The 10 Most Instagrammable Spots in Brighton

About the author: Hi! I'm Shiqin Ong, a Geography and Anthropology student at the University of Sussex. I love travelling, hiking, and music alongside writing! I'm also involved in uni sports including rugby, as well as the Photography Society and the student newspaper :)

If you’re looking for some IG-worthy places to explore in Brighton in between lectures, I’ve got the perfect places for you. From the quaint and classic to the modern and eclectic, here are some aesthetic suggestions for your next trip out-and-about.

1. Royal Pavilion & Garden 🏛️

A true Brighton icon and an all-round lovely place for a seat in the sun, the Royal Pavilion is rich in history and culture both inside and outside. Often lit up by dreamy purple light in winter, the garden is also home to the annual Brighton Winter Ice Rink, which is very popular amongst Brighton students – and is also the perfect place for a quick snap of you and your friends ice skating (provided you don't fall over, of course).

2. North Laine 🎨

Brighton's colourful street art always looks impressive on IG, and the North Laine is the perfect place to go to capture the very best of Brighton's many murals. Head on over to a nearby pub like The Eagle or The Prince Albert for a drink or two (and maybe a cheeky candid) in front of an aesthetic backdrop.

3. Brighton Beach Bandstand 🌊

The Brighton Beach Bandstand is a personal favourite of mine when I want to see that classic Brighton aesthetic. A traditional feature of this English seaside town, the bandstand perfectly frames all your photo shoots with its classic Victorian architecture. If you're lucky, you may just catch (or join!) local groups dancing on the bandstand while the afternoon sun filters down.

4. Hove beach huts 🏖️

Feel like your IG needs a pop of colour? Hove's beach huts are a must-see for any Brighton student who wants to show off that, yes, they're studying in one of the UK's most aesthetic cities.

5. The Reading Room 📖

A slightly quieter (but equally beautiful) part of Brighton to visit, The Reading Room is the perfect locale for a drink or brunch option. Both a site of heritage and a peaceful retreat from central Brighton and the city centre, its cosy interior provides an excellent spot to catch up and chill out with your friends.

6. Brighton Palace Pier ☀️

A key part of Brighton's culture, Brighton Palace Pier pier continues to be a top contender for a photo opportunity. The restored sign (designed by local artist Lucy Williams) makes the pier even more picturesque and, if you time it right, you can see some really beautiful sunsets here at low tide (when the sand reflects the setting sun) or even some awe-inspiring starling murmurations around the structure.

7. The Lanes 🛍️

In classic Brighton fashion, The Lanes never cease to amaze. One of the city's biggest attractions, this eclectic mixture of indie shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants will keep you busy for hours. Try visiting a coffee shop like Trading Post Coffee Roasters, which provides a selection of coffees, sweet treats and brunch/lunch options, alongside outdoor seating that's perfect for people watching. They also have a rooftop terrace on the third floor – just watch out for seagulls!

8. ALPHABET Brighton 🎵

Acting both as hi-fi pub and live music venue, ALPHABET's hidden vibe and warm interior make it the perfect place to grab a candid pic with a cocktail or a pint, or maybe a more high-energy photo of the live music and local artists playing the stage.

9. The Rotunda Café and Preston Park Market ☕

Nestled within Preston Park, the Rotunda Café gives you the perfect chance to explore one of Brighton’s many parks while sipping on one of their amazing coffees. If you’ve timed your visit so you’re there on a Sunday, the Preston Park Sunday Market features loads of delicious (and IG-worthy) food options.

10. Stanmer Park and House 🌳

As Brighton’s biggest park (located on the edge of the picturesque South Downs), Stanmer Park is perfect both for longer walks and for taking a well-earned break from uni by relaxing on the grass with friends. Home to Stanmer House, One Garden and Falmer Village, Stanmer Park provides loads of opportunities to wander, explore, and take some super pretty pictures.

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Whilst you’re out having fun in your new uni city, remember that UniHomes promotes responsible drinking, and any alcohol products featured within this article are for ages 18+.

The views and opinions expressed in these blogs are those of the UniHomes Content Ambassadors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of UniHomes. UniHomes accepts no liability for the content of these Student Blogs.