Brighton & Hove

Brighton and Hove is one city with two personalities. While Brighton is fast paced with a buzzing nightlife, the Hove side is far more sedate with a traditional seaside feel.

There are still a good many pubs and restaurants in Hove, but the wider roads and quieter beaches give the impression that you are a long way from the seething metropolis just a short drive further along the coast. You’ll find a good selection of independent stores and cafés in the pedestrianised shopping area along George Street and a lovely park in the centre (Hove Park) that covers almost 40 acres – great for walking and picnics – and has several recreational areas including tennis courts, a children’s playground and the amazing Fingermaze on the eastern edge. Hove Museum & Art Gallery is well worth a trip and, unlike some museums, is designed with youngsters in mind (for example, there’s an interactive toy gallery with a “wizard’s attic” theme). There are some lovely beaches along this stretch of the coast and a cycle lane that stretches all the way along the seafront to Brighton.