The Royal Pavilion is Brighton in a nutshell – or rather in a huge, crazy building designed by a madman. Its onion domes, minarets and dainty verandas combine to present probably the most intricate and overdone building frontage anywhere in the UK. There’s plenty to see inside – the Music Rooms, the incredible Banqueting Hall, the Great Kitchen and the Royal Bedrooms. Visitors can take advantage of multi media guides to learn about the rooms and the history as they wander. The Pavilion also runs special interest tours, which teach the visitor more about the Prince Regent and his extravagant lifestyle. Group bookings must be made well in advance for July and August.

Great for: Day Trips

The surviving Brighton Pier is more commonly known as the Palace Pier – its proper name is the Brighton Marine Palace and Pier. It’s a gorgeous example of a Victorian pier, in full working order, and the ideal place to spend a day out with the family. There’s a selection of traditional rides, kids rides and thrill rides in the funfair; there’s a swanky restaurant (the Palm Court) plus kiosks and bars; and not one but two arcades. Gamers can head off to the Palace of Fun and the Dome for some serious action, including the first ever Guitar Hero machine in the country.

Great for: Family Fun

Marinas don’t get much bigger than this – at least not in Europe. Brighton’s prestigious Marina is the biggest on the continent, and it features a lot more than just boats. The dedicated shopper will have their work cut out, thanks to the Marina’s massive arcade. There are 22 bars, restaurants and cafes to choose from, a cinema, a gym and a bowling alley, and a casino. You can even live there, if you’ve got a spare squillion pounds to spend on one of the Marina’s exclusive water front properties! Perfect for a rainy day, or just to catch up with friends over a lazy lunch.

Great for: Day Trips