Darren Ruffles, Brighton TIC recommends…
Brighton, one of Britain's liveliest cities, has a bohemian, artistic and eccentric atmosphere that can't be found anywhere else in the UK. Combining the modern with the traditional, Brighton’s heritage is rooted in the Regency era and is brought up to date with a unique cultural appeals.
Stay at Brighton’s only five-star hotel, the De Vere Grand or the elegant, classy boutique Hotel Una. Both are great bases for enjoying a shopaholic’s dream – exploring The Lanes, Brighton's intricate maze of twisting alleyways with antiques, jewellery, interior design and famous labels as well as tempting chocolate delights. Or visits Churchill Square for 85 big name stores including H&M, Habitat and Virgin Megastore.
Visit the Royal Pavilion, the spectacular seaside palace of the Prince Regent, George IV, Brighton Pier for its huge choice of bars, rides and traditional fish ‘n’ chips, the state-of-the-art Museum & Art Gallery. Get around on Europe’s first fleet of motorized rickshaws, TucTuc’s – a fun and environmentally friendly way to get around. After all this, rest your head in an alpine cabin or space capsule at the unique Town House or Colson House where each room is themed around a movie icon.
Finally, what would Brighton be without the beach? Base yourself at Drakes, a perfect blend of Regency style and contemporary luxury right on the seafront. Play beach sports on the only bit sandy Brighton beach, the Nivea Sun Yellowave or explore the Artist Quarter underneath the arches. Jump aboard Volks Railway – the first public electric railway – for a ride from the Pier to Black Rock and back again.
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