Top Things To Do In Brighton Palace Pier (Brighton) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Brighton Palace Pier

1. 1. Brighton Palace Pier Rides

   Brighton Palace Pier is an iconic symbol of the seaside city of Brighton, offering a variety of thrilling rides for all ages. With its bustling atmosphere and picturesque location, the pier extends out into the English Channel, providing visitors with spectacular views and an unforgettable experience. The rides include classics like the Carousel, the spooky Horror Hotel, and the adrenaline-pumping Turbo Coaster. Families can enjoy the Cup & Saucer or the traditional Helter Skelter. For those seeking more extreme thrills, the Air Race and the Booster will send you spinning and soaring high above the sea. The combination of the fresh sea air, the sounds of laughter and excitement, and the panoramic coastal vistas create a unique entertainment experience that embodies the spirit of traditional British seaside culture.

   Duration: Variable – Spend the whole afternoon or just a few hours · Price: Free entry to the pier; ride prices vary, individual tokens or unlimited ride wristbands available

2. 2. Brighton Sea Life Centre

   Situated near Brighton Palace Pier, the Sea Life Centre is an aquatic marvel offering visitors an enthralling glimpse into the underwater world. Housing over 5,000 creatures, the Sea Life Centre gives a unique opportunity to get up close with a vast array of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays. This indoor attraction boasts one of the oldest operating aquariums in the world and features a Victorian arcade that has been meticulously preserved. Visitors can walk through the ocean tunnel, discover the interactive rockpool, and enjoy daily talks and feeding sessions. The Sea Life Centre provides a blend of education, conservation, and entertainment, making it a perfect outing for the entire family and an immersive escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

   Duration: 1.5 – 2.5 hours · Price: Adults: £20+; Children: £15+; discounts available when booking online

3. 3. Palm Court Restaurant

   After enjoying the rides or simply strolling along Brighton Palace Pier, take the opportunity to indulge in British seaside cuisine at the Palm Court Restaurant, known as the 'Spiritual Home' of fish and chips. The menu offers sustainably sourced fish, classic English dishes, and a variety of meals to suit all tastes. With stunning views of the coast, this eatery combines a historic setting with contemporary dining. The restaurant has a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, ideal for refueling and savoring the taste of the sea. Whether it's a cup of tea and a slice of cake or a full seaside meal, the Palm Court Restaurant is a must-visit spot that truly captures the essence of Brighton's coastal charm.

   Duration: 1 – 2 hours · Price: Main courses from £10; Fish and chips around £12

4. 4. Brighton Pier Arcade

   Brighton Palace Pier also hosts an indoor arcade that is a treasure trove for gamers and those nostalgic for traditional seaside entertainment. Packed with classic arcade games, penny slot machines, and the latest video games, the arcade is a haven for amusement. It's a place where the ringing of coin-operated machines blends with the sounds of excitement and the flashing lights create an electrifying atmosphere. The arcade is both a trip down memory lane and a modern-day gaming hub where visitors can try their luck at winning prizes or simply enjoy the vibrant sensory experience. The arcade is an integral part of the pier's charm, offering an engaging activity regardless of the weather outside.

   Duration: As long as you wish · Price: Free entry; coin-operated games vary in price

5. 5. Brighton Pier Fishing

   For those who prefer a quieter, more reflective seaside activity, fishing off Brighton Palace Pier can be a serene and rewarding experience. The pier extends out into the English Channel, providing an excellent platform for sea fishing. Anglers can set up along certain sections of the pier to cast their lines and wait for a bite, with the possibility of catching mackerel, bass, and plaice among other species. Fishing from the pier offers a chance to bask in the tranquil marine environment, framed by panoramic views of the sea and coastline. Note that you will need your own fishing equipment and should be aware of any seasonal restrictions or local fishing regulations in place.

   Duration: Variable – From an hour to a full day · Price: Free; bring your own equipment

6. 6. Doughnut Gobbler Challenge

   For those with a sweet tooth and a competitive spirit, Brighton Palace Pier presents the Doughnut Gobbler Challenge. Located in a kiosk on the pier, this fun activity challenges participants to eat five sugared doughnuts without licking their lips. It's a tougher feat than it sounds and provides many laughs for both participants and spectators. Each weekend, the fastest doughnut-eating time wins a prize, adding an extra incentive to take on the challenge. Whether partaking or watching, the Doughnut Gobbler provides a quintessentially British seaside experience, merging indulgence with amusement, and is a delightful way to create lasting memories on Brighton Palace Pier.

   Duration: 15-30 minutes · Price: Entry fee of £3-£5 per person

7. 7. Horror Hotel Haunted House

   Thrill-seekers visiting Brighton Palace Pier can step into the Horror Hotel, a haunted house attraction that provides a spine-tingling adventure. This is not for the faint-hearted; the hotel is a lair of scares with its unexpected twists and turns in the dark. As you navigate through the dimly lit corridors, be prepared to encounter creepy characters and spine-chilling scenarios that are sure to make you jump. Combining modern special effects with old-school jump scares, the Horror Hotel manages to entertain and frighten in equal measure. This attraction captures the essence of classic ghost train rides and is best enjoyed by those who love a good scare and a laughter-induced adrenaline rush.

   Duration: 5-10 minutes · Price: Around £3-£4 per entry

8. 8. Fortune Teller Booths

   The Brighton Palace Pier features multiple fortune teller booths, where visitors seeking a glimpse into their future can consult with the pier's resident seers. Whether you're a believer in the mystical arts or just looking for a bit of fun, the fortune teller experience is entertaining and enjoyable. It harkens back to the Victorian fascination with spiritualism and the mystical, adding a touch of historical intrigue to the visit. Each booth is ornately decorated, providing a mysterious and intimate space where you can hear predictions about love, success, and fortune. It's a unique way to add a little magic to your time on the pier and, who knows, the reading might just inspire or amuse!

   Duration: 10-20 minutes · Price: Around £5-£10 per reading

9. 9. Pier Pressure Photo Booths

   Capturing the fun of your visit to Brighton Palace Pier, the photo booths scattered along the pier offer a chance to snap a lasting souvenir. These booths provide a variety of fun props and costumes, encouraging visitors to get creative and strike a pose. Whether you opt for a traditional strip of photos or a modern digital print with wacky filters and backdrops, it's a fantastic way to remember your seaside trip. The Pier Pressure Photo Booths are especially popular among groups of friends and families seeking a light-hearted activity that results in a take-home memento.

   Duration: 5-15 minutes · Price: Around £5 per photo session

10. 10. Pier-End Bar Drinks and Views

    Ending a day of fun at Brighton Palace Pier, the Pier-End Bar offers a place to unwind with refreshing drinks while soaking in the beautiful views of the coast and the sea. The bar serves a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including traditional beers, fine wines, cocktails, and soft drinks, perfect for sipping as the sun begins to set. The calming ambiance and picturesque surroundings make for a relaxing experience, and it is an ideal spot for visitors who want to extend their stay on the pier and relish the beauty of Brighton's seaside. Whether it's a cool drink on a hot day or a warm cup of hot chocolate on a brisk evening, the Pier-End Bar caters to all seasons and preferences.

    Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour · Price: Drinks starting at around £2.50 and up