Brighton and Hove is such a densely packed city with lots to see and do over a very small area. You might think you could cover it all in a single weekend but there's a surprising amount of exploring to be done if you don't want to miss anything.
Although a seaside resort, visiting Brighton feels more like a city break. You're likely to spend more time in the maze of lanes full of independent shops, cool bars, and restaurants than you are on the shingle beaches—especially with a dog in tow.
Brighton is packed with amazing shops and eateries, you could pick somewhere at random and chances are it would be a great—and likely vegan and dog-friendly too! But these are the best dog-friendly things to do in Brighton as well as the best vegan-friendly places to eat and drink.
Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Brighton
Walk Along Brighton Promenade
One of the best seaside activities to enjoy with a dog is taking a leisurely stroll along the seafront. Brighton's promenade is lined with colourful beach hunts, restaurants, and coffee shops offering an enjoyable way to experience the city's lively atmosphere. Grab a coffee on your morning walk, take a seat along the seafront, and watch the city of Brighton come alive in front of you.
Explore The Lanes
Brighton is famous for its picturesque alleys known as 'the lanes.' These narrow streets are full of independent shops and vintage boutiques, as well as cafes and bars—and most of them are dog-friendly! Around every corner is something new to discover, encouraging you to explore further into the labyrinthine maze of hidden courtyards and alleyways.
Visit the Royal Pavilion Gardens
The Royal Pavilion is one of the most popular attractions in Brighton. The former royal residence combines Regency grandeur with Indian architecture and a Chinese-inspired interior. While dogs aren't allowed inside the building, they are free to explore the Royal Pavilion Gardens and it's well worth the visit. The gardens are a great place to relax, have a picnic, or people watch.
Ride the Volks Railway
The Volk's Electric Railway is the world's oldest electric railway and runs the length of Brighton seafront from the Palace Pier to the Marina. Dogs are welcome to ride the open train on its short yet scenic journey along the coast. There's also a small exhibition at the visitor centre with a selection of authentic railway hats and clothes to try on!
Shop at Brighton Open Market
Brighton's historic Open Market is home to over 50 stalls by local producers and creators selling regional goods, artisanal crafts, and seasonal treats. The bustling marketplace is the ideal location to shop for gifts and souvenirs, or stock up on locally-grown produce. Although Brighton Open Market is dog friendly, it does get busy so watch those paws!
Dog-Friendly Parks in Brighton
From small gardens to expansive parks, Brighton has some beautiful green spaces to explore, and most of them are within walking distance of the city centre.
If you want a break from the seaside crowds, you could visit the nearby South Downs, Hollingbury Woods, or Friston Forest. Larger parks closer to Brighton include Stanmer, Easthill, Withdean, and Hove Park.
- Dyke Road Park
- The Level
- Michelham Priory Gardens
- Preston Park
- St Ann's Well Gardens
- Queen's Park
- Royal Pavilion Gardens
Dog-Friendly Beaches in Brighton
Almost all beaches in the UK have restrictions for dogs between April and September, and Brighton is no different. The exception is that Brighton's dog-friendly beaches are split into sections.
There is somewhat clear signage particularly along the promenade by the main beach so sticking to the rules isn't difficult. You won't have to walk far to find a spot to sit on the shingles with your companion.
Dog-Friendly Attractions in Brighton
A few intriguing 'landmarks' worth a cursory glance when passing by include the Madeira Lift, West Pier, Anna's Museum, the remains of the Royal Suspension Chain Pier, and the Brighton Waste House.
Our favourite activities include a ride on the Volk’s Electric Railway followed by a walk through the beautiful Royal Pavilion Garden. Below are a few more of the best dog-friendly attractions in Brighton.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in Brighton
Brighton has lots of dog-friendly pubs so finding somewhere to enjoy a drink won't be difficult. I've tried to cover all bases from from classic pubs to real ale tap rooms, as well as cocktail lounges and live music venues.
My personal recommendations include The Basketweavers—a classic boozer—and the Vine Street Tap + Bottle—a modern bar with excellent wine.
- The Basketweavers
- BRZN
- Camelford Arms
- The Eagle
- The Evening Star
- Hole in the Wall
- The Mesmerist
- Plateau
- The Pond
- The Roundhill
- Saint James
- The Signalman
- St James Pub
- Vine Street Tap + Bottle
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Brighton
As with all my travel guides, I focus on eateries that are both dog-friendly as well as vegan-friendly. These places offer a generous plant-based menu often using seasonal and/or local ingredients. Your dog will be welcome to dine with you whether you drop by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
I recommend heading to Earl's for the best bahn mi you'll ever eat. No Catch for classic "fish" and chips, and The Signalman for a Sunday roast. For a sweet breakfast, Nowhere Man has all the pancakes.
- Cin Cin
- The Deli
- Dishoom Permit Rooms
- Earl's Sandwiches
- Eddie's
- Fatto A Mano (outside only!)
- Ginger Pig
- Halisco
- Kusaki
- No Catch
- Nowhere Man
- Pizza Pilgrims
- Purezza
- Red Snapper (outside only!) The Roundhill
- Shelter Hall
- The Signalman
Dog-Friendly Cafes and Coffee Shops in Brighton
Knowing the best places to grab coffee in the morning or drop by for a late afternoon snack is a must for me when travelling. I like to avoid taking a risk on an unknown cafe, and head instead to a highly recommended coffee shop. These are the best dog-friendly cafes and coffee shops in Brighton.
During my stay, I grabbed coffee on my morning walk along the promenade with the dog from both The Coffee Shop and The Flour Pot. Both were great but The Flour Pot was the best.
- Artbox Cafe
- Artist Residence
- Black Mocha
- Brod Wolf
- The Coffee Shop
- Flint Owl Bakery
- The Flour Pot
- The Laughing Dog Café
- Metro Deco
- Pelicano
Dog-Friendly Shops in Brighton
With or without a dog, I don't find shopping much fun. However, what makes Brighton different is its vintage shops, record stores, independent boutiques, and antique emporiums; making the city a fantastic place for thrifting.
If you're keen to pick up gifts or a souvenir, you'll find independent shops and local makers in the historic alleyways of Brighton known as The Lanes. Don't skip North Laine where you'll find all the highstreet favourites, as well as more independent shops and boutiques. Just like the rest of the UK, dogs are welcome at most stores in Brighton—just ask first!
Dog-Friendly Hotels in Brighton
There is plenty of dog-friendly accomodation in Brighton, from chain hotels to boutique BnBs. Places gets booked up fast during the peak holiday season though so don't leave booking somewhere to the last minute. Another issue is parking, which is notoriously hard to find in Brighton and expensive when you do! The most reasonably priced option is the London Road car park.
A few of the larger hotel chains, such as Ibis, Holiday Inn, and Travelodge allow dogs for a fee. These cheaper hotels may be the most affordable option, especially in Brighton, but they're often the least comfortable and not very dog-friendly. I've included a few of the best dog-friendly hotels in Brighton below.
I highly recommend staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole. While the staff were indifferent to our companion, our room was wonderfully spacious, which is what you need when sharing with a dog!
- Alston House Hotel
- The Artist Residence
- Brighton Harbour Hotel and Spa
- The Grand Brighton
- Hilton Brighton Metropole
- Holiday Inn
- Hotel du Vin
- Ibis
- The Malmaison
- Old Ship Hotel
- The Oriental
- The Royal Albion Hotel
- Travelodge
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