When the holiday break arrives and you’re searching for exciting family activities in Brighton, finding the perfect balance between keeping everyone entertained and creating lasting memories can feel like a challenge. Whether you’re a local family or visiting Brighton Marina, North Laine, or the seafront areas, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to fun activities in Brighton that will delight children aged 6 to 16 and their parents alike.
Brighton offers a brilliant mix of indoor and outdoor adventures perfect for families looking to make the most of their time together. From high-tech gaming experiences to traditional seaside fun, there’s something to suit every family’s interests and energy levels. We understand that planning activities that appeal to different age groups whilst staying within budget requires careful consideration, which is why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the best family activities Brighton has to offer this holiday season.
1. Experience Award-Winning Virtual Golf and Interactive Gaming at vGolf Brighton
Located at the heart of Brighton Marina Village, vGolf Brighton offers families an exceptional indoor entertainment experience that combines cutting-edge technology with classic fun. Our award-winning GolfZon golf simulator provides an immersive golfing experience that appeals to both beginners and experienced players, making it perfect for multi-generational family fun.
What makes our venue particularly special for families is the variety of activities available under one roof. Beyond the golf simulator with its hydraulic moving floor technology that adjusts to your lie, we offer an extensive games room featuring augmented reality darts, shuffle games, beer pong (with soft drinks options for younger players), American pool, and table tennis. These interactive games for groups ensure that whether your children prefer high-tech AR experiences or traditional table games, everyone finds something they love.
Our venue at 8&9 The Waterfront provides free parking for up to four hours in the nearby multi-storey car park, making it convenient for families arriving by car. We’ve designed our space to be welcoming and accessible, with our friendly staff always ready to explain the rules and help families get started with their chosen activities. For larger family gatherings or special celebrations, our VIP room offers exclusive hire options with bespoke packages available for groups of 12 or more.
The beauty of indoor activities in Brighton like those at vGolf is that weather never spoils your plans. Rain or shine, you can enjoy hours of entertainment whilst staying comfortable and dry. We also partner with Pizza Express to provide food options, meaning families can make a complete day of their visit without needing to venture elsewhere for meals.
2. Explore Brighton’s Iconic Beaches and Watersports
Brighton’s stunning coastline offers endless opportunities for family fun, particularly during warmer holiday periods. The famous pebble beach stretching from Brighton Marina to Hove provides the perfect backdrop for traditional seaside activities that cost nothing but create priceless memories. Stone skimming, paddling in the shallows, and building pebble sculptures are timeless activities that children of all ages enjoy.
For families seeking more adventurous fun things to do this weekend, Brighton’s beaches host numerous watersports facilities. Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking lessons are available at various points along the seafront, with equipment hire and beginner-friendly sessions designed specifically for families. Hove Lagoon offers calmer waters ideal for younger children learning watersports, whilst more confident swimmers might enjoy the open water experiences available from Brighton beach itself.
The beach also provides natural learning opportunities, with rockpooling at Black Rock revealing fascinating marine life during low tide. These free activities in Brighton connect children with nature whilst providing educational value that extends beyond the classroom. Remember to check tide times and weather conditions through the official Brighton weather forecast before planning your beach day.
During summer months, the beach becomes even more vibrant with volleyball courts, outdoor fitness equipment, and the famous Brighton Zipline near the Palace Pier offering thrilling experiences for older children and teenagers. The seafront’s wide promenade also provides excellent cycling and scooting opportunities, with bike hire available at multiple locations along the route.
3. Discover Brighton’s Parks and Outdoor Play Areas
Brighton and Hove boast over 50 playgrounds and numerous parks, offering fantastic free activities in Brighton for families. The city’s extensive network of green spaces provides perfect locations for picnics, outdoor games, and letting children burn off energy in safe, well-maintained environments.
The Level, located between London Road and the city centre, features one of Brighton’s most popular playgrounds alongside a skate park and splash fountains that operate during warmer months. This central location makes it easily accessible for families staying anywhere in the city, and the variety of equipment caters to different age groups simultaneously.
