Top things to do on a Brighton spa break

Brighton is an eclectic city with lots of wonderful reasons to visit, especially on a spa break. It’s got beaches, clubs, shops, art, culture, history, great restaurants and it’s easy to get to by train. Visit for a day, a weekend or a week, here are some of our top things to do on a Brighton spa break.

Things to do on a Brighton spa break

Visit Brighton Palace Pier

This Grade II-listed pier is an icon on the Brighton coastline. It’s been battered by storms and survived two world wars, and it welcomes millions each year. It’s home to arcade games, fairground rides and chippy vans - it’s practically a rite of passage visiting on a Brighton spa break.

Have coffee and watch the world go by

Brighton is brimming with coffee shops and good views, so make sure you take a moment to sit and watch the world go by!

Cycle the Undercliff Path

For those seeking a little outdoor adventure, cycle or stroll along the path beneath the chalk cliffs towards Eastbourne from the Palace Pier to Saltdean. Brighton has a city-wide BTN BikeShare scheme you can utilise and it should take about 30 minutes each way.

Listen to live music

Brighton is known for its music scene, welcoming unsigned bands as well as well known names. It’s also a great place for a night out. Explore smaller venues like the Green Door Store or larger locations like Concorde 2.For a more classic experience, you can also enjoy music, dance, theatre and poetry performances at Brighton Dome.

Go shopping

Vintage emporiums and treasure troves galore populate Brighton’s smaller streets, so make sure you spend time exploring. The eclectic flea market in Kensington Gardens is especially popular, especially for those searching for unique fashion items.

Visit Castle Hill

A short drive (or bus ride) from Brighton, and you will find the a protected nature reserve and abandoned village in the South Downs. Castle Hill itself is awash with nature including rare butterfly species, and at the bottom is Balsdean, a lost village once used for firing practice during the Second World War.

Visit The Sea Life centre

Families in particular will love The Sea Life centre - the world’s oldest operating aquarium, dating to 1872.It’s got a lagoon full of stingrays, an interactive Rockpool with starfish and it recently had a major refurbishment.

Go to the Royal Pavillion

This architectural gem is hard to miss. The Royal Pavillion is a Grade I-listed structure was designed by John Nash in the early 19th century. Once a holiday home for George, Prince of Wales (later George IV), it’s full of art and offers inspiring tours.

Enjoy sea views from the British Airways i360

A sea view is always a treat but from this 150-metre-high observation tower, it’s a step above the rest. The spaceship like tower gives you views across all of Brighton, out across the South Downs and over the Channel. On a clear day you can even see the Isle of Wight.

Where to stay on a Brighton spa break

For couples: The Grand Hotel - Eastbourne

Like wedding cake confectionary on the outside, inside you’ll find the old world charm and romantic luxury that attracted and inspired the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Debussy.

For friends: Ockenden Manor, Cuckfield

A luxury eco-friendly spa where the food is superb, the location not far from Brighton is classic and the wellbeing is the holistic; Ockenden Manor is the best of luxury and wellbeing, perfect for a small group of friends.

For families: Ashdown Park, East Grinstead

This historic hotel sits in 186 acres alongside a barn-style spa. With leisurely activities and a reputation for luxury touches, Ashdown Park a favourite for peaceful escapes for the whole family.

Just for you: Brighton Harbour Hotel and Spa, Brighton

With its glorious white facade and enviable location by Brighton Pier, Brighton Harbour Hotel is a luxurious spa hotel and a credit to the nationwide Harbour Hotels group. It’s great for sharing, but if you get the chance to keep it all to yourself, enjoy every moment.