Brighton, often referred to as the “City of Festivals,” is a vibrant seaside town on the south coast of England. Known for its gay-friendly atmosphere, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Brighton Pier and Royal Pavilion, this city offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Keep reading to discover the best areas to stay in Brighton and make the most of your visit.
Accommodation Options in Brighton, UK
Brighton’s history dates back to the 18th century when it became a popular seaside resort. Today, it is a bustling city with a variety of attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. The tourism industry here is well-developed, offering everything from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly accommodations, ensuring every traveler finds a suitable place to stay.
Beyond its iconic landmarks, Brighton boasts numerous attractions that captivate tourists. Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, which offer a serene escape within the city. Enjoy the thrill of climbing the Brighton Pier for panoramic views. Visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery to delve into the city’s rich cultural heritage. And don’t miss the vibrant North Laine area, known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and street art.
The city’s atmosphere uniquely blends business and leisure with bustling commercial districts and vibrant cultural scenes. Whether in Brighton for business, nightlife, or family fun, you will find neighborhoods that cater to your interests and offer easy access to the city’s amenities.
Ready to plan your trip? Continue reading to discover the best areas to stay in Brighton, tailored to meet your specific travel needs and preferences.
If you don’t have the time to read the full guide, here’s a quick summary of our best areas to stay in Brighton. Keep on reading to find out more information about each of these districts.
- Best location for sightseeing: Brighton City Centre
- Best area for LGBT nightlife: Kemptown
- Best location for families: Seafront
What’s the best area to stay in Brighton?
The best area to stay in Brighton, England, is the Seafront. Here, you’ll find a dynamic mix of shops, cafes, restaurants, and attractions all within walking distance. This lively area offers something for everyone, from the iconic Brighton Pier to the historic Lanes, making it the perfect choice for a convenient and exciting stay. With stunning sea views and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s truly an ideal destination.
Find available accommodation on the Brighton Seafront.
Best Hotels on the Brighton Waterfront
- Best 5-star hotel: The Grand Brighton
- Best 4-star hotel: Drakes Hotel
- Best 3-star hotel: Queens Hotel & Spa
- Best budget hotel: The Beach Hotel
- Best Airbnb: Sealanes 1
The Best Districts to Stay in Brighton and Hove
While we recommend Waterfront as the best location for tourists visiting Brighton, this area is not the only option around. These are some recommended areas to stay in Brighton:
- Brighton City Centre is a lively hub with shops, cafes, restaurants, and attractions all within walking distance. This area provides a bustling atmosphere that’s perfect for exploring the heart of the city.
- Kemptown is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, unique shops, and quirky cafes. It’s a lively neighborhood with a distinct character and welcoming vibe.
- Seafront offers stunning sea views, with easy access to the beach, pier, and various entertainment options. It’s an ideal location for those who want to enjoy Brighton’s coastal charm.
- Hove is a quieter, upscale area with beautiful Regency architecture, cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for those seeking a more tranquil stay.
- The Marina is a modern area with waterfront dining, shopping, and entertainment options. It offers a contemporary experience with plenty of amenities.
- North Laine is a bohemian district with independent shops, street art, cafes, and a creative vibe. It’s a great spot for those who appreciate a more eclectic and artistic environment.
The Best Areas to Stay in Brighton: Neighborhood Guide
1. Brighton Seafront
The best area to stay in Brighton for the beach
Brighton’s Seafront features breathtaking sea views and convenient access to the beach, pier, and various entertainment options.
The Brighton seafront is popular for its stunning sea views and easy access to the beach and pier. Located along the coastline, it stretches from the Marina in the east to Hove in the west.
This area is great for those who want to enjoy Brighton’s coastal charm. It is known for its lively atmosphere and many activities for all ages. You can walk along the 4.5 km (2.8 mi) promenade, visit the iconic Brighton Pier, or relax at the beach. The British Airways i360, a 162-meter (531 ft) observation tower, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
Brighton Palace Pier, opened in 1899, is a historic pleasure pier with fairground rides, arcades, and restaurants. It’s a popular entertainment venue and a significant landmark in Brighton. The pier features attractions like the Turbo Coaster and Crazy Mouse spinning roller coaster and classic rides such as dodgems (bumper cars) and carousels. Dining options include traditional British seaside fare like fish and chips, ice cream sundaes, and more. The pier also hosts regular events, making it a lively spot all year round.
The Lanes, located just a short walk from the Seafront, is a maze of narrow, twisting alleyways filled with independent shops, antique stores, and charming cafes. This historic area is perfect for exploring unique boutiques and relaxing walking through distinctive streets.
