The seaside town of Brighton has been a playground for Londoners since the 18th century. The area's history reaches back to the Stone Age, and its South Downs National Park draws walkers and bird watchers from around the world.

A day trip to Brighton from London lets you explore the town’s winding streets, the shingle beach and Brighton Palace Pier’s shops and attractions. Enjoy a full day’s visit and be back in London in time for dinner!

Read on for all you need to know about Brighton, one of the most emblematic destinations for day trips from London.

How to reach Brighton from London?

Brighton sits on the English Channel south of London. Less than 90 kilometers from London, Brighton is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.

From London to Brighton by car

It takes less than 2 hours to reach Brighton by car from London. Take the A3213 south to Vauxhall, then continue south on the A23/M23 until you reach Brighton.

From London to Brighton by bus/public transport

Traveling by rail to Brighton is hassle-free. Train journeys last over 1 hour, and you can choose from the Thameslink, Southern or Gatwick express lines from central London train stations. From Brighton Station, take bus lines 5, 5A, 5B and 27 to reach the main attractions.

Guided tour to Brighton from London

Guided day tours to Brighton cut stressors like creating an itinerary and driving or traveling by train. Tour companies provide door-to-door service and commentary during the journey which usually takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. There are self-guided and fully-guided tours to choose from.

What is the typical itinerary of a day tour to Brighton from London?

Your day tour to Brighton begins with pickup in the morning from your London hotel. You will enjoy hearing about the countryside from your guide during the drive to where Brighton sits on the southern coast of Sussex.

Tours will take you to the shore for a visit to Brighton Palace Pier, the beach and museums. Also nearby are Kemptown, bohemian North Lane, British Airways i360 and the Royal Palace. Grab a bite at one of the many restaurants in town or on the Pier.

If you book a tour for more than 8 hours, you will get the chance to visit the South Downs area. Tour the town of Petworth and the art collection of Petworth House, snap photos of the views at South Downs National Park and wander the halls of ancient Arundel Castle.

What kinds of tours can you take to Brighton?

There are several kinds of day tours to Brighton from London, all of which are private just for you and your group.

Shuttle transfer without guide to Brighton from London

Hop in an air-conditioned minivan from London airports or hotels for a relaxing drive to the seaside. These options include round-trip transportation and around 6 hours of free time in Brighton for you to fill however you would like.

Private tour to Brighton from London

Relax with the company of your own group, as all London day tours to Brighton are private. Spend 7 to 10 hours discovering the area with or without the help of a guide.

Start your day tour with morning hotel pickup in London. Travel in comfort with commentary from your driver during the 2-hour journey. Discover Brighton’s attractions on your own with an independent tour, or opt for a fully-guided tour to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Day trip to Brighton plus South Downs from London

Longer day tours of 8 to 10 hours afford the opportunity to visit the South Downs, an area just 1 hour from Brighton. South Downs National Park is the newest in the UK and is home to the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs and Devil’s Dyke National Trust.

Nearby you will have the chance to see the 1,000-year-old Arundel Castle and the art collection of 18th-century Petworth House.

How much do Brighton tours cost?

Private round-trip transfers to Brighton with pickup from Heathrow or London hotels cost around £500 per group of up to four people.

Prices of private tours to Brighton depend on the duration and sites visited during the trip. Most tours cost between £75 per person and £240 per person. Less expensive tours are for larger groups. More expensive tours include parking fees and include fully-guided visits to more sites.

Day trips to Brighton and the South Downs cost around £150 per person for an 8-hour visit. You can also opt for a a 12-hour tour to see more of this region for £480 per person.

What will you see on a day trip to Brighton?

In Brighton, start at the beach and pier dating from Victorian times. Brighton Palace Pier is a destination in and of itself, and you may want to spend your whole day here! There are arcades and rides to appeal to your inner child for hours. When snack or mealtime hits, you have your pick of eateries right on the pier.

Other places to hit near the beach are the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, and the Brighton Toy and Model Museum. Take in views from nearly 140 meters high at British Airways i360 tower. Also nearby is the Royal Pavilion, a must-see with its Indian architecture and surrounding gardens.

Catch a show at the Brighton Dome, Theater Royal Brighton or the Brighton Center, or search for the perfect gift in the Lanes, Kemptown and at the many art galleries.

Nature lovers can spend hours in Sea Life Brighton, just a 3-minute walk from the pier. Built in 1872, it’s the oldest aquarium in the world and houses some 5,500 creatures.

Choose a longer tour to visit the South Downs area. Kilometers of walking trails with sweeping views wind through the national park, and its white cliffs are ideal for spotting migratory birds.

When is the best time to visit Brighton?

June through October are the best times to visit Brighton. July and August are the best months for a visit if you want to lounge on the beach. However, its many attractions make it a year-round destination. Brighton’s climate is milder than other areas of the UK, and it rarely gets snow.

Travel tips

Bring a jacket for cooler, windy weather closer to the shore and on higher ground.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes appropriate for an active day.
For visits to South Downs National Park, carry binoculars to view sea birds.

Brighton: Day Trips and Tours from London