Brighton

The pebbles crunch underfoot as seagulls wheel overhead, their cries mixing with the distant hum of amusement arcades. Brighton isn't just a seaside resort - it's a proper cultural melting pot where Regency elegance meets indie grit, and where you're as likely to stumble across a drag queen at 2pm as you are a pensioner feeding pigeons.

The seafront stretches for miles, dominated by the skeletal remains of the West Pier and the garish splendour of Brighton Pier. But venture inland and you'll find the real Brighton - the narrow Lanes crammed with vintage shops, the North Laine's bohemian cafes, and streets where every other building seems to house either a vegan restaurant or a craft beer pub.

Just beyond the urban sprawl, the South Downs roll away in gentle green waves. West Blatchington Windmill stands sentinel over the surrounding countryside, while The British Engineerium offers a fascinating glimpse into Victorian engineering prowess. Hove Park provides a welcome green lung, perfect for escaping the seaside crowds.

Getting here couldn't be easier - trains run regularly from London Victoria in just over an hour, and the A23 provides a direct route by car. Brighton station sits right in the heart of town, making it a doddle to explore on foot.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You get the best of both worlds - easy access to Brighton's nightlife and cultural scene, plus a peaceful retreat when the seafront gets too hectic. The surrounding countryside offers excellent walking on the Downs, and you're perfectly positioned for day trips along the coast.