The best landmarks in Brighton to visit according to TripAdvisor

If you're planning a trip there, or are just curious about what the city has to offer, we've rounded up the best landmarks in Brighton according to TripAdvisor.

The Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is the top landmark to visit in the area, according to reviewers on TripAdvisor.

With over 8,390 reviews, this historic site is a must-see for tourists and locals alike.

Visitors have praised the interesting history of the pavilion and the friendly and knowledgeable staff.

The Pavilion offers tours for those interested in learning more about its rich heritage.

The palace was originally built as a seaside retreat for King George IV, then Prince Regent, in the late 1700s.

Construction of the Royal Pavilion began in 1787, and over the years, it underwent several expansions and transformations.

The design of the building is known for its distinctive Indo-Saracenic style, a blend of Indian and Islamic architectural influences.

The exotic and lavish appearance of the Pavilion reflects the king's interest in the oriental aesthetic that was fashionable at the time.

Beyond its architectural and historical significance, the Royal Pavilion is also surrounded by beautiful gardens, which enhance its overall charm.

The gardens are meticulously landscaped with exotic plants and serene pathways, creating a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city.

The Lanes

Following closely behind the Royal Pavilion is The Lanes, a popular neighbourhood in the city located south of North Street.

With 6,240 reviews, this area is known for its great shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants.

Visitors recommend taking a leisurely stroll through The Lanes, enjoying the unique shops and stopping for a delicious lunch or a quick drink.

It is known for its narrow, winding streets lined with a vibrant mix of independent boutiques, antique shops, cafes, and restaurants.

This historic area dates back to the 18th century and has a unique charm that attracts both locals and tourists.

Here, you can find a variety of shops selling vintage clothing, jewellery, artwork, and handicrafts.

And besides shopping, The Lanes offer an array of dining options.

You can find everything from traditional British cuisine to international flavours, including Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern.

The Lanes also offer as vibrant nightlife.

From traditional pubs like The Bath Arms to live music venues The Mesmerist, there is something for everyone.

North Laine

Despite the similarity in names, locals will enthusiastically clarify that North Laine and The Lanes are two distinct experiences, each with its own unique charm and offerings.

North Laine is a vibrant and eclectic area located, as its name would suggest, north of North Street.

It is known for its unique shopping experience, diverse independent businesses, and bohemian atmosphere.

North Laine stands out from The Lanes due to its distinct character and offerings with the area is home to numerous markets and street stalls.

The heart of the area is Kensington Gardens, which contains the quirky Snoopers Paradise indoor flea market that attract visitors in search of vintage treasures and local produce.

Snoopers Paradise was among the businesses visited by the candidates of BBC1's hit show The Apprentice this year when they filmed in Brighton the previous May.

North Laine is not only an excellent shopping district but also an important cultural hub.

It is home to the Dukes at Komedia Picturehouse, attracting a diverse range of performers and artists.

Fun Fact: In November 2017, the newly released, official Brighton Monopoly board made a mistake by mixing up The Lanes and North Laine, causing extreme distress among city pedants.

Brighton Palace Pier

For those looking for a fun day out, the Brighton Palace Pier is a must-visit landmark.

With 8,767 reviews, this amusement and theme park offers a variety of activities for all ages.

Visitors can enjoy a stroll on the pier, try out the many fun attractions, or simply relax with a cocktail.

Brighton Palace Pier is a Grade II listed Victorian pier originally constructed in 1899 and one of the most popular attractions in the city.

The pier cost £27,000 to build, the equivalent of more than £2 million today.

Nowadays, it is a vibrant hub of activities and entertainment, attracting millions of visitors each year.

The pier features a variety of attractions, including amusement rides, arcades, shops, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

From classic carousel rides to thrilling roller coasters, like Turbo, and spinning tea cups, there is something to cater to everyone's taste for adventure.

The pier also boasts a range of traditional arcade games, providing visitors with the opportunity to try their luck and win prizes.

Whether it's shooting hoops, playing air hockey, or trying their hand at slot machines, the arcades offer endless entertainment options.

Food lovers will also enjoy the variety of dining options which range from traditional fish and chips to international cuisines.

There are also bars and pubs that offer live music, karaoke nights, and events throughout the year.

It's a fantastic place to unwind and enjoy the lively atmosphere after a day of exploring Brighton.

Brighton i360

Rounding out the list of top landmarks in Brighton is the Brighton i360.

With 4,323 reviews, this observation deck and tower offers stunning views of the city.

Visitors have praised the breathtaking views, especially on a clear and sunny day.

The Brighton i360 is an architectural marvel that offers breathtaking views of the city and the Sussex coastline.

The i360 stands at an impressive height of 162 meters and was designed by David Marks and Julia Barfield, the architects behind the iconic London Eye.

The tower opened to the public in August 2016 and has a futuristic glass pod capable of carrying up to 175 visitors at a time.

The pod slowly ascends to the top of the tower, providing panoramic 360-degree views of the surrounding area.

On a clear day, visitors can enjoy vistas extending up to the Isle of Wight some 50 miles away. 

It also offers views of the South Downs, the English Channel, and the lively Brighton cityscape.

Earlier this month, the site celebrated its first week of a new, unique experience for cricket fans to enjoy.

The Argus visited the facilities, which were designed for socialising, with a colourful interior filled with cricketing memorabilia and a large bar.

Visitors could choose from different speeds to play at, and the reporter found that after a few attempts, they were able to hit balls into the right areas and score points.

These landmarks offer a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant culture of Brighton.

Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the beautiful views, these landmarks are a must-visit on your trip to Brighton.