Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton rises from the glittering seafront to the protective South Downs, with Beachy Head to the east and Worthing Point to the west, basking in one of the sunniest climates in the country. Brighton is often described as "London-by-the Sea," but this moniker does not do it justice. Brighton is about freedom. There is the obvious freedom provided by the wealth of leisure and entertainment facilities - the interweaving streets are lined with original and atmospheric bars, clubs and restaurants, and during the summer the beach front attains a festival - like ambiance on a daily basis.

However, if you take a closer look beyond the hedonistic pleasures that Brighton has to offer, an astonishing diversity, warmth and sense of community shines through. There is real freedom here through expression of individuality, tolerance of different ways of life, and an invigorating entrepreneurial spirit. Whatever your interest, be it sport, theater, eating out, clubbing or just strolling down the promenade taking it all in, Brighton will not let you go away disappointed.

Hitting the Beach

Start at Brighton Station once you have stepped off the train. Head straight out of the station and down the hill. This is Queens Road, and its best attraction is The Tamarind Tree, a terrific Caribbean restaurant. Veering off the road east will take you into the heart of the North Laine and on toward Kemp Town; west to the residential areas of Seven Dials, Montpelier and eventually Hove, but there's plenty of time for all that. You will soon arrive at a crossroads, centered around Brighton Clock Tower.

Shopaholics will spy Churchill Square shopping center to their right, but the sea is now clearly visible straight on, so keep going. Once past the Clock Tower the road becomes West Street. Lovers of shamelessly commercial dance music take note of the the Event II on the right. Also on the right is the multi-screen Odeon Cinema. But now the sea is at your fingertips, so cross the road and take in the view.

To the east lies Brighton Pier, all flashing lights, funfair rides, cotton candy and cheeky good times. Just behind Brighton Pier look out for the acclaimed Sealife Centre. To the west the battered yet beautiful West Pier represents the elegance, decadence and rich cultural diversity of this seaside town. Drop down onto the seafront between the piers and explore. If the sun is out it should be pretty lively. There are volleyball and basketball courts, a paddling pool and play area for those looking for activity. There may even be a band playing al fresco at The Ellipse.

For a drink try The Beach, Gemini Beach Bar or the Fortune of War. Hungry? Try Alfresco, The Honeyclub or The Boardwalk. For cultural points of interest, visit the Fishing Museum, the seafront Artists' Quarter with its open galleries and shops, and the marvelous Museum of Penny Slot Machines under Brighton Pier. Above all, walk, relax and take it all in.

You can walk west along the promenade all the way to Hove Lagoon and beyond. Walking to the east takes in the varied delights of the electric powered Volks Railway and the Concorde 2 venue. Keep going and you will get to Brighton Marina and you can continue on an under cliff walk along the beach all the way to Saltdean.

If this all sounds too energetic, then why not head for the shops, swiftly followed by the bars. City Center

Brighton is the one of the best places to shop, eat and drink in Great Britain. Start back at the Clock Tower. Directly west is Western Road, which is home to most of the major chains: Marks and Spencer, Gap,
Adjacent to Churchill Square is the Western Front, a landmark in Brighton bar culture. On the way down Western Road check out the Pull and Pump pub, sample fine French cuisine at La Fourchette or wander down Preston Street for a tex-mex feast at Dig In the Ribs.

The Lanes

From the Clock Tower turn east down North Street. A short way down is Ship Street on the right. This is a good place to enter The Lanes area. Packed with bars, restaurants and shops, there is too much good stuff to mention. Don't miss the Cricketers pub, Food for Friends and Terre a Terreveggie restaurants and Casablanca nightclub.

North Laine

Back on to North Street, continue down the hill and turn left at Bond Street. This brings you into the North Laine area. This is Brighton's "alternative" area and is even more chock-a-block with goodies. Komedia Arts Centre has loads of great attractions and the Mash Tun is an essential Brighton bar.

Returning once again to North Street, head down to its foot and to your left you will find the stunning Royal Pavilion. Walk through the grounds and see what's on at the Brighton Dome, and out the other side to Brighton Museum and Art Gallery on Church Street.

Hove, Kemp Town & North Brighton

There is so much to do in the central area of Brighton that many do not venture further afield, but they are missing a lot. Hove boasts some of the area's most magnificent architecture. Be sure to visit Brunswick and Palmeira Squares. It is also home to Sussex County Cricket ground and some great restaurants like Aumthong Thai.

In north Brighton, you should try and squeeze in a visit to the Duke of York's Picture House, stroll through Preston Park and take either Dyke Road or Ditchling Road up to the top of the South Downs. Also try and explore Kemp Town. There is great Regency-era architecture and a community spirit that epitomizes Brighton life alongside a few more bars, restaurants and shops.

Grab a map of the area (free ones are available from Brighton Tourist Information Centre in Bartholomew Square) and have the time of your life!