Queens Park and Hove Park offer larger playground facilities with extensive climbing frames, swings, and recently refurbished equipment designed to challenge and entertain children from toddlers to teenagers. These parks also feature wide open spaces perfect for family football matches, frisbee games, or simply spreading out a blanket for an afternoon picnic.
For families seeking more adventurous outdoor experiences, Stanmer Park on the outskirts of Brighton provides woodland walks, mountain biking trails, and nature discovery opportunities. The park’s rural setting offers a complete contrast to Brighton’s urban environment, allowing families to experience the beauty of the South Downs whilst remaining close to the city’s amenities.
Preston Park Rock Garden and St Anne’s Well Gardens offer quieter alternatives for families preferring peaceful surroundings. These hidden gems provide beautiful settings for nature walks, bird watching, and introducing younger children to local wildlife in calm, manageable environments.
4. Enjoy Classic Arcade Fun and Modern Gaming Experiences
Brighton’s entertainment scene brilliantly combines traditional seaside amusements with cutting-edge gaming technology. Palace Pier remains an iconic destination for families, offering classic arcade games, fairground rides, and that nostalgic seaside atmosphere that makes activities in Brighton so special. Wristband deals provide excellent value for families planning to spend several hours enjoying the rides and attractions.
For a modern twist on gaming entertainment, venues across Brighton offer unique experiences that appeal to the digital generation. Laser tag centres provide high-energy fun for groups, whilst glow-in-the-dark mini golf creates a magical atmosphere that younger children particularly enjoy. These Brighton indoor activities ensure that even during unpredictable weather, families have exciting options available.
Board game cafés have become increasingly popular as fun activities Brighton families can enjoy together. These venues combine refreshments with extensive game libraries, encouraging face-to-face interaction and strategic thinking whilst providing a relaxed atmosphere where families can spend quality time together without screen distractions.
At vGolf Brighton, we bridge the gap between traditional and modern gaming. Our augmented reality dart system represents the latest in interactive gaming technology, whilst our shuffle games and pool tables maintain that classic games room atmosphere. This combination ensures that whether your family prefers high-tech entertainment or traditional table games, everyone finds activities they enjoy.
5. Visit Educational Attractions and Museums
Brighton offers numerous educational attractions that make learning fun during the holiday break. The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery provides free admission and features fascinating exhibits that bring history, art, and culture to life for young minds. Interactive displays and family-friendly workshops ensure children remain engaged whilst absorbing valuable knowledge.
The SEA LIFE Brighton aquarium offers an underwater adventure that captivates children of all ages. Walking through the Victorian-era tunnel whilst sharks and rays glide overhead creates unforgettable memories, and the educational talks help children understand marine conservation’s importance. Pre-booking tickets online often provides significant savings for families.
For technology-minded children, exploring Brighton’s digital scene through coding workshops or virtual reality experiences at various venues provides both entertainment and skill development. These activities to do in Brighton combine fun with future-focused learning, potentially sparking interests that develop into passions or career paths.
Libraries throughout Brighton and Hove offer quiet spaces for reading and often host special holiday activities including storytelling sessions, craft workshops, and author visits. The Jubilee Children’s Library provides an especially welcoming environment for younger readers, with comfortable seating areas where families can enjoy stories together.
6. Plan a Brighton Marina Adventure Day
Brighton Marina offers a concentrated hub of family activities brighton visitors and locals alike can enjoy. Beyond the shopping and dining options, the Marina provides unique experiences that create lasting holiday memories. A simple stroll around the marina, watching the boats and enjoying ice cream, costs nothing whilst providing entertainment for all ages.
The Marina’s location makes it perfect for combining multiple activities in one day. Start with breakfast at one of the waterfront cafés, enjoy some time at vGolf Brighton’s interactive games, take a walk along the harbour walls to spot marine wildlife, and finish with a family meal whilst watching the sunset. This variety ensures that different family members’ preferences are accommodated throughout the day.
