Outside of the vintage shops, buzzing nightlife and trendy pubs and cafés, Brighton is also a great place for a good old-fashioned day out with the family. There’s lots to do for excitable little ones and moody teenagers alike. To give your family day out a bit of inspiration, we have handpicked the best family attractions that Brighton has to offer.
Sea Life Brighton
There are lots of Sea Life locations up and down the country, but what makes Brighton special is the fact that it is the world’s oldest operating aquariam and is just a stones throw away from the sea front! If you don’t fancy taking a dip in the nippy English Channel, then explore what’s lurking under the water in the Sea Life's many exhibits. Ranging from rescued endangered species to fascinating Zebra Sharks, visitors even get the opportunity to touch a starfish!
Great for children of all ages. Further information online.
Brighton Toy and Model Museum
Hidden under the arches beneath Brighton Railway Station is the Brighton Toy and Model Museum, a quaint collection of over 10,000 historical and antique toys. Their collection includes stuffed toys, Meccano, puppets, dinky toys and valuable railway collections including a working model train layout based on the Sussex countryside. Visit their Facebook page for more information about special events and interactive sessions.
Great for children of all ages and particularly big kids! More information about the museum online.
Palace Pier
Being a coastal town, Brighton has had its fair share of pier’s in its lifetime as a seaside destination. Palace Pier (more commonly known as Brighton Pier) is the last surviving of Brighton’s piers and is a popular landmark on the south coast. It is home to a large variety of food and drink outlets including classic seaside favourites like doughnuts and crepes as well as its Palm Court Restaurant, which Heston Blumenthal called the ‘Spiritual home of fish and chips’. Beyond the food and drink are the rides and attractions, fun for both families and thrill seekers. Rides include the Crazy Mouse rollercoaster, Turbo Coaster and Wild River log flume.
Great for all the family, but particularly older children and teenagers. Further information about the Pier online.
The Pottery Painting Café
For families who want to let their artistic side flow, The Painting Pottery Café offers arty fun for all ages. Booking is essential and you can choose to paint over 200 different types of ceramic pieces, which include mugs, bowls, vases and other ornaments. They also offer an introduction to throwing pots as well as being happy to host birthday parties for a minimum of 6 people. A great inside activity idea if a trip to the seaside gets tainted by the Great British weather!
Great for children ages 8 and above. Details about their private bookings online.
Jungle Rumble Adventure Golf
Adventure Golf is the perfect activity for bringing all the family together including Grannies and Grandads. Brighton’s Jungle Rumble is right on the seafront and has an exciting adventure theme including a live volcano and special effects. There is a choice of an 18 hole Caveman themed course or an 18 hole Treetop themed course, which can also be played together for those who fancy playing all 36 holes!
Great for children of all ages. Find current opening times for the Adventure Golf online.