The route
See a map of the route, including stops
Brighton’s two piers
The tour begins at Brighton Pier (Stop 1), home to the famous Promenade and many of the sights synonymous with the British seaside – a bandstand, arcades, a funfair and of course, plenty of ice cream.
You’ll travel west along the seafront, towards Brighton’s sister town, Hove, passing the West Pier (Stop 2). Built in the 1860s, the Grade I listed pier is currently a ruin after being destroyed by fire and storms, and is an atmospheric site against the backdrop of the open sea.
Palmeira Square and Churchill Square
You’ll see the magnificent architecture of Palmeira Square, a Grade II-listed seafront terrace dotted with Italian-inspired mansions (Stops 3 and 4). The bus then travels back to the city centre, passing Churchill Square, Brighton’s main shopping area (Stop 5), and heads to Brighton Station (Stop 6), the city’s main travel hub.
Old Steine / The Lanes
The route then loops around to Old Steine (Stop 7), where you can spot Regency architecture and fountains, and the area of Kemp Town, home to the city’s famous LGBT community and a hub for alternative culture.
Hop off here to explore the Lanes, the city’s legendary network of colourful shopping streets, filled with quirky shops and market stalls selling vintage goods, local cafes, and record stores. The Lanes are a must-visit, and the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir or two.
A Pavilion fit for a King
Probably the most beautiful thing you’ll see on your tour, the Royal Pavilion is one of the most unique and famous sights in Brighton. Set in leafy gardens, its lavish domed architecture is reminiscent of an Indian palace and has been called “Britain’s answer to the Taj Mahal”.
The Pavilion was built as a pleasure palace for King George IV, who visited Brighton to escape the bustle of London, and loved visiting the nearby pebble beach. You can save 10% on entry to the Pavilion with your bus ticket.
The route continues to the Royal Crescent (Stops 8 and 10) where you can admire beautiful seafront houses with 18th-century Regency architecture.
The seafront and Marina
Along the seafront you can see the historic Volks electric railway, a mini train that runs between the city centre and marina. At Brighton Marina (Stop 9), admire the boats in the working harbour and visit the arcade, or relax at the seafront shops and cafes.
Sea Life Centre
Finally, the tour takes you back to the Pier and stops outside the Brighton Sea Life Centre (Stop 11). Built in 1860, the Victorian building houses the oldest aquarium in the world, home to over 150 marine creatures, plus Britain’s first glass bottom boat. Your bus ticket includes 2-for-1 entry to the Centre.