Top 7 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in Brighton for Couples

Brighton is like a perfectly wrapped gift for couples—a mix of historic charm and modern delights waiting to be unwrapped. Just an hour’s train ride from London, this seaside town offers the perfect setting for a romantic escape. Often called ‘London by the sea,’ Brighton boasts a mild coastal climate all year round, along with sun-kissed beaches, lively restaurants, boutique shops, and museums. With so much on offer, picking the best things to do in Brighton for couples can feel like searching for hidden gems. To help you plan a memorable trip, we’ve put together a list of the top 7 activities for you and your special someone to enjoy.
28 June 2022 7 min read
Endless activities for couples in Brighton

7 Exciting and Fun Things to Do in Brighton for Couples

Brighton offers countless ways for couples to enjoy quality time together. Let’s have a look at 7 of the interesting and trending ones.

1. Plan a Hike at the South Downs National Park

Hike at the South Downs is a very romantic thing to do in Brighton

Just a few miles from the city centre, The South Downs National Park is an excellent romantic retreat for nature lovers. One of the best Brighton date ideas would be to start your day early with a hike on scenic trails like the Seven Sisters or Devil’s Dyke, followed by a picnic breakfast on the slopes. 

You can spend time exploring the ancient woodlands to add a dose of curiosity to the day. 

The Kingley Vale, with its archaeological sites and the West Dean Woods, for its rich wildlife, are some of the popular options.

Although you can hire a tour guide, a good idea would be to use a  South Downs National Park map to explore at your own pace and privacy with your partner in crime. The park’s designation as a dark sky reserve makes way for an ideal end to your trip, stargazing and reflecting on a day well spent.

2. Embark on a Sunset Cruise  

Sailing on a Sunset cruise is the perfect date idea in Brighton

If you share a love for scenic beauty combined with relaxation, a sunset cruise brings about the perfect combination of romance, tranquillity, and breathtaking views, making it one of the best couples activities in Brighton.

These cruises last around two hours, departing from Brighton Marina, and offer stunning views of the sea and the iconic Brighton Pier. As the sun begins to set, the boat positions itself for an uninterrupted view of the horizon, allowing you both to take in the sunset over the sea. 

Cruises generally run between April and September, so it’s best to plan accordingly. You can choose a cruise that offers dining and live music to plan a romantic date night on Brighton waters. 

3. Trip to the British Airways i360

 An exciting date idea in Brighton is a visit to the i360

If thrill-seeking activities ignite a spark in your relationship, then a fun date idea in Brighton would be to visit the 162-metre-tall i360 viewing tower. It starts with a 25-minute ride to the top in the viewing pod, which offers stunning panoramic views of Brighton, the South Downs, and the English Channel.

During this ride, you can enjoy drinks and snacks at the Sky Bar, located in the pod, for a date in the sky. For those seeking an extra adrenaline rush, you can try Drop 360, where you’ll free fall together or challenge yourselves with Climb 360, ascending the 450-foot structure side by side, bonding and encouraging each other along the way.

Your i360 experience can culminate at the West Beach Bar & Kitchen, located at the base of the tower. Additionally, you can explore other cafes, shops, and restaurants near i360 Brighton to extend your date into the evening.

4. Take a Trip to the Brighton Beach and Pier

Beach outing is one of the most romantic things to do in Brighton

A leisurely day on the pebbled Brighton beach is a perfect idea for couples looking for a romantic seaside experience. You can arrange a cosy picnic on the sidelines of the historic West Pier or explore your adventurous side by paddle boarding or kayaking together. 

As the day progresses, make your way towards the iconic Palace Pier. Indulge in classic Brighton Palace Pier rides like the roller coaster or the nostalgic carousel, or just take a romantic walk, capturing the sunset views. 

You can indulge in the classic seaside favourite, fish and chips or candy floss from the beachfront stalls or wind down with a romantic meal at a restaurant overlooking the evening sea. Either way, it makes for one of the most amazing date night ideas in Brighton.

