A trip to the seaside may be synonymous with summer, but Brighton has its charms even in the colder months. For one thing, there are not as many tourists around, which means you won’t have any strangers wandering into your photographs. The town also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with gigs, clubs and exhibitions all through the year. When it’s much too cold to be strolling along the waterfront, why not take refuge in one of Brighton’s many museums? And while you could go for the obligatory fish and chips when you get hungry, the abundance of eateries in town provides you with the option of trying something more exotic.

Stay
Drakes – This little, 20-room hotel overlooking the Brighton seafront is a great option for a luxurious weekend getaway. The building’s original architecture has been beautifully preserved, and carefully updated with modern touches. There are large bathtubs in the rooms, and those with a sea-view room can enjoy their bath while looking out at the seafront. There is a wonderful little 24-hour cocktail bar tucked away where you can get a drink before enjoying an evening out on the town. Room rates start at £100.

See
Brighton Toy and Model Museum – Hidden away underneath the railway arches at Brighton Station is this museum that will delightful kids of all ages. Grown-ups may grow nostalgic for their childhood days when presented with the large array of toys in the museum, while kids will get a chance to marvel at old style toys such as Meccano sets and marionette dolls. There is also a large collection of slightly creepy Victorian dolls, and the museum’s centrepiece is an impressive working model train collection. On your way out, stop by at the gift shop and pick up some unusual toys or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Eat
Pomegranate – Skip the fish and chips and head for this Kurdish restaurant in Kemp Town. The dishes are at once both familiar and exotic, with standards such as beef and lamb shank given a Middle Eastern twist. There are several dishes featuring pomegranate, as you would expect from a restaurant named after the fruit. Try the small chunks of beef, served with rice and a sprinkling of the juicy, ruby-red seeds. There are also some very good seafood and vegetable dishes on the menu, with most ingredients sourced locally to ensure freshness.