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7 super accessible attractions in Brighton

Known for its alternative culture and LGTBQ+ welcoming nature, Brighton has long been one of England’s most inclusive and accessible destinations.

Watch Rosie Jones as she explores the city as part of her Mission:Accessible series with Channel 4.

And discover more about the locations featured, plus a few bonus things to do in Brighton, with our handy guide…

1

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach

Rosie Jones on Brighton Beach as part of Channel 4's Mission: Accessible series.

No trip to England’s iconic seaside city is complete without a visit to the beach. And while the pebbles might seem like a hindrance, there are two all-terrain beach wheelchairs for hire meaning you can get as close to the shore as you want. There are also ramps down to the promenade and a fully restored grade-II listed Victoria lift connecting Marine Parade to Madeira Drive below.

Find out more
2

The Queens Arms

The Queens Arms

Brighton’s iconic cabaret venue features an eclectic mix of entertainment, including drag queen comedy shows and quizzes. With no stairs and exceptional table service, The Queens Arms prides itself on being accessible to all, meaning nobody is left out of the fun.

With reasonably priced drinks and a friendly, sociable atmosphere, this Kemptown icon is always ready to serve up an unforgettable night out.

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3

Brighton Palace Pier

Brighton Palace Pier

Close up of person holding ice cream cone, Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton, East Sussex, England.

One of the city’s oldest and most iconic attractions, Brighton Palace Pier has been entertaining visitors for well over one hundred years. Despite its raised height, Brighton Palace Pier is wheelchair accessible from the Pier’s car park, and all its public areas and attractions (including the Palm Court restaurant and its two bars) are on the same level to ensure easy access for all.

Plus, with all staff trained in disability awareness protocols, there are plenty of friendly faces around to ensure your trip goes smoothly, along with braille menus in the restaurant and permissions for guide dogs.

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4

Brighton Toy & Model Museum

Brighton Toy & Model Museum

Come over all nostalgic at this one-stop-shop for toys, train sets and model airplanes from the past. Featuring vintage sets from brands like LEGO and Meccano, the Brighton Toy & Model Museum is packed with eye-catching displays. For an extra-rare treat, there’s even a set of vintage slot machines, taken straight from Brighton Pier and preserved in pristine condition.

Despite being housed in a set of Victorian cellars, the museum is fully accessible for wheelchair users, thanks to a series of renovations and a ramped access route.

Find out more
5

The British Airways i360

The i360

One of Brighton’s most recognisable features, the British Airways i360 stands 162m tall and has unparalleled 360 degree views across the city, the coastline and the English Channel. Uniquely, the entire viewing platform moves up and down and can house 200 people at one time.

Accessible from beach level (thanks to a wheelchair-friendly lift) and with features including hearing loops and display information in audio and large print, every effort has been made to ensure everybody can enjoy the i360’s unique perspective of Brighton.

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6

Brighton Sea Life

Brighton Sea Life

Take a trip under the sea at one of Brighton’s most popular and most accessible attractions. Dating back to 1872, Brighton Sea Life is the oldest operating aquarium in the world. Discover a variety of zones and experiences, celebrating all different species of sea life from tiny seahorses to 6ft sharks.

With step-free access, hearing loops, complimentary tickets for carers, and friendly staff who will go out of their way to answer questions and share insights, Sea Life Brighton is one of the best attractions to visit in Brighton.

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7

The Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion

 Royal Pavilion at sunset, Brighton, England

The former seaside retreat of George IV and Brighton’s most lavish attraction has retained its Georgian-era splendour and oriental-inspired décor with help from a dedicated trust. Explore the elaborate rooms – packed with bejewelled trinkets and dazzling chandeliers – before heading outside to venture through the expansive estate and gardens

The Royal Pavilion is wheelchair accessible and offers audio guides and large text on displays to help visitors on their journey around the palace. While some areas are inaccessible due to staircases, there is a video tour available which explores these rooms in-depth.

Find out more
8

Getting around

Brighton

With a range of services covering both Brighton and Hove, Brighton Buses offers an affordable and accessible way to get across the city quickly and easily. Looking to comfortably take in the sights of Brighton? Head out on a Coaster service for great views along the south coast. All buses now have a new ‘Helping Hand’ scheme which allows you to quickly and discreetly show the driver a card detailing your needs. Apply for the Helping Hand card ahead of your trip and then simply show the driver to get the assistance you require. Brighton Buses also employs a live tracker service for all its buses, letting you know exactly when and where your service is, completely negating those agonising waits at the stop.

Please note: While the attractions listed in this article have achieved good levels of accessibility, please be sure to make your own checks, inquiries and investigations directly with the attractions before travelling to ensure your individual accessibility requirements can be met. You can also find independently assessed accessible accommodation across the country and further ideas and inspiration in the Access for All section.

For more ideas of accessible places to visit in England, check out Rosie's other Mission: Accessible adventures to London, ManchesterCambridge and the West Country

16 Dec 2022(last updated)

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  • 1

    Brighton Beach

  • 2

    The Queens Arms

  • 3

    Brighton Palace Pier

  • 4

    Brighton Toy & Model Museum

  • 5

    The i360

  • 6

    Brighton Sea Life

  • 7

    The Royal Pavilion

  • 8

    Brighton

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