As Christmas approaches, Brighton and Hove has been named the best English seaside town to visit during the festive season.
Despite the cold winter weather, the Christmas spirit is ignited by twinkling lights, the aroma of mulled wine and pine, carol singing, and cosy fireside gatherings. It’s also an ideal time for wrapping up warm to explore vibrant Christmas markets or take long winter walks along the coast.
According to a study conducted by Go Outdoors, Brighton and Hove was ranked as England’s most festive city, scoring 9.38 on the Christmas adventure scale.
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The survey considered various festive factors, including Google searches for Christmas walks, the number of bars and pubs per 1,000 people, Christmas market days, ice skating rinks, and average annual snowfall days. Brighton and Hove outperformed other popular UK cities such as Nottingham, Manchester, and Whitby.
The seaside city offers a unique coastal twist to the Christmas spirit. While many envision bustling markets and snow-laden streets, Brighton provides a different experience – a seaside trip filled with lights, local flavours, and invigorating winter landscapes.
The city’s festive atmosphere is further enhanced by a thriving dining scene, boasting 4.17 restaurants per 1,000 residents, including local favourites like The Salt Room for seafood and Terre à Terre for vegetarian feasts, reports the Mirror.
One of the holiday highlights is the enchanting Brighton Lights at One Garden Brighton, a dazzling light show open to the public on the weekend of December 7 and 8, before running for two weeks from December 11 until December 23. Visitors can explore a light trail beyond a historic walled garden, through Stanmer’s famous orchard and the beautifully illuminated Palm House.
Another festive tradition that attracts visitors is the Royal Pavilion’s open-air ice rink, offering twinkly fun from October 26 until January 5. This outdoor activity allows visitors to skate in view of the iconic palace.
The city is also renowned for its eclectic nightlife, perfect for Christmas parties, cabaret nights, DJ events and much more. With a diverse music scene, the city draws partygoers and music lovers from all over the UK and beyond.
Christmas shopping in Brighton is a delight, with a mix of independent shops nestled in the winding alleyways of The Lanes and the seafront arches.
For a more festive experience, visitors can explore the Christmas Market and the Artists Open Houses events in Brighton, adding a creative twist to their holiday shopping. The city also hosts some unique traditions like Burn the Clocks, an annual event celebrating the winter solstice where participants carry hand-made lanterns in a procession that ends with burning them on the beach, symbolising the return of light.
First held in 1994, it’s a community-driven tradition marking the start of the holiday season. The Brighton area is also known for its scenic walking trails that reveal the beauty of the coast and the nearby South Downs.
Whether you prefer exploring the rugged cliff paths or wandering along a gentle coastal route, there are plenty of nearby trails to help you enjoy Brighton’s unique winter charm. During the winter months, the city attracts a slower pace and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the ocean views and the sound of waves – perfect for blowing the cobwebs away at Christmas.