Brighton Pier, ENGLAND
Airing Date: Apr 7th, 2007
The English seaside town of
Brighton is located just an hour and a half's drive south of London and has been popular with both tourists and locals alike for around 100 years.
In fact it has been ranked one of the UK's top 15 destinations for overseas visitors. Every May England's largest annual arts festival - the
Brighton Festival - is held here, with more than 700 events over 3 weeks.
But the spot that keeps bringing people back is the
Brighton Pier. It has had a very interesting history starting in 1891 when work commenced on the pier to replace the original Chain Pier. It was opened in grand ceremony on May 20th 1899. By 1911 concert hall had become a theatre attraction. 21 years elapsed before the next major phase saw the addition of a big wheel, heralding an extension to the piers' length and a widening of the promenade. Since then it has developed further with various new introductions.
One of the Piers main attractions is its rides. Some date back all the way to its inception, but then there are lots of new ones as well. Entry to the pier itself is free, with rides costing $3 each or more.
The
Allanjohns Rock Shop is a big attraction too and has various traditional candies on offer. However the most well recognised is the Brighton Rock. It's a stick of brightly coloured candy that you can purchase with your name, or a message in it for just three dollars.
The
Fishing Museum depicts history of the fishing industry and Brighton seaside. The nostalgic exhibition is set amidst arches still used by working fishermen.
Located near Brighton Pier is
The Royal Pavilion, built in 1822 By Prince Regent as his beach residence. The building is completely over the top. Tours are held through the Pavilion, taking in the huge banquet halls, and the ancient state of the art kitchen with appliances like a steam powered rotisserie.
Being by the seaside, seafood restaurants are in abundance. But good old fish and chips are the most popular, with various other English options including rollmops, cockles and whelks.
Costs & Contacts The Royal Pavilion Brighton - From $ 18 Adults, $ 13 Children. Prices correct at 7/4/07. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
Thai Airways International - Fly return to London from $ 2010 ex west coast and $ 2060 ex east coast. Prices correct at 8/3/07. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
The De Vere Grand Brighton- 1 night stay from $ 270 twin, $ 390 sea view. Includes breakfast & temporary leisure club membership. Prices correct at 7/4/07. Prices include taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
