Top free things to do in Brighton

The top of your list for free things to do in Brighton has to be its iconic pier, and the alluring beach that spans either side of its base. Although still as popular for a stroll along as it was in its Victorian heyday, the pier today has loads more on – from spots to eat and rides and attractions. But if you want to stick to a budget, simply head to the pierhead and enjoy the views looking out to sea, before returning back to the beach to soak up the sun, enjoy a picnic or dive into a good book.

Situated a short way back from the seafront and just opposite Hove Green, the Booth Museum of Natural History makes for a brilliant rainy day option. Inside this small building you can find out more about natural history, from butterflies to fossils. There’s also a Victorian Study, a recreation of a 19th-century collector’s study: here, you’ll see writing desks and leopard skin rugs, highlighting not only the popularity of natural history to the Victorians but also our changing attitudes towards preservation.

Another quirky – and free – museum in Brighton is its Fishing Museum , positioned along the seafront and not far from the pier. Set in the arches below the promenade, and with a few traditional wooden boats set outside, this museum takes you on a fascinating journey all about the thriving fishing industry throughout history, which is represented with artefacts, film archives and even folk songs.

While Brighton is famed for being one of the top seaside destinations in the UK, escape to the countryside at Stanmer Park, where woodland trails, grazing cattle and rolling hills make up the verdant green scenes. It’s a perfect place for a stroll, however short or long you wish to make it, where you’ll pass kestrels and owls, deer and badgers and more. Browsing holidays in Brighton? Staying in the city centre might cost you more, so consider staying a little further out and venturing in if you’re travelling on a budget.

One of the most buzzing parts of Brighton is The Lanes, an eclectic collection of lanes which are lined with unique shops, from quirky boutiques to specialist antique shops. As you wander down the Lanes, you’ll pass by plenty of tempting cafes, restaurants and bars which offer outdoor seating and make for prime people-watching territory. Simply walking down the Lanes is an iconic Brighton experience in itself; but be warned, it can be pretty tempting to splash out on a potted plant, cup of coffee or new pair of shoes...

The Regency-style Royal Pavilion Gardens is overlooked by the Indian-styled Royal Pavilion, making it a picturesque setting for hanging out. Plus, with live music on offer, this is a great way to soak up the fun, lively atmosphere of the south coast’s favourite city.

The elegant Brighton Marina is Britain’s largest, and while there are chic hotels and trendy restaurants to enjoy, simply strolling around and taking in the luxury yachts and gleaming speedboats makes for an enjoyable pastime.

Housed in a gorgeous Italianate-style villa, theHove Museum & Art Gallery covers all things toys, cinema and fine art. Kids will enjoy the Wizard’s Attic, plus there are changing exhibitions and an interesting local history gallery to peruse.