Graham Padmore on what makes Brighton the coolest and most visit-worthy city along the coast of England.

Written by Graham Padmore

Despite having all the usual seaside clichés of pier, fairground rides and candyfloss, Brighton has a very different side. Dubbed ‘London by the sea’, this hip and happening city continues to surprise and intrigue visitors who flock here for independent shops, award winning food, friendly locals and a thriving art and alternative scene. For hipsters everywhere, here are seven reasons to visit the coolest seaside city in England.

1. The boutique shopping

Brighton has its fair share of the usual big name brands but it’s the variety of small, independent outlets that really makes Brighton a haven for those with money to burn. The fashionable ‘Laines’ is a good place to start. The half a square mile area is home to over 300 unique shops – the largest selection of independent retailers on the South Coast. Ty the North Laines for everything from vintage designer wear to dusty records and wander the more picturesque South Laines for bespoke jewellery and trinkitry from every corner of the globe.

2. The cafés and restaurants

The bohemian atmosphere of this city-by-the-sea is reflected in some of the cafes and restaurants on offer. Forget fish and chips on the pier (although there are plenty), Brighton is also home to a hearty clutch of vegetarian, vegan and organic eateries, many of which have several awards to their names. Head for Kensington Gardens in the North Laines for a choice of laid back coffee shops where you can stop and people watch for a while.

 3. The alternative music scene

The birthplace of the ‘big beat’ music genre, and home to DJ and music producer Fatboy Slim, Brighton has a thriving music scene. From the Big Beach Boutique open-air dance nights (which attract thousands) to the many intimate venues and rooms above pubs, this city has hundreds of places to see great local acts and big touring bands. Other famous local bands originating from Brighton include British Sea Power and The Kooks.

4. It has a love of art and design

Another of Brighton’s obvious strengths is its nurturing of artistic talent. Artists, designers, painters and all manor of creatives are based here, and the city offers plenty of chances to see some of their work. The annual Brighton Festival in May is a three-week celebration of all things arty, and attracts over 300,000 people a year. The Artists Open House scheme sees Brighton residents opening their doors to the public, where they are able to buy works of art directly from the artist.

5. The cool boutique hotels

Brighton’s old reputation as a place for a dirty weekend by the sea has changed somewhat, and it is now home to some of the UK’s best boutique and design hotels. The Myhotel – described as “where Freddie Mercury meets the Maharishi” – is an ultra modern, almost futuristic hotel in the centre of the city, while Hotel Pelirocco is a saucy rock ‘n roll retreat with themed rooms, individually styled by artists. Check in to the Play Room suite for an 8ft round bed, a plunge bath, and a burlesque-style pole dancing area.

6. Its open-minded outlook

Brighton has always embraced all cultural scenes and sub-cultures. With a bohemian air, the city is a very accepting place. Home to a thriving gay and lesbian scene, Brightonians and visitors are free to express themselves. The annual summer Pride Parade attracts a huge crowd to the city, and there is no shortage of welcoming pubs, clubs and hotels.

7. It’s one of the greenest cities in the UK

Voted the green capital of Britain, Brighton wears its Green credentials for all to see. The city is home to one the largest population of vegetarians in the country and is the first and the only borough in the country to have elected a Green Party MP, making political history. For a unique trip out take an eco-friendly bus to Earthship Brighton – a green building made from waste car tyres and recycled materials. It also collects its own water and generates its own heat and power.

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Graham Padmore is a travel blogger and photographer originally from Brighton UK. He is also the co-owner of travel tips and inspiration website GlobalGrasshopper.com. Here he writes about his favourite travel destinations with his wife and reviews hotels including Brighton boutique hotels.