If you’re looking for things to do in Brighton that’ll put a spring in your step, then why not check out some of the best Brighton walks? Travelling by foot is one of the easiest ways to spot some of the region’s best attractions, and you can breathe in some fresh sea air as you meander along one of the coastal routes. Here’s a selection of walks around Brighton to pop on your itinerary.
What would a trip to Brighton be without visiting the seaside? This part of the world is renowned for its picturesque shingle beaches, and a five-mile stroll along the Brighton Coastal Path will take you right past some of the resort’s top attractions. Head westward out of the city from the renowned Brighton Pier – which is a hot spot for tourists all-year-round, but particularly during the summer – and head past The Tempest Inn, Hove, and Portslade towards Southwick. This route ends at Monarch’s Way, near Shoreham Harbour, where you can admire many different boats docked in the marina. Allow a couple of hours for this route so you can stop to take some photos and admire the sensational sea views.
While the Brighton coastal walk above is ideal for families in holiday mode looking to stretch their legs, Stanmer Park and Falmer Circular steps things up a couple of notches and is a good option for hiking enthusiasts. This loop trail is approximately nine-miles long and will take two to three hours to complete, depending on your fitness levels and walking pace. It’s also one of the walks near Brighton that are pet friendly, although dogs must be kept on a leash. Highlights of this walk include Falmer Station, the panoramic views from Stanmer Park, Stanmer House and the quaint Stanmer village.
Whether you’re glamping in Brighton for several nights or are just visiting for the day, you can unleash your adventurous side with The Undercliff Walk. This is one of the most popular and exhilarating walks in the area and consists of a three-mile stretch offering spectacular beach views, white cliffs and a much needed pint of beer, courtesy of The Watershed.
The route begins at Kemptown and follows the seaside trail to Saltdean, home to a Grade II-listed lido. Both pedestrians and cyclists can use this route, but take note that The Undercliff Walk is part of the city’s coast defences and protects the cliffs from erosion. Therefore when the tide is high or the weather is stormy, waves can come over the seawall. While getting splashed can be part of the fun, it’s important to use common sense and not venture out if conditions are too bad. Sometimes, part of the route will be closed for public safety.
If you’re searching for things to do in Surrey and the surrounding areas, then a walk from Brighton to Lewes might take your fancy. This is one of the easiest ways to explore the South Downs, with the route starting at Grand Central and heading beyond Brighton Racecourse until you reach the National Trail. Miles of grassland, rolling hills and wildlife await, so be sure to stop and admire the views. You could even pack a picnic. The walk will then take you past the chocolate-box village of Kingstone, home to beautiful 14th-century cottages, before joining Jugg’s Road towards Lewes Castle. This mediaeval landmark guards the gap in the South Downs cut by the River Ouse and offers wonderful views from the top of the Keep. So if you’re in the mood for a spot of additional tourism, you can end the walk with a castle tour.
If you’ve not much time and want to see as much of Brighton as possible, or you’re more likely to walk further if you’re surrounded by wonderful sights and distractions - this is the route for you. It’s approximately 5000 steps - that’s half of the recommended daily walking distance - and will take you past many of Brighton’s best bits.
Start in the gardens behind the Pavilion and head to busy North Street. Cross over the road and go down Meeting House Lane. You can then head south through The Lanes, a bustling network of boutique stalls and eateries, before reaching the seafront from Black Lion Street. You can then walk along the beach to the Brighton Pier. Stop here to enjoy the attractions before strolling along the promenade on the other side of the pier. If you cross over the road to Bedford Street after about 800-metres, this will lead you towards Evelyn Terrace and Queen’s Park. Turn right out of the park before you reach the playground and cross over West Drive to Albion Hill, continuing to Lewes Road. Turn left here and cross over Lewes Road at the lights, then head up Trafalgar Street and onto Sydney Street. Zig-zag through Kensington Gardens, Gardner Street and Bond Street to North Road before turning left to reach Pavilion Gardens.
