Brighton, the English seaside resort with Bohemian charm

Near the Channel, Brighton is proud of its historic past and its seaside atmosphere. At the end of the 19th century, this town already appealed to the British aristocracy and became a thermal resort. Today it suprises visitors thanks to its patrimony of Regency inspiration, facing the beach where elegant buildings are a true spectacle, just like the singer Adèle.

English charm on the Brighton seashore

Prize gem of the crown, the Pier stands out in the middle of the sea. Inaugurated in 1899, this long jetty shelters an amusement park, restaurants and the gambling rooms of a casino. The other local symbol is the Royal Pavilion. Built for King Georges IV, this exotic palace enhances the Indian style. Pure product of English extravaganza, it is surrounded with gardens, surmounted by a series of domes, turrets, arrows, while its interior reception rooms feature authentic Chinese decorations.

At night time, the bright lights of the famous Brighton jetty scintillate. © DR

The Royal Pavilion that shelters a museum and a tea salon is an ideal venue for photographers. © DR

Typical of East Sussex, the center of town will take you back to the England of yesteryear. © DR

Life style in a bohemian version

From the Marina, take the time to stroll along the Lanes, these pedestrian passages filled with vintage boutiques, antique shops and pubs. They wind through the historical center until the Clock Tower, a handsome belfry, elevated to celebrate the Jubilee of Queen Victoria. A little further, the National Park of South Downs will enable you to approch the Seven Sisters cliffs, by the sea. Back in town, get ready, the night life here is very intense…

Address book

• Brighton Museum and Art Gallery​ - If there were just one museum to discover in Brighton, it would be this one for its three National collections as well as its Art Nouveau and Art Déco furniture.
• Royal Pavilion - The former royal residence, designed in the form of an Indian palace, is the not-to-be-missed visit for a total change of scenery.
• Waterhouse Bar & Terrace, at the Hilton hotel - With a stunning view on the beach, its dining room lit, by chandeliers, is the ideal place to share a seafood platter.

Travelling to Brighton

Eurostar ensures 18 daily Paris-London from the gare du Nord railway station, in 2h15. For Business Premier passengers, exclusive lounges, newspapers, WIFI and lunch are included. Reservations : www.eurostar.com

Staying in Brighton

At The Grand Hotel. More than a palace, this British institution, facing the seafront, hosting celebrities and crowned heads, offers deluxe suites. Its restaurant has a good reputation and the Spa is very relaxing. www.grandbrighton.co.uk

Sober and calm, the elegant suites of the Grand, facing the sea... let the sun shine in. © DR