2 days in Brighton: a weekend itinerary
A palace, independent shops and the seafront on day one, and chalk cliffs or a hilltop town on day two.
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- Updated October 2026
Brighton is made for wandering, so this plan keeps day one in the town, with its famous palace, narrow lanes and pier, and uses day two for fresh air and a change of scene on the South Downs. It works best by train from London, because parking is expensive.
Wear shoes you can walk on pebbles in, and book dinner for Saturday evening.
Day 1: Palace, lanes and seafront
- Morning: Visit the Royal Pavilion, a striking Indian-inspired palace in the heart of town, and allow an hour or two.
- Lunch: Eat in North Laine, a neighbourhood of independent cafes and vintage shops.
- Afternoon: Browse the Lanes, the old fishing quarter of narrow alleys, then walk down to the seafront and along Brighton Palace Pier.
- Evening: Have dinner in the Lanes or the seafront area, then a pub or a show.
Day 2: Seven Sisters or Lewes
- Morning: Take a bus along the coast to Seven Sisters Country Park and walk the chalk cliffs towards Birling Gap, or take a train to the historic town of Lewes.
- Lunch: Eat at a pub in Lewes or at the cafe at Birling Gap.
- Afternoon: Return to Brighton for a relaxed afternoon on the beach, or visit the i360 viewing tower for a view of the coast.
- Heading home: Brighton station is a short walk from the centre, with fast trains to London.
Where to stay
The Lanes and seafront are central but busy, Kemp Town has a village feel, and Hove is calmer and more residential.
Prices change daily, so check a few sites. These are affiliate links.
Getting there and around
- From London: About 1 hour by train from London Victoria or London Bridge.
- From Manchester: About 4 to 5 hours by train via London, or 5 hours or more by car. It works better as a longer trip.
- From Liverpool: About 5 hours by train or car. Better for a three-night break.
The centre is compact and easy on foot. Buses run along the coast to the Seven Sisters, and trains to Lewes take about 15 minutes. Avoid driving, as parking is expensive and limited.
If it rains
If it rains, spend longer in the Royal Pavilion, the Brighton Museum, the independent shops of North Laine and the arcades on the pier.
Packing list for Brighton
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Beach and coast gear Wet-weather gear
Frequently asked questions
Is Brighton good for two days?
Yes. It is compact, and two days covers the town and one day trip comfortably.
How do I get to Seven Sisters from Brighton?
Take a bus along the coast road, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and then walk the cliffs.
Is the beach good?
It is shingle rather than sand, so bring shoes or a mat, but the sea and atmosphere are lively.
Keep planning
A lively seaside city with a pier, independent shops and nightlife
Brighton Palace Pier and seafrontBrighton, East SussexBrighton Palace Pier opened in 1899 and is one of the most famous seaside piers in Britain, with arcades, rides and food stalls.
Seven Sisters cliff walkSeven Sisters Country Park, East SussexThe Seven Sisters are a row of white chalk cliffs on the Sussex coast, between Seaford and Eastbourne.
Oysters in WhitstableWhitstable, KentWhitstable has been known for its oysters for centuries, and the town's harbour and seafront are full of seafood restaurants and stalls.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and travel details change, so check before you go. Report an error or share a tip.