5. Explore the Lanes

The Lanes are home to Brighton's romantic restaurants

The narrow alleyways and winding streets offer a splendid way to spend hours holding hands and discovering hidden gems. From art galleries to boutiques, you can find one-of-a-kind treasures and gifts. The maze-like streets of The Lanes are often compared to a treasure hunt, turning your walk into an adventure where every turn offers a new surprise

With an abundance of bars and pubs, The Brighton Lanes are a charming destination for a couple to go on a date. Restaurants in Brighton’s Lanes rival the reputation of some of the best dining establishments in London

If you believe in the aphrodisiac properties of oysters, you should try Riddle and Finns or English’s of Brighton, who specialise in a wide variety of seafood. The candle-lit tables of the Coal Shed, serving high-quality steaks and seafood, are best for a date night in Brighton.

6. Take a Scenic Bike Tour

One of the fun things to do in Brighton for couples is a bike tour

If jewellery shops in Brighton lanes and quiet days on the beach do not excite you, then bike tours are definitely for you. Exploring Brighton on two wheels allows you to take in iconic spots like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, The Lanes, and Brighton Beach, all while enjoying each other’s company. Some tours even extend to the scenic South Downs National Park, offering a blend of city and nature.

These are typically 2-3 hours guided tours that offer historical insights from expert chaperones. The tour operator will provide bikes, helmets, and safety gear. Wear comfortable clothing, bring water, and apply sunscreen if needed. Although rest stops will allow you to enjoy a snack at local eateries, having a light meal before the tour is advisable. This will keep your energy levels optimal. 

The highlights of these tours are the hidden gems that you might miss without a guide and the scenic routes that showcase Brighton’s unique charm. With a day full of shared adventures and discoveries, this is one of the best Brighton activities for couples.

7. Tour the Royal Pavillion Gardens 

Indian-inspired onion domes of Royal Pavilion Gardens Brighton

The architecture in the Royal Pavilion gardens is a feast for the eyes. The Indian-inspired onion domes were built in the late 1700s as a royal residence for the future King of England. The buildings with Regency designs were created according to the fashion of the time and are still just as breathtaking today.

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You can take a stroll through these gardens, where botanical wonders and the Pavilion create a romantic backdrop. Along the way, you’ll find hidden benches and quiet alcoves, perfect for a peaceful moment together. The Pavillion Garden cafe is an ideal spot to break and enjoy some tea and pastries. A visit to the beautiful Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, housed within the gardens, offers a cultural treat to round off your day. The historical significance and architectural beauty, combined with the romantic ambience, make this location a treat for culturally curious couples.

Plan the Perfect Finale for your Romantic Outing

With our list of things to do in Brighton for couples, you can plan the perfect romantic escapade with your partner. But even with such diverse and distinct ideas, most romantic partners would still prefer and expect to end the day with a cliched candlelight dinner or a cosy, intimate meal. 

Creating such an experience after a day full of adventure and excitement might feel like a difficult task. This is where the services of a private chef become so valuable. 

When you hire a private chef, you give yourself one more chance to elevate your romantic experience. Whether cooking a scrumptious 3-course meal or recreating a particular dish, private chefs can deliver a memorable dining experience tailored to your expectations. 

Platforms like yhangry make it possible to connect with talented private chefs anywhere in the UK. From hassle-free booking to a seamless clean-up, these chefs take care of everything, leaving you free to focus on what matters most—turning your dinner into the perfect recipe for romance.

FAQs

Brighton attracts many partygoers from all over the UK with its dazzling and colourful nightclubs and pubs. It is a major destination for clubbing in the UK. The emergence of multiple live music venues and the carefree and open-minded attitude of the crowd further add to the vibrancy of the nightlife scene. Even the Brighton seafront comes to life with a variety of entertainment options at night.

Date ideas and fun things to do for couples in Brighton are endless. Some options are a candlelight dinner in a cosy cafe in the lanes, a live music event on the seafront, or a trip to Royal Pavillion Gardens. If you prefer something more intimate, you can hire a fine dining private chef to cook a customised meal in the privacy of your own home.

Brighton is one of the most pedestrian-friendly cities in the UK. Its layout is designed for easy exploration, making couples feel relaxed and at ease during their exploration. Many tourists visiting the city venture out on foot to explore its friendly and high-spirited atmosphere.