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Looking for a fun seaside escape? Join us for a vibrant day trip to Brighton!
About Brighton
Brighton is one of the UK’s most popular seaside cities, known for its lively atmosphere, diverse culture, and iconic beachfront. Just a short journey from London, it blends historic charm with modern creativity. From quirky independent shops to beautiful green spaces and cultural landmarks, it’s a perfect destination for a relaxed yet exciting day out.
What to expect on the day:
Pre-paid visit to Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Enjoy a special group visit to Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, set in the beautiful Royal Pavilion Gardens. Wander through galleries spanning contemporary fashion, fine art, and fascinating artefacts from cultures across the globe. The highlight this season is the internationally acclaimed Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition: over 100 breathtaking images that draw you into hidden corners of the natural world, from tender animal portraits to vast, dramatic landscapes. Each photograph tells a powerful story about our planet, its fragility, its beauty, and the urgent call to protect it.
Whether you're a photography lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for an inspiring day out with your group, Brighton Museum delivers a truly memorable experience in the heart of one of Britain's most creative cities.
Explore the Royal Pavilion Gardens
Take a stroll through the Royal Pavilion Gardens and enjoy one of Britain's most jaw-dropping buildings. The Royal Pavilion began as a seaside retreat for the King George IV, who first visited Brighton in 1783. What started as a simple farmhouse was transformed into something truly extraordinary: a palace with palm-tree columns, Chinese dragons, exotic minarets and onion domes that looks almost too fantastic to be real.
Surrounded by the striking Royal Pavilion, this green space is perfect for relaxing, taking photos, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Hit the Beach
One of the UK’s most famous stretches of seaside, Brighton Beach is a pebbly beach with blue water and a 4-mile promenade that buzzes with life in all seasons. The beach is alive with cafes, street food, and ice cream spots to keep you fuelled all day. And no trip to Brighton is complete without grabbing some fresh fish and chips — a true British classic, best enjoyed with a beach view.
Free time to explore
You’ll have plenty of time to explore Brighton in your own way. Wander through The Lanes, a maze of narrow streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and vintage treasures. Head to the beach to enjoy the seaside views or visit the famous Upside-Down House for a fun and unique photo experience.
There are many attractions within walking distance, so whether you’re interested in shopping, sightseeing, or just relaxing by the sea, Brighton offers something for everyone.
Itinerary
Saturday 6th June 2026
08.00 Meet at Student Centre UCL, 27-28 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0AW, outside the building for a private UCL coach transfer
10:30 Estimated arrival in Brighton
Free time to explore Brighton, including beach, The Lanes, up-side down house, and the Royal Pavilion Gardens.
13:00 Bring your lunch and enjoy together in Royal Pavilion Gardens
14:00 Tour of the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
17:40 Meet for departure in Brighton
20:00 Estimated arrival at Student Centre UCL, 27-28 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0AW
About the Discover the UK Visits programme
The Students’ Union’s Discover the UK visits programme has been designed to provide you with easy and low-cost opportunities to explore the UK. Our ambition is to enable you to see the best of British heritage and culture, whilst providing you with the opportunity to make new friends, helping you to create lasting memories during your time at UCL.
“I love the uncomfortable tour and found it really insightful. Also thank you for letting us take the UCL teddy bear for this adventure day out!” - student who attended the Oxford trip
"I was alone on this trip but everyone made me feel welcome and I had a great time!" - student who attended the Bath trip
"All pre-planned visiting spots were amazing and having the free time to explore the town was excellent." - student who attended the Cambridge trip
FAQ
What is included in my ticket?
- Private UCL coach travel to and from Brighton
- Pre-paid tour of Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
How long will we be in Brighton for? 10:30 -18:00.
Where is the departure and when should I arrive at the departure point? We will all meet at 08:00am outside Student Centre UCL, 27-28 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0AW.
What should I bring along on the trip? As the weather in the UK can be unpredictable, we advise you to wear appropriate clothing in case of rainy and cold or warm weather. Comfortable footwear is recommended, as you'll be walking and exploring throughout the day. Food is not provided on the trips, however, you are more than welcome to bring along packed lunches or to purchase refreshments at your destination.
Are tickets refundable or transferable? No.
Please note that no money can be refunded if you do not show up on the day of the trip or are late and miss the coach.
The Union and staff cannot be held responsible for any damage, loss or injury sustained by participants on Discover the UK trips.
Please note that by signing up for this trip, you are agreeing to follow the code of conduct and are aware of the bullying and harassment policy.
Student Participation Fund
If you’re interested in joining the day trip to Brighton but need some financial assistance, the Participation Fund might be able to help. You can apply for support three weeks before the trip date through this contact form. Please let us know as soon as possible if you apply so we can put a ticket on hold for you.
Wheelchair accessible
No
If you have any accessibility needs please let us know when buying your ticket.
Family friendly
No
If you have any accessibility needs please let us know when buying your ticket.