There are some neat sights to see in Brighton, in addition to the beach, ocean and sun, of course. First to see was a summer home of Prince Regent (later King George IV) that was built in the early 1800s. It’s called the Royal Pavilion, and looking at the building you wouldn’t guess it’s in a small beach town in England. Its Indian and Chinese influences are notable, and obvious; it was built to compliment the “Regency style” that was prevalent in buildings back in London.
(The Royal Pavilion)
Next we made our way to the beach. Brighton’s beach isn’t your normal beach – there’s no sand, it’s all small pebbles and rocks. Along the beach are numerous restaurants, bars and nightclubs. We found our way to one restaurant for fish ‘n chips (I’m rapidly becoming an official connoisseur of this English delicacy). Afterwards we decided to take a rest on one of the many sets of chairs located on the beach, only to find out it costs £2 per person for this pleasure. We promptly got up and left.
(Brighton Beach)
Finally, we visited St. Nicholas Church. This present church dates back to the mid-14th century, but there is evidence that a church stood here in 1086. The church is surrounded by a graveyard with tombs dating back to the early-1800s. Some quick history – the French attacked this town back in 1514, burning the village to the ground. This church was the ONLY building in the entire village to survive the attack. It’s strategically located on the top of a hill, and it felt like we were back in San Francisco as we walked from the heart of the town up to the church.
It was great to learn that such a great place exists so close to London. I’m sure we’ll be heading back, although that trip may need to wait until next summer. While I thoroughly enjoyed our time in Brighton, the high that day was about 62 degrees (F). The weather wasn’t all that important this trip because we spent most our time sightseeing, but next time I’d enjoy spending more time relaxing on the beach in the warm sun!!
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