The Seafront also has many dining options, from casual beachside cafes to fine dining restaurants with ocean views. Popular spots include Riddle & Finns, known for its seafood, and The Salt Room, offering contemporary British cuisine. The area has several bars and pubs, making it a great place for nightlife.
The Seafront is well-connected by public transportation. Bus routes 12, 14, and 27 run along the coast, providing easy access to other parts of Brighton and Hove. Additionally, the Brighton train station is a 1.2 km (0.75 mi) walk away, offering direct connections to London and other nearby cities. The Volks Railway, the oldest operating electric railway in the world, runs along the eastern part of the Seafront, connecting the Aquarium station to Black Rock. Cycling is also popular along the flat promenade, with several bike rental points available.
There are many places to stay in the Seafront area, from luxurious beachfront hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. You can find options that fit different budgets and preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Best Hotels on Brighton’s Seafront
The Grand Brighton
With its sumptuous Renaissance style, The Grand Brighton has a magnificent location on Brighton’s seafront and is just a 5-minute walk from Brighton Pier.
Drakes Hotel
Located on the seafront overlooking the Brighton Pier, Drakes is a 20-bedroom boutique hotel in a pair of Regency townhouses in the heart of Brighton.
Queens Hotel & Spa
On the seafront in the heart of Brighton’s Lanes, this friendly hotel is well-located for nightlife, shopping, restaurants, and the beach.
The Beach Hotel
Built in the 1820s, the historic Grade II-listed Beach Hotel is in a great location in the center of Brighton. It offers a popular restaurant and traditional rooms, steps away from the beach.
Sealanes 1
Sealanes 1 offers accommodations in Brighton & Hove, a 3-minute walk from The Brighton Centre and i360 Observation Tower. This beachfront property offers access to free Wifi.
2. Kemptown
The best location in Brighton for LGBTQ+ nightlife
Kemptown stands out with its lively LGBTQ+ scene, distinctive shops, and quirky cafes.
Kemptown is known for its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, making it one of Brighton’s most colorful neighborhoods. Located to the east of the city center, Kemptown stretches from the Royal Pavilion down to the seafront.
This area is famous for its strong LGBTQ+ community and hosts the annual Brighton Pride festival, one of the largest and most popular Pride events in the UK. The neighborhood is filled with unique shops, quirky cafes, and various bars and clubs that appeal to different tastes.
St. James’s Street, the main thoroughfare of Kemptown, is lined with an eclectic mix of independent boutiques, vintage stores, and cafes. The Kemptown Carnival, held every summer, features live music, parades, and street performances.
Kemptown is also home to the Brighton Palace Pier, where you can enjoy classic seaside amusements and beautiful sea views. The area has a relaxed and bohemian vibe, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more alternative experience in Brighton.
In terms of dining, Kemptown offers a wide range of options, from traditional pubs to international cuisine. Popular spots include The Ginger Dog, known for its British pub fare, and Muang Thai, offering authentic Thai dishes.
Kemptown is well-connected by public transportation, with several bus routes passing through the area, making it easy to reach other parts of Brighton. The Brighton train station is also a short bus ride away, providing direct connections to London and other nearby cities.
Places to stay in Kemptown range from charming guesthouses to boutique hotels, offering a cozy and welcoming experience for visitors. This neighborhood has plenty to offer for those looking to immerse themselves in the local LGBTQ+ scene, explore quirky shops, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Best Hotels in Kemptown, Brighton
Red Brighton Blue
Located in Brighton & Hove, within an 8-minute walk of Brighton Pier, Red Brighton Blue offers accommodations with a terrace. Popular points of interest nearby include Brighton Dome and Komedia.
Legends Hotel
This property is 1 minute walk from the beach. The stylish LGBTQ+ Legends Hotel is on Brighton’s busy seafront, in the heart of Kemptown. It features the Legends Bar & Nightclub and rooms with sea views and free Wi-Fi throughout.
Hotel Nineteen
Hotel Nineteen offers 3-star accommodations in the Kemptown district of Brighton and Hove. It is close to several well-known attractions, a 6-minute walk from Brighton Dome, and an 11-minute walk from The Brighton Centre. The property is allergy-free throughout.
Snooze
A 4-minute walk from Brighton seafront, the award-winning Snooze is a funky Kemptown guest house filled with colorful, quirky design and inspired 20th-century styling.
3. Brighton City Centre
Well-connected area to find accommodation in Brighton
Brighton City Centre is bustling with shops, cafes, restaurants, and many attractions, making it a great place to explore the coastal city.
Brighton City Centre is the heart of the city, bustling with activity and offering a mix of culture, shopping, and entertainment. It extends from the Brighton Station area down to the seafront and encompasses many of Brighton’s key landmarks and attractions.
