Present your current passport along with any old passports that contain previous visas.

3. Residence Card

   If applicable, for those residing outside their home country.

4. Visa and Entry History

   Copies of previous visas and entry/exit stamps.

5. Proof of Employment and Income
   • Employment Certificate indicating your position and the duration of your employment.
   • Recent Income Tax Return
   • Other documents demonstrating financial capacity.

6. Bank Statements

   Recent 6-month bank statements

7. Travel Itinerary

   A detailed plan of your intended activities in the UK.

8. Flight Reservations

   Confirmed flight bookings

9. Accommodation Details

   Proof of hotel bookings or other accommodation arrangements.

10. Cover Letter

    A personalised letter explaining the purpose of your visit to the UK.

11. Invitation Letter

    If visiting friends or family, include a letter of invitation from them.

Brighton Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

• Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

  Kick off your Brighton excursion with a sumptuous meal at The Breakfast Club, a charming eatery brimming with a lively retro atmosphere.

• The Royal Pavilion

  Post-breakfast, amble over to the Royal Pavilion. This magnificent palace at the heart of Brighton boasts a 200-year-old royal heritage and offers a glimpse into the city's regal past.

  

• Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

  Just a stone's throw from the Pavilion, immerse yourself in Brighton's rich history and rotating art exhibitions at the museum and gallery.

• Victoria Gardens

  Pause for a moment of repose in the tranquil Victoria Gardens before lunch.

• Lunch at The Ivy in The Lanes or Food for Friends

  In the quaint setting of The Lanes, opt for an elegant lunch at either The Ivy, known for its British classics or Food for Friends, which offers delightful vegetarian cuisine.

Afternoon

• Shopping and Exploring The Lanes

  Your afternoon adventure involves meandering through The Lanes' intricate weave of jewellery stores, designer boutiques, and antiquarians.

  

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  Sunset at Brighton Palace Pier

  As dusk approaches, saunter along the iconic Brighton Pier. Revel in the arcade games, the gentle sea breeze, and perhaps a classic stick of cotton candy while watching the sunset.

  

• Dinner at Regency Restaurant or English's of Brighton

  Choose between Regency Restaurant's seafront charm or English of Brighton's classic seafood dishes to indulge in a quintessential Brighton dining experience.

Day 2

Morning

• Breakfast at The Flour Pot Bakery

  Begin your day with the divine scents of freshly baked bread and pastries, complemented by a robust cup of coffee at The Flour Pot Bakery.

• Brighton Beach

  Next, venture down to Brighton Beach for a serene morning stroll along Hove Beach or take a moment to unwind on the pebbles, with the picturesque scene of vibrant beach huts lining the shore.

  

• Upside Down House

  Catch a glimpse of the whimsical architecture at the Upside Down House en route to your next destination.

  

• British Airways i360 Viewing Tower

  Elevate your morning with a visit to the i360 Viewing Tower, where you can soak in breathtaking views of Brighton and beyond.

• Lunch at The Salt Room

  Nestled by the ocean, The Salt Room offers a scrumptious seafood-and-grill lunch with mesmerising views.

  

Afternoon

• North Laine Exploration

  The bohemian streets of North Laine beckon, with quirky shops, cafes, and street art providing a colourful backdrop for your explorations.

• The Level

  Take a leisurely break at The Level, a vibrant community space that's perfect for people-watching or soaking up the local atmosphere.

  

• Evening Entertainment

  Theatre aficionados can enjoy an evening performance at the Theatre Royal or Brighton Dome.

• Dinner at 64 Degrees

  Conclude the day with the culinary artistry of 64 Degrees, featuring innovative small plates in an intimate setting.

• Regency Tavern

  Finally, savour your last night in Brighton with a pint at the illustrious Regency Tavern before bidding farewell to this enchanting coastal city.

  

Day 3 (Optional):

Seven Sisters Country Park Hike

For those blessed with an additional day in Brighton, a venture outside the city to the breathtaking Seven Sisters Country Park is highly recommended. Treat yourself to a day of natural beauty and invigorating outdoor activity.

Bus:

12X Bus Service operates between Brighton and Eastbourne, conveniently connecting to Seven Sisters. This bus runs every 20 minutes from Monday to Saturday and Every 30 minutes on Sunday. The 13X Bus service might be the quickest route to Seven Sisters on Sundays.

The Seven Sisters, a series of iconic chalk cliffs by the English Channel, offer exceptional hiking trails with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding countryside. There are various routes to choose from depending on your desired difficulty level and time commitment. The hike from Seaford to Eastbourne is particularly popular, showcasing the full glory of the cliffs and the lush valleys between them.

Travel Tips

• Navigating around Brighton is straightforward and efficient, thanks to its robust bus system.

  

  • Bus Travel: For most of your travel within Brighton, the bus is a convenient option. Buses are equipped with contactless payment systems, allowing you to tap your credit card when you board.
  • Mobile App: Download 'Brighton & Hove Buses app' to track bus times and routes. It also generates a QR code that is scanned during boarding.

• Cashless Everywhere: Most establishments, not just buses, in Brighton accept credit cards or other cashless payment methods.

   

Maps