The city of Brighton and Hove is one of England's most exciting seaside destinations. Renowned for its cosmopolitan characters, diverse (and sometimes dizzying) entertainment venues and unsurpassed nightlife, local and international tourists flock to this city at every chance they get, be it for a long weekend or a summer vacation, and Brighton remains one of the most popular day trip destinations from London for foreign visitors. The stripy deckchairs on the iconic Brighton Pier have become an instantly recognisable image of the English seaside.<br /><br /> Brighton and Hove's modern atmosphere is strongly contrasted by some of its older Regency and Victorian architecture. The charming village lanes are home to numerous cafés, antique shops and jewellery stores, while not far away, the Palace Pier stretches out over the lapping waves of the sea, the lights and music from its funfair and amusement arcades luring vast, raucous crowds.<br /><br /> During the summer, the pebbled Brighton Beach (surprisingly comfortable!) and its waterfront bars and clubs become a vibrant 'anything goes' zone, with locals and vacationers alike throwing all caution to the wind and revelling in the laid-back, summery atmosphere.<br /><br />

Brighton

Address: Brighton and Hove

Brighton is unquestionably England's most spectacular seaside resort town. Made popular in the 18th century, when the Prince Regent (later King George IV) chose it as the site for his holiday palace (the bizarre and fantastic onion-shaped Brighton Pavilion), it is still famous for its frivolous entertainment venues and enviable nightlife. An eclectic combination of Regency and Victorian architecture gives Brighton a unique air, with winding village lanes and its flamboyant East Pier stretching out over the sea sparkling with thousands of lights from its funfair and amusement arcades.<br /><br /> The historic Brighton Lanes host a variety of quaint and quirky shops, with everything from antiques and jewellery to fortune-telling on offer. Wander lazily through the winding streets and relax at one of the numerous cafés while enjoying a cappuccino and a live jazz performance. By night, this quarter takes on a more ghoulish character, with the famous Ghost Walk being offered for the brave...with drinks at the haunted pub for survivors!<br /><br />

Brighton Palace Pier

Address: Brighton and Hove

As you step foot onto Brighton's Palace Pier, you are overwhelmed by the sound of repetitive arcade music and the inviting scent of popcorn or fried fish. A row of stalls selling fast-food, toys and souvenirs leads visitors towards the arcade, which is filled with an assortment of gaming machines and a couple more eateries. This opens out onto the funfair section at the end of the pier, where a number of rides - including a Ghost Train, Dodge 'Em Cars and a lovely Carousel - attract quite a crowd. A great place for both kids and the young-at-heart to spend the day, Brighton Pier is also a wonderful spot to set up one of the iconic striped deck chairs and just take in the view and soak up the atmosphere.<br /><br />

Royal Pavilion

Address: Brighton and Hove

The Royal Pavilion was built in stages between 1787 and 1823 as a pleasure palace for British royalty and remains one of Brighton and Hove's chief tourist attractions. The interior of the Royal Pavilion is extraordinary in its combination of exotic Asian and 'oh-so-British!' design. Classic furnishings belonging to Queen Elizabeth II stand beside fierce gilded dragons and imitation bamboo staircases, while the Music Room and the Great Kitchen are also truly impressive sights. The gardens are reminiscent of revolutionary 1730s landscaping, with curving paths between natural groups of trees and beautiful views afforded at every turn. Allow at least two hours to explore the palace and its noteworthy collections.<br /><br />

Brighton Festival

Where: ,Brighton and Hove

When: 3 - 25 May 2014

Since 1966, this entertaining arts festival has featured talented local and international contributors to the world of graphic art, theatre, circus, music, dance, film and literature. The Brighton Festival is England's largest event of its kind and is one of the highlights of the British cultural calendar. The Artists Open House allows visitors into artists' homes to view and purchase their work in intimate, personal surroundings, while live performances and other exhibitions take place throughout the city during the month of May, some free and some ticketed. Check the official website listed below for the full programme and other details.<br /><br />

Pride Summer Festival Week

Where: Madeira Drive to Preston Park,Brighton and Hove

When: 2 August 2014

This summer Pride festival features an exciting array of events throughout the city. The Carnival Parade starts at Madeira Drive, next to Brighton Pier, with spectators following the parade through town towards Preston Park. Once in the park, visitors can enjoy a variety of music tents, cabaret, food stalls and bars. One of the most vibrant and energetic Pride festivals in Britain, with over 160,000 people participating in the festivities, the Pride Summer Festival Week in Brighton is well worth attending for anybody keen to stand up for LGBT rights and have a glorious party at the same time. For details on all the associated events check out the official website listed below.<br /><br />