HostelBloggers

Fun in Sunny Brighton

Once upon a time (aka the middle of July) not so far away, the sun was shining and Hostelbloggers skipped their way down to Brighton for a spot of sun, sea and sand (well, pebbles).

With its lively, arty atmosphere and proximity to the capital (London to Brighton is just an hour on the train), the town has long been a popular seaside resort with both Brits and travelers alike. Having suffered somewhat recently thanks to cheap flights jetting holidaymakers off to hotter climes, it’s now making a bit of a comeback.

This south coast town has all the ingredients for a great budget weekend - a decent stretch of (albeit pebbly) beach, vibrant nightlife and a handful of cheap Brighton hostels near the coast.

As soon as the sun comes out, the main beach near the center of town fills up quick but we lucked on to a quiet sunbathing spot in the rather eerie shadow of the old pier. We admit we only managed a quick dip in the water, though - it may have been refreshing but the temperature left a lot to be desired for mid-July…

Food and drink is pretty good value (especially when compared with London) and there are plenty of great eateries to fill up in after a long day lazing by the sea. Pints average at £2.80 and a pub meal will set you back about £6.

Along Western Road (and all the side streets leading down to the beach from here), there’s an excellent range of international restaurants, from Mexican to Lebanese.

They’re all mostly affordable, although our takeway picnic on the beach came in even cheaper - we plumped for the obligatory British seaside meal of fish and chips which was surprisingly tasty considering the town’s large tourist trade.

Brighton is also renowned for its lively nightlife and in summer the town buzzes with an eclectic crowd drinking al fresco along New Street and around the Pavilion.

There’s a host of clubs and late night bars in the center of Brighton but the best atmosphere is arguably along the seafront, where venues line the edge of the beach and music and revelers spill out for a quick breath of sea air.

If the sun comes out to play again this year, we thoroughly recommend the town for a great cheap break from the hubbub of London.