Discover Brighton with the City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

The City Sightseeing Brighton Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a convenient way to explore this lively seaside town. Priced at $20.66 per person and typically booked 7 days in advance, the tour provides around 50 minutes of a full loop, with the flexibility to hop on and off as many times as desired within 1 or 2 days. It features an open-top double-decker bus that delivers unobstructed views of Brighton’s bustling streets, historic landmarks, and scenic waterfront.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who want a rundown of Brighton at their own pace, with visits to standout locations such as Brighton Pier, the Royal Pavilion, and Sea Life Brighton. While the full circuit takes approximately 50 minutes, the two-day ticket unlocks the opportunity to explore at a leisurely pace, with access to all Brighton & Hove Bus services. The onboard audio commentary, available in 7 languages, enhances the experience by sharing interesting stories and facts about the city’s sights.

Key Points

Affordable price of $20.66 includes access to multiple attractions and local bus services
Flexible 1- or 2-day tickets allow unlimited hop-on hop-off trips
Impressive stops include Brighton Pier, the Royal Pavilion, and Brighton Marina
Open-top double-decker buses provide excellent city views and photo opportunities
Onboard commentary in 7 languages enriches the sightseeing experience
Additional discounts available for attractions like Sea Life Brighton and Volk’s Electric Railway

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Starting Point at Brighton Palace Pier

The tour begins at Brighton Palace Pier, a lively hub famous for its rides, arcade games, and lively atmosphere. This iconic spot is perfect for those who enjoy classic seaside entertainment. The pier’s lively setting and spectacular views of the coastline make it an ideal starting point to get a feel for Brighton’s vibrant seaside charm.

Stops at West Pier and Grand Avenue for Scenic Views

From the Palace Pier, the bus route continues to West Pier, which offers picturesque views of the coastline and a chance to appreciate Brighton’s historic waterfront. Later, the route passes through Grand Avenue in Hove, giving travelers a glimpse of the elegant residential areas and local neighborhoods.

Exploring Brighton’s Architectural Highlights at Palmeira Square and Seven Dials

Next, the tour stops at Palmeira Square in Hove, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful vibe, perfect for a quick photo or a short stroll. The Seven Dials area provides a lively shopping and dining scene, offering a taste of Brighton’s trendy local culture.

Brighton Railway Station and the Jubilee Clock Tower

The Brighton Station stop is convenient for those arriving by train or planning to connect with other public transport routes. Nearby, the Jubilee Clock Tower stands as a historic landmark that symbolises Brighton’s Victorian heritage and is a popular photo spot.

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The Royal Pavilion: Brighton’s Iconic Palace

A highlight of the route is the stop at the Royal Pavilion, a former royal residence renowned for its exotic Indo-Saracenic architecture and lush gardens. The audio commentary provides insights into the building’s history, making this an essential stop for cultural enthusiasts.

The Level and Brighton Racecourse for Recreation and Events

Further along, the bus reaches The Level, a central park area ideal for picnics or relaxing walks. Nearby, Brighton Racecourse hosts various events throughout the year and offers scenic views over the surrounding landscape, making it a notable stop for sports and leisure fans.

Brighton Marina: Waterside Fun and Dining

The Brighton Marina stop introduces visitors to a lively waterside area filled with restaurants, shops, and watersports activities. It’s a great place to explore after hopping off the bus, especially for those interested in maritime pursuits or just enjoying a seaside meal.

Paston Place and the Final Loop

The last stops include Paston Place, a charming area close to Brighton’s city center, offering a blend of local eateries and shops. The full 50-minute loop ends back at Palace Pier, but the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off tickets allows visitors to spend more time at their preferred locations.

Included Benefits and Savings

Your ticket includes not only the bus ride but also unlimited access to all Brighton & Hove Bus services up until 4:30 am the next day. There are several discounts, such as 30% off entry to Sea Life Brighton and over 25% off Volk’s Electric Railway, making this tour a value-packed option for those looking to explore beyond the main sights.

Practicalities and Tour Schedule

The tour operates most days, with the first bus departing at 10 am from Stop 1 and the last at 5 pm. During peak seasons, the frequency increases to every 30 minutes, ensuring minimal wait times. The tour does not run on certain dates like the Brighton Marathon, Children’s Parade, or Brighton Pride, so travelers should check the schedule if visiting during special events.

Accessibility and Booking Tips

The mobile ticket makes booking easy, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. However, no hotel pickup or drop-off is included, so guests should plan to arrive at the designated stops in advance. The full loop is designed to be manageable in about 50 minutes, perfect for a quick overview or a relaxed exploration.

Overall Experience and Suitability

The Brighton hop-on hop-off bus tour shines as a cost-effective, flexible way to see the city’s top sights, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The audio commentary and comfortable buses make it enjoyable, and the ability to use the ticket on local buses adds significant value. While some reviews mention limitations like the number of stops or ticket booking issues, the overall sentiment remains positive, emphasizing friendly staff, good value, and informative guides.

Final Thoughts on the Brighton Bus Tour

This tour offers a practical way to experience Brighton’s highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport on your own. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike who want to maximize their sightseeing time. The cost, flexibility, and additional discounts make it an attractive option for most visitors.

However, travelers should be aware of specific blackout dates and ticketing requirements, especially if booking last minute. The full circuit remains a scenic overview, but to get a deeper experience of some stops, hopping off and exploring on foot is recommended.

Ready to Book?

City Sightseeing Brighton Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

4.5

(139)

“Great fun even though I have lived in this city for nearly 40 years. Birthday treat for my granddaughter.”

— Sophia M, Apr 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Brighton hop-on hop-off tour cost?
The ticket costs $20.66 per person and includes access for 1 or 2 days.

What are the main stops on the route?
Major stops include Brighton Palace Pier, Royal Pavilion, Sea Life Brighton, Brighton Marina, and Jubilee Clock Tower.

Can I use the ticket on local buses?
Yes, the ticket grants unlimited access to all Brighton & Hove Bus services until 4:30 am the following morning.

What is the duration of a full circuit?
The full tour lasts approximately 50 minutes without hopping off.

How often do the buses run?
During peak times, buses run every 30 minutes, but during off-peak, the interval extends to 60 minutes.

Are there discounts for attractions?
Yes, the ticket includes 30% off Sea Life Brighton, over 25% off Volk’s Electric Railway, and discounts at other local venues.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
The buses are suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. Accessibility details are not specified but generally should be checked before booking.

What should I do if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Are there any days when the tour does not operate?
Yes, the tour does not run on certain dates such as April 6th, May 3rd, and August 2nd, due to events like the Brighton Marathon, Children’s Parade, and Brighton Pride.

How should I book the tickets?
Tickets are available online as a mobile voucher, which must be presented at stops. Printable tickets are required for validation.

What do reviews say about the experience?
Reviews highlight the informative commentary, friendly staff, and value for money, though some mention problems with online booking. The tour is appreciated as a reliable and enjoyable way to see Brighton.

This City Sightseeing Brighton Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers a convenient, flexible, and affordable way to get to know Brighton’s best sights, making it a practical choice for most visitors seeking an overview combined with local transport perks.