The city centre is home to the stunning Royal Pavilion, a former royal residence with distinctive Indo-Saracenic architecture. Nearby, the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery offers a rich collection of art, history, and design exhibits. The Theatre Royal Brighton, one of the oldest theatres in the country, hosts a variety of performances from plays and musicals to comedy shows.
The city centre features the famous North Laine and The Lanes shopping districts. North Laine is known for its bohemian vibe, with over 400 independent shops, cafes, and studios. The Lanes, a series of narrow, winding streets, are lined with antique shops, jewelry stores, and unique boutiques.
There is no shortage of dining options in Brighton City Centre. From trendy cafes and international cuisine to traditional British pubs, the area has something to suit every palate. Popular spots include The Ivy in the Lanes, which offers an elegant dining experience, and Terre à Terre, a renowned vegetarian restaurant. The nightlife scene is vibrant, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.
Brighton City Centre hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Brighton Festival, one of England’s largest arts festivals, and the Brighton Fringe, which showcases a diverse range of performances. The Brighton Dome, a historic arts venue, is a central hub for many of these events.
The city centre is well-connected by public transportation. Brighton Station provides direct train services to London and other nearby cities. Several bus routes run through the area, making it easy to navigate around the city. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with many bike lanes and rental points available.
Best Hotels in Central Brighton
Hotel Du Vin & Bistro Brighton
Hotel du Vin Brighton is a 5-minute walk from the pier. Rare cigars can be purchased, and guests can sample wines from around the world in the Laroche tasting room.
ibis Brighton City Centre – Station
Located in the heart of Brighton’s vibrant city center by the railway station, ibis Brighton City Center features modern, soundproofed rooms, a bar, and a restaurant.
The Queensbury Hotel
This fully refurbished Grade II Listed hotel is opposite Brighton’s West Pier. It offers free WiFi and seafront accommodations, 15 minutes’ walk from Brighton Rail Station.
The Market Inn
The Market Inn in Brighton & Hove is close to Hove Beach and The Royal Pavilion, offering a terrace and a bar. Among this property’s facilities are room service, daily room service, and free Wifi throughout the property.
4. Hove
An upscale & quiet area to stay
Hove provides a quieter, upscale environment with beautiful Regency architecture and charming cafes.
Hove is a more tranquil and residential part of the city compared to the bustling atmosphere of Brighton. It’s located to the west of Brighton and offers a more relaxed pace of life while still providing easy access to the vibrant city center.
Known for its beautiful and well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture, Hove’s wide, tree-lined avenues and elegant houses give the area a distinguished and sophisticated feel. The seafront is a highlight, with a less crowded beach perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. The Hove Lawns, a large green space along the seafront, is ideal for picnics, sports, and leisurely walks. The colorful beach huts along the promenade add to the charm of the area.
The main shopping street in Hove is George Street, offering a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. The area also boasts several independent boutiques and artisan stores, making it a great place for unique finds. Dining options are diverse, from cozy cafes to fine dining establishments. Popular spots include The Ginger Pig, known for its high-quality British cuisine, and Etch., a contemporary restaurant offering innovative tasting menus.
Hove is home to several cultural attractions. The Hove Museum and Art Gallery features a diverse collection of art and historical artifacts. The Old Market, a historic venue, hosts a range of performances, including live music, theatre, and comedy shows.
The area is well-connected by public transportation, with several bus routes running through the area and Hove Station providing direct train services to London and other nearby cities. The area is also bike-friendly, with many cycle paths and rental points available.
Best Hotels in Hove
The Ginger Pig
Set in Hove, The Ginger Pig offers facilities like a bar and on-site dining. Free WiFi is available.
Lansdowne House Hove
The recently renovated Lansdowne House Hove is a bed and breakfast in a historic building dating back to the 19th century. It features accommodations with a garden and free Wi-Fi. The Brighton Centre is a 17-minute walk away.
5. Brighton Marina
Brighton’s most modern area
Brighton Marina offers dining, shopping, and entertainment options
Brighton Marina, located east of the city center, is a bustling waterfront area that offers a variety of activities and amenities. With over 1,500 berths for boats and yachts, it is one of the largest marinas in the UK. It is an excellent place for those interested in water sports, with sailing, kayaking, and jet skiing opportunities. Several boat tour operators offer trips along the coast.
The Marina is home to a wide range of restaurants and cafes offering diverse cuisine options. Popular spots include The Watershed, known for its seafood dishes, and Casa Brasil, which offers Brazilian barbecue. The area has several bars and pubs, making it a great place to enjoy a drink with sea views.
For shopping enthusiasts, Brighton Marina has a variety of shops, including fashion boutiques, homeware stores, and convenience shops. The Asda Superstore provides a convenient place for grocery shopping.
