Mrs Fitzherbert

Maria Fitzherbert's connection to Brighton reads like a proper scandal - and that's exactly why it matters. The widow married the future George IV in secret, in defiance of the Royal Marriages Act, making her one of history's most quietly defiant women. You won't find a building named after her here, but her story threads through Brighton's Georgian streets and the Royal Pavilion itself, where the Prince conducted his affair with her while publicly denying it ever happened.

Visiting the sites connected to her - mainly the streets around the Old Steine and the Pavilion precincts - works best as a self-guided walk rather than a formal attraction. Bring a decent guidebook or do your homework beforehand, because the plaques are sparse and the council isn't exactly shouting about her legacy. It takes about two hours to trace her footsteps properly, though you'll spend longer if you duck into the Pavilion itself (admission charged separately).

History enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by royal scandal will find real meat here. Families with teenagers keen on Georgian drama might engage; younger kids will likely find it a bit thin on the ground for entertainment. The story becomes richer when you understand the context - a woman who refused to be erased, in an era when that took genuine courage.

Staying at Brighton Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite or Pegs and Pitches puts you within walking distance of everything. Combine this with proper seaside time and you've got a solid long weekend.