Free Historical Tour of Brighton

About the tour

Join us on our Free Historical Tour Of Brighton and discover how a tiny fishing village originally known as “Brighthelmstone” went on to become a metropolis by the sea and England’s most treasured seaside jewel.

Explore Brighton’s diverse architectural history, from the shimmering domes of the Royal Pavilion to the 13th and 14th century heart of the city known as “The Lanes,” and feel as if you’ve been transported back in time by strolling past its many famous sights. Hear how the Prince Regent helped put Brighton on the map during the 1780s after falling in love with the city’s thriving spa and sea-bathing culture, and how he eventually made Brighton his “dirty weekend” residence, far away from the scrutinizing eyes of the royal family in London.

Learn how Brighton’s enchanting history stretches even further back than its Regency era prime, from its Anglo-Saxon community during the 5th century, to the Norman invasions of the late 11th century, or even possible earlier Celtic and Roman settlements which have left little remains, much of Brighton’s history is shrouded in mystery and legend. Are there really sections of Brighton’s original streets hidden by the sea? And could there actually be an ancient stone circle underneath the present-day Old Steine? Join our tour and find out!

On our Free Historical Tour of Brighton you will journey through Brighton’s mysterious and colourful history, and learn about the city’s transformation from a medieval fishing village with a population of about 400, to an artistic and bohemian haven nicknamed as "London-By-The-Sea.”