Brighton Marina also offers entertainment options such as a multi-screen Cineworld cinema, a bowling alley at Hollywood Bowl, and a casino at Grosvenor Casino. There are also several health and fitness facilities, including a gym and a swimming pool.
Best Hotels near Brighton Marina
Malmaison Brighton
Malmaison Brighton looks out over Brighton Marina to the sea. It has free parking, a bar, a restaurant, modern rooms with monsoon showers, and outdoor terraces looking out over the water.
Unique Apartment with Brighton Marina Views
Unique, loft-style apartment with fantastic Brighton Marina views offers accommodations in Brighton & Hove, half a mile from Brighton Marina. Guests staying at this apartment have access to a balcony. Outdoor seating is also available at the apartment.
6. North Laine
Bohemian area to stay in Brighton
North Laine boasts a bohemian flair with its independent shops, street art, and cafes, offering a unique and creative vibe.
North Laine is one of Brighton’s most vibrant and bohemian neighborhoods, filled with independent shops, colorful street art, and a lively atmosphere. With over 400 independent businesses, it’s perfect for finding unique items and supporting local artisans. The area also has markets like the Brighton Flea Market and the Open Market.
Known for its creativity, North Laine has art galleries, studios, and performance spaces. The Komedia hosts comedy shows, live music, and theatre performances. The area is also famous for its street art, with colorful murals adorning many buildings.
Dining options in North Laine are diverse, ranging from cozy cafes to international cuisine. Popular spots include Bill’s Brighton for brunch and The Chilli Pickle for modern Indian dishes. The nightlife is also lively, with bars, pubs, and live music venues like the Prince Albert and The Mesmerist.
Easily accessible by public transportation, North Laine is a short walk from Brighton Station. Accommodation options include boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing a unique stay for visitors who enjoy a creative and lively atmosphere.
Best Hotels in North Laine, Brighton & Hove
Malmaison Brighton
Malmaison Brighton looks out over Brighton Marina to the sea. It has free parking, a bar, a restaurant, modern rooms with monsoon showers, and outdoor terraces looking out over the water.
Typical English Terraced House
Typical English Terraced House is a recently renovated vacation home in the center of Brighton and Hove. This accommodation offers a terrace with city views. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and Brighton Train Station is a 2-minute walk away.
How to Find Great Accommodation in Brighton: A Personal Take
Finding accommodation in Brighton can be exciting. On my recent trip, I decided to stay in Kemptown because of its lively and inclusive atmosphere. I chose Snooze Guest House, a quirky and welcoming place in the heart of the gay area. The guest house had a fun, retro vibe with unique decor in each room. The staff was friendly, and the location was perfect for exploring the local bars, cafes, and shops.
Next time, I might consider staying in North Laine for its bohemian vibe and unique shops. Brighton has many areas to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay.
Accommodation in Brighton & Hove: Useful Information
Finding accommodation in Brighton & Hove can be a bit of an adventure due to the city’s popularity and variety of options. Often jokingly called “London-by-the-Sea,” Brighton & Hove is a popular destination for Londoners and is sometimes visited as a day trip. However, we recommend staying longer to fully experience what this vibrant city has to offer. Planning ahead and booking early, especially during the summer and around Pride, can definitely help you secure better deals.
Brighton & Hove offers a mix of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique atmosphere. Naturally, you’ll want to stay close to the attractions that interest you the most.
The Brighton City Centre is convenient as it places you near main attractions like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Palace Pier, and The Lanes. However, expect to pay a premium for the central location. Hove offers a more relaxed, residential vibe compared to Brighton’s bustling center. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a quieter stay while still being close to the beach. Kemptown is known for its lively and inclusive atmosphere, especially popular with the LGBTQ+ community. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to experience Brighton’s vibrant gay nightlife. For a waterfront experience, Brighton Marina is a fantastic option. It’s a bit farther from the city center but offers beautiful views, dining, and entertainment options. North Laine is perfect for those who love a bohemian and creative environment. This area is filled with independent shops, street art, and a lively atmosphere.
Booking in advance is often cheaper as prices rise closer to the date. Consider visiting during off-peak times to find better deals on accommodation. Using comparison websites like Booking.com can help you find the best prices. Brighton & Hove offers many types of accommodation to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels in the city center to budget-friendly options in Kemptown. Hostels are a popular choice among backpackers, offering affordable rates and a social atmosphere. For longer stays, renting an apartment provides more space and the convenience of self-catering facilities.
Public transportation in Brighton & Hove includes buses and trains, making it easy to get around the city. Staying near a train station adds convenience, especially if you plan to explore nearby areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for getting around town.
By planning ahead and choosing the right area, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation to make your stay in Brighton & Hove enjoyable and memorable.
