The South of the UK is home to some glorious stretches of coastline, with Insta-worthy beaches and quaint seaside towns worth visiting any time of year. No car? No problem. Hop on a South Western Railway train to begin your coastal adventure.
Two destinations that are perfect for seaside staycations are Portsmouth and Brighton. They’re uniquely charming, with plenty to see and do – but which is best for budgets? In our guide, we’ll be comparing things to do in the two seaside towns to see which comes out cheapest.
Please note: all prices were correct as of May 2024. Prices are subject to change, please check websites for more information.
We hope you’ve got a head for heights – Spinnaker Tower stands at 170 metres! The magnificent tower is shaped like a sail and offers stunning 23-mile views across the city and the harbour.
Pay a visit to the house where legendary writer Charles Dickens was born. Explore the life of this great author through displays around the house. Visit the rooms he grew up in, with delightful original and restored furnishings and decorations. Plus, get 20% off entry when you travel by train thanks to SWR Rewards.
Dive into an underwater safari and see what you can spot in the murky depths. Blue Reef Aquarium is home to wonderful and wacky fish, from the Nemo-looking clownfish to the adorable axolotls.
Blue Reef Aquarium prices
Adults (13+ years)
£14.35
Children (3 - 12 years)
£11.10
Senior (65+ years)
£13.35
Under 2s
Free
The best outdoor attractions in Portsmouth
Being the coastal city that it is, Portsmouth offers lots to do in the great outdoors. Here are some of our top picks:
Southsea Beach
Portsmouth, PO4 0SP
Come rain or shine, paddles in the sea are what British seaside holidays are all about, and this long stretch of shingle beach is perfect for just that. Connecting Old Portsmouth to Eastney, it’s the ideal place for a waterside stroll. There’s also a traditional seaside pier – South Parade Pier, which offers an arcade, fairground rides and plenty of fun for all the family.
Gunwharf Quays is a designer outlet on Portsmouth’s scenic waterfront. Browse high-end goods at bargain prices, with over 90 stores ranging from Adidas to Balmain. There is also a bowling alley, cinema and casino in the centre, plus a wide range of delicious eateries.
A boat trip is the best way to enjoy Portsmouth’s iconic harbour. Head to the south side of the Marina, where you’ll find Portsmouth Harbour Tours. From there, you’ll cruise around Portsmouth Harbour and Naval Dockyard, with views of the quays and ships, including the modern Royal Navy.
Portsmouth Harbour Tours prices
Adults (15+ years)
£12.00
Children (5 - 14 years)
£7.50
Under 4s
Free
Where to eat and drink on a budget in Portsmouth
You’re sure to get hungry at some point along your trip, and luckily, Portsmouth has some great eateries to choose from:
With seagulls and ice cream galore, Brighton probably comes to mind when you picture a traditional British seaside holiday. From glorious beaches to fascinating museums, let’s see how Brighton compares to Portsmouth regarding cost.
The best indoor attractions in Brighton
Are you looking for things to do indoors in Brighton? These activities are perfect all year round.
Brighton Royal Pavilion is one of Brighton’s most famous buildings, attracting sightseers and architecture enthusiasts year-round. This Grade I listed palace is adorned with gold dragon decorations and plenty of grandeur, plus beautiful gardens ideal for a stroll.
Aquariums always make for a great rainy-day activity, and Brighton’s SEA LIFE doesn’t disappoint. The world’s oldest aquarium, you’ll find a variety of underwater creatures here, from stingrays to turtles.
SEA LIFE prices
Adults (15+ years)
£23.50
Children (3 - 14 years)
£20.00
Under 2s
Free
The best outdoor attractions in Brighton
Head outside and check out some of these top outdoor attractions in Brighton. They’re good fun no matter the time of year:
Brighton Beach
4 Madeira Dr, Brighton BN2 1ET
Brighton Beach is one of the most popular British beaches, particularly during warmer weather. The shingle beach stretches four miles and is ideal for a paddle or sunbathing. There’s also lots to enjoy on the seafront, from the nostalgic Brighton Palace Pier to numerous ice cream shops dotted around the area.
Brighton Marina is a bustling activity hub centred around a busy yacht harbour. Check out the shops, bars and restaurants in the area, or stroll through and admire the boats moored there.
There’s something about a boat trip that makes you feel like you’re abroad, and Brighton Prestige offers various tours. Their Harbour, Pier, and i360 trip whisk you down the coastline, passing some of the city’s famous sights along the way.
Brighton Prestige prices: The Harbour, Pier, and i360 trip cost £15.00 per person
Where to eat and drink on a budget in Brighton
Feeling peckish? Head to one of these delicious eateries in Brighton:
