Considered the hippest city in the UK, Brighton comes to life during the summer with festivals and events. There’s a lot to do here beyond just going to the beach or shows and I think people really miss out on the charm of the city when they just focus on those two things. Brighton is actually a fun year-round destination for anyone looking for a short trip from London.

This travel guide to Brighton will help you plan a fun, affordable, and off-the-beaten-path visit to the city.

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Brighton

1. Wander the Brighton Pier

Brighton’s most famous attraction, the Brighton Palace Pier is a great place for a stroll. It’s particularly beautiful during sunset and sunrise. During the day, lots of people come and hang out at the arcades and restaurants. It’s great for relaxing and people-watching.

2. Visit the Royal Pavilion

Completed in 1823, the Royal Pavilion is Brighton’s most iconic building. It was often used as a royal summer home and during World War II it was transformed into a military hospital. There’s also a pretty garden in front that you can visit for free to get photos of the exterior. Adult admission is 16 GBP.

3. Spend time at Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach can get touristy and crowded in the summer, but it’s the best place to swim and get some sun. At the western end of Brighton Beach, near Hove Beach, there is a colorful row of beach huts perfect for some Insta-worthy pictures.

4. Day trip to Seven Sisters Country Park

Located within the South Downs National Park, the Seven Sisters Country Park is a great place for a quiet afternoon in nature. The park includes a number of chalk cliffs that run right up to the seaside. You can find several walking trails, canoeing, and paddleboarding options here. Admission is free.

5. Hike Devil’s Dyke

The largest dyke in the UK, this valley is part of the Southern England chalk formation. It’s home to beautiful wildlife, from birds to butterflies, and in recent years has become a popular spot for hang-gliding. It’s only accessible by car and parking costs 6 GBP per day.

Irish Shepherd’s Pie

Traditional Irish Shepherd’s Pie would actually call for ground lamb.  The difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie is the meat.  Cottage Pie uses ground beef, while Shepherd’s Pie uses ground lamb.

I called this recipe Shepherd’s Pie.  But, I wrote the recipe so that you could use ground beef or ground lamb.

I typically use ground beef because it is widely available.  But, for a special occasion, like St. Patricks day, I would use ground lamb.

How To Make Shepherd’s Pie

• Sauté some chopped onions in olive oil.
• Add ground beef or ground lamb.

• Add dried parsley, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Stir and cook the meat mixture until the meat is browned.
• Add minced garlic and Worcestershire sauce.
• Cook the garlic for a minute.
• Add flour and tomato paste.
• Add beef broth, frozen mixed peas and carrots, and frozen corn kernels.
• Simmer the meat gravy until it is thick.
• Boil some peeled and chopped potatoes until they are soft.
• Drain the potatoes
• Add butter, half & half, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Mash the potatoes until smooth.
• Pour the meat mixture into a casserole dish.
• Top it with the cheesy mashed potatoes.
• Bake until the meat is bubbling and the potatoes are golden.