If you’re going to be spending the festive period on (or near) the south coast of the UK, then you owe it to yourself to make time to see Brighton. Yes, the famous beach resort city isn’t just appealing when the weather’s warm: it’s also a perfect destination for a magical Christmas retreat. In particular, there are a handful of attractions that should be considered must-visits for tourists of every stripe. Best of all, the city is easily accessible via train, making it a great place to visit if you’re based in the area.
Brighton Toy and Model Museum
This little museum includes an incredible sixty display areas including aircraft, dollhouses, model railways and a whole lot more besides. For adults and children with a fascination with all things miniaturized, it’s a day out that’s difficult to beat. You can expect to see manufacturer-specific examples from some of the biggest names in the history of toy making, like Hornby and Corgi. It’s extremely affordable, too. Bear in mind that the operating hours may be limited around Christmas itself, so check the dates before heading over.
Brighton Christmas Festival
The ubiquitous German market is to be found in cities across the country at this time of year – and they’re all much the same. Brighton’s Christmas festival, however, has a unique character that’s difficult to beat. On the seafront, you’ll find rides, shows, markets and plenty of festive food and drink. There are locations spread all over the city, so be sure not to visit just one of them. As such, the Christmas market is a great excuse to walk around and see the city.
The Lanes
When it comes to retail, the Lanes is among Brighton’s unique selling points. It’s a paradise for smaller, boutique establishments, but there are still plenty of more traditional high-street shopping opportunities within walking distance. You’ll also find an assortment of miniature cafes and restaurants, with Christmassy treats on offer, too. As well as a great place to do some shopping, it’s also a look back into the history of the city. Some of the pubs, like the Cricketer’s Arms, date back to the 16th century.
The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink
At any time of year, the famous Royal Pavilion is among Brighton’s foremost historic attractions. But it’s arguably at its best during wintertime when it’s accompanied by a wonderful ice rink. Whatever your skill level on skates, this is a brilliant way to spend a few hours with the whole family. There’s a bar and kitchen at the rink side, too. Ideally, you’ll want to book your tickets as far in advance as possible.
Photo by ocd studio on Unsplash
The LGBTQ+ scene
Of course, Brighton wouldn’t be Brighton without its well-known LGBTQ+ scene. It’s arguably home to one of the largest LGBTQ+ communities in the whole country. There’s a wealth of LGBT-themed nights out, including drag events at the city’s best venues, and the famous Gay Men’s Chorus.
If you’re looking to add some extra magic to your seasonal festivities this Christmas, Brighton is sure to have something for everyone!