Brighton is a popular seaside city just 30 minutes south of Gatwick by train, making it an ideal layover destination.
About Brighton
The city's famous seafront features the restored Victorian Brighton Palace Pier with its fairground rides and arcade games, the remains of the burned-out West Pier silhouetted against the horizon, and the British Airways i360 observation tower offering 360-degree views of the coastline. The beachfront arches house independent bars, cafés, and the Brighton Fishing Museum.
Behind the seafront, The Lanes — a maze of narrow medieval streets — offer antique shops, jewelry stores, and cozy restaurants, while the adjacent North Laine (note the different spelling) bursts with vintage clothing shops, independent record stores, street art, and plant-based cafés that reflect Brighton's status as one of the UK's most creative and alternative cities.
Nearby Landmarks
Transport Options
Quick Comparison
| Option | Cost | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | $50-$65 | 35-45 minutes | Convenience, groups, heavy luggage |
| Rideshare | $40-$55 | 35-45 minutes | Budget-conscious, app users |
| Train | $12 | 30 minutes | Budget, avoiding traffic |
Good to Know
Late Night Transport
The last train from Gatwick to Brighton departs around 1:00 AM. Late-night trains run less frequently (hourly). National Express coaches also connect Gatwick to Brighton with limited night services. Taxis from Gatwick to Brighton cost approximately £45-55 and take 35-45 minutes. Brighton itself has excellent late-night taxi services and a nightlife scene that runs until the early hours.
Luggage Tips
Trains from Gatwick to Brighton have overhead and vestibule luggage areas. Brighton station has luggage storage lockers near the entrance (from £6 per day). The walk from Brighton station to the seafront is downhill and takes about 10 minutes, but The Lanes have narrow, pedestrianized streets that are tricky with large bags. Most hotels offer luggage storage before check-in.
Accessibility
Gatwick to Brighton trains are wheelchair accessible with ramps available from station staff. Brighton station has step-free access via lifts. The seafront promenade is flat and wheelchair-friendly along its entire length. The Royal Pavilion has ground-floor wheelchair access. The Lanes are mostly flat but narrow. Brighton buses are wheelchair accessible and cover the entire city.