Brighton

To be honest, the only thing I really knew about Brighton before we visited was that there was a pier there.  After visiting, I can’t tell you much more than there is a pier and a large Taj Mahal – esk building.

The pier was built in the late 19^th century (so it’s practically brand new in British standards) when Brighton became a major resort city.   Though not much more than cheesy fair games and junk food, the pier was alive on a bright, sunny day.

The beach is not exactly South Padre.  Rather than sand, it’s all rock.  Not pebbles, rocks.  And when the sun disappears, they don’t hold in the heat.  Gburr.

The Royal Pavilion was built by John Nash between 1815 and 1822 for the then Prince Regent (later King George IV).  Inspired by a recent visit to India, the style was probably a bit much for the area in the early 1800s.

The King’s Brother, William IV, and their niece, Queen Victoria also used the pavilion, though Victoria found the place vulgar and later sold it to the city of Brighton for £1 in 1850. It now serves multiple roles as a convention center, museum and occasional wedding site.  Just in case anyone is looking for somewhere to get married.