There are many things to love about Brighton; the pier, the quirky shops, the lanes. But one thing that tends to put people off is that it can be a little pricey. But there are ways around that.
I recently went to stay in Brighton, courtesy of Visit Brighton, who arranged some budget-friendly activities for myself and my family. It had been a long time since I took my little boy away, so we were super excited to be experiencing things that we knew we could go back to and afford (even if one at a time).
I wrote recently about my trip to Brighton, and how it gave me the chance to reflect on what is and isn’t important in my life; and to reflect on how I had been neglecting myself when it came to self-care.
Being out in the breeze, enjoying chips on the seafront, and watching my little boy play in the park, made me realise that this connection to both the outside world (aka, beyond social media), was what I had been missing for quite some time.
I developed postnatal depression after having my baby in 2020. There was a long time where I couldn’t even face leaving the house – let alone brush my hair or find the energy to shower.
And of course, I’m not saying a trip away is the cure for postnatal depression (still struggling, over here!), but it was an experience I had desperately needed for a long time, without even realising it.
So, what was there to do? Well…
The Old Ship Hotel
We stayed in the Old Ship Hotel, a traditional-style hotel with old-fashioned elevators and a lovely bar. The room was very simple and eloquent, beautifully styled in a light blue and grey decor. The bed was large and comfy, and the bathroom had everything we needed. Though it wasn’t a family room, it was most definitely big enough for our little family of three – so no need to upgrade if it’s just you, your partner, and your baby!
Brighton Seafront
Brighton Seafront has a range of things to do, from a funfair to bars, to seaside cafes and restaurants and direct access to the Sea Life Centre. We took my son onto the pebbles and had chips on the beach.
British Airways I360
Experience an incredible view from the British Airways i360. Glide up gently to 450ft in a futuristic glass viewing pod, to admire 360 degree views across Brighton & Hove, and the South Downs National Park. On the clearest of days, you can even see all the way across to the Isle of Wight. The pod is ultra safe and a perfect adventure for both yourself and any little ones – especially for those who love to sightsee everything all in one go.
Brighton Sea Life Centre
A magical aquarium with everything you could possibly want to see – from teeny clown fish to large sharks, there’s even a walk-through tunnel so that you can see huge turtles and sharks swim above you (not for those with a severe fear of sharks!). The rooms are dark with gorgeous lighting, and there’s a walkway to follow through – and little bits for the children along the way. There are some fish to feed, and you can even say a direct hello to the stingrays. A wonderful adventure.
Stammer Park
Fancy a free day out? This is for you. Beautiful fields, hills and greenery, and a cute cafe with hot drinks and gingerbread men. Follow up a trail and you’ll find people taking health and wellbeing classes, lots of woodland, and extensive open lands. Stammer Park is home to the Centre for Ecotherapy, which provides support for vulnerable people in the local community, aiming to improve and maintain wellbeing through the use of nature-based and horticultural therapies, mindfulness, and practical activities.
Curry Leaf Cafe
Finish up ther day with one of the best 12 Indian restaurants in Britain, judged by BBC Good Food Magazine. Curry Leaf Cafe’s original restaurant in Brighton Lanes serves up authentic South Indian food, and officially the UK’s finest range of craft beers in a colourful, laid back dining space, with decked out wooden tables, exposed brick walls and vintage Indian design touches.
This experience was gifted by Visit Brighton. To see more about what they have to offer, click here.