This post was written by Areesha, aged 15, who entered our Young Persons’ Writing Competition 2019.
For those seeking a taste of an authentic English town, Brighton appears to be the perfect choice.
This seaside town oozes with charm, encapsulating travellers with its array of different attractions, ranging from its iconic pebble beach to the fascinating historical parts of the town.
A particular favourite for tourists (and me!) is the lanes. These are cobbled streets which are fringed with enchanting shops, each one brimming with treasures looking like they’ve come straight from Hogwarts.
The picturesque town of Brighton caters for all- quite literally. The choice of foods presented to me on my visit left me awed, having a huge variety of food to choose from (a dilemma I was delighted to be in.) I eventually opted to eat at ‘Bardsley’s fish & chips’ -I think we can all agree there’s just something different about eating fish and chips by the sea. The food choices didn’t end here, with the seaside town being liberally sprinkled with a variety of different ice cream shops. I can confidently say that no shop has exactly the same flavours, with each one bursting with individuality. A popular choice, enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike, is ‘Boho Gelato’, which dazzles customers with their homemade gelato and ice cream, producing unique flavours, including the likes of chocolate rose and lavender. When visiting this highly praised shop, I was even more impressed to discover that some of the flavours were vegan, providing more diverse options, so everyone gets the opportunity to enjoy these unique ice creams which gush with flavour.
Those intrigued with the more historical aspects of the town may visit the Royal Pavilion; this was originally built as a seaside palace for King George IV in the early 19th century. This enthralling palace seems like it fell straight out of a Jane Austen novel. Here you can admire the unique layout of the palace, and marvel at the influence that other countries, such as India and China, had on this exotic palace. The unique design of the palace truly gives you the sensation of being in another country, bringing with it a refreshing feeling of experiencing something new as you explore the clash of cultures displayed here.
For those looking to gain both insight into the town’s history and have fun are presented with the idealistic gift of Brighton Pier. This infamous pier has battered through two world wars, and still manages to entice people in, with the vivid colours of the pier seeming to vibrate with the very essence of life. This historical pier has the effect of reducing everyone to the state of a giddy child, striking you with its range of different attractions, ranging from fairground classics like the carousel, to rides for those more thrill seeking, like the Turbo coaster. Visitors get an unforgettable day akin to one snatched straight from a movie, devouring clouds of candy floss whilst indulging in a game or two of classic arcade games.
As if this captivating town hasn’t supplied enough adventure, there are even some museums to visit, which are ideal to visit while cooling down from the excitement of the day. These range from the toy and model museum, to the Brighton fishing museum. A particular favourite of mine is the Brighton museum and art gallery, which can be found in the Royal Pavilion garden. Visitors are left wonderstruck as they explore years of history of this surprisingly enigmatic town, being stirred by art donated by the Royal Pavilion’s original owner, King George IV.
Finally, a trip to Brighton would definitely not be complete without a visit to the beach. Muted pebbles line the ground, a stark contrast to the azure of the sea. Prepare to be soothed by the gentle lull of the waves, like you’ve just walked into a live action meditation app. Experience a symphony of sounds, as the shrieking of spirited children merges with the squawk of seagulls. A perfect place for families, prepare to be surrounded by phones at sunset, as the warm glow of the sun envelopes the beach, creating the perfect moment for teens to take a photo. Take a stroll down the beach, creating memories that will stimulate nostalgia for years to come when reminiscing of your trip to Brighton.
About the Author
Areesha, 15 years old.
Entrant- The Tourist Trail Young Persons’ Writing Competition 2019