Brighton travel guide

Brighton was one of the first great seaside resorts of Europe and is now more popular than ever, with some 8 million tourists visiting each year. The Royal Pavilion and the Brighton Pier are essential parts of the city and links to its past, but a true cultural renaissance has occurred during the last decade that has transformed Brighton into something much more than just a seaside resort.

Brighton and Hove (together given city status in 2000) is today one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the UK, with world-class arts and culture, a world-famous music and club scene, an incredible nightlife, great shopping, top-class restaurants and a deep-seated tolerance of alternative lifestyles. Brighton is well known for its gay scene, and the city's bohemian traditions are alive and well.

Brighton is a growing, confident and forward-looking city. A state-of-the-art library was built for the new Cultural Quarter in the North Laine area, and several new hotels are planned both for here and the new Urban Village next to Brighton Station.