For adventurous families, boat trips departing from the Marina offer fishing experiences, wildlife watching tours, and coastal sightseeing adventures. These experiences provide unique perspectives of Brighton’s coastline whilst creating exciting memories that children will treasure long after the holiday ends.
The Marina’s proximity to Yellowave beach volleyball centre adds another dimension to your day out. Pre-booking courts ensures your family can enjoy this energetic activity, with coaching sessions available for complete beginners. The sandy courts provide a softer landing surface than traditional volleyball, making it ideal for younger players still developing their coordination.
Making the Most of Your Brighton Family Holiday
Planning successful family activities in Brighton requires considering everyone’s interests whilst managing practical considerations like weather, budgets, and energy levels. We recommend mixing active outdoor adventures with relaxed indoor activities to create balanced days that don’t leave anyone exhausted or bored.
Weather plays a significant role in activity planning, particularly during British holiday periods. Having backup indoor options ensures that unexpected rain doesn’t ruin your plans. Venues offering multiple activities under one roof, like vGolf Brighton, provide flexibility to adjust your day based on weather conditions and family mood.
Pre-booking popular attractions during peak holiday periods saves both time and money. Many venues offer online booking discounts, and securing your slots in advance prevents disappointment when attractions reach capacity. This is particularly important for interactive games for groups or specialised activities like our golf simulator sessions.
Consider your children’s ages and abilities when planning activities. Whilst teenagers might enjoy challenging vr games for groups or competitive sports, younger children often prefer simpler pleasures like playground visits or beach exploration. Mixing activities throughout your holiday ensures everyone gets opportunities to enjoy their preferences.
Transportation and parking considerations affect your day’s success. Brighton’s park-and-ride services, extensive bus network, and seafront bike hire options provide alternatives to driving into busy areas. However, venues with free parking, like the Marina’s multi-storey car park near vGolf Brighton, remove this stress from your planning.
Creating lasting memories doesn’t require spending fortunes. Many of Brighton’s best family experiences cost little or nothing. Combining free activities like park visits and beach time with paid attractions creates balanced holidays that don’t strain budgets whilst still providing variety and excitement.
Remember that holidays are about spending quality time together as a family. Whether you’re enjoying high-tech augmented reality games or building sandcastles on the beach, the shared experiences and laughter matter most. Brighton’s diverse activity options ensure that however your family prefers to spend time together, you’ll find perfect opportunities to create those special moments.
Conclusion
Brighton truly shines as a destination for family activities during the holiday break, offering an incredible variety of experiences that cater to every age, interest, and budget. From the cutting-edge technology of virtual golf simulators and ar darts brighton experiences to the timeless joy of seaside adventures and park explorations, our city provides endless opportunities for family fun.
We’ve explored how indoor venues like vGolf Brighton offer weather-proof entertainment combining traditional games with innovative technology, whilst Brighton’s natural attractions from beaches to parks provide free outdoor adventures. The mix of educational attractions, classic arcade entertainment, and unique Marina experiences ensures that every family finds their perfect holiday activities.
The key to a successful family holiday in Brighton lies in variety and flexibility. By combining different types of activities throughout your break, you’ll keep everyone engaged and create diverse memories that family members will cherish. Whether you’re locals looking for fun things to do at the weekend or visitors exploring our wonderful city, Brighton’s family-friendly attractions won’t disappoint.
As you plan your holiday activities, remember that the best family moments often come from simple shared experiences. Whether you’re conquering a challenging golf course on our simulator, splashing in the sea, or enjoying a peaceful park picnic, these moments together strengthen family bonds and create the stories you’ll retell for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age groups are suitable for vGolf Brighton’s activities?
Our activities cater brilliantly to families with children aged 6 to 16. The golf simulator offers adjustable difficulty levels making it accessible for beginners whilst challenging enough for experienced players. Our games room activities like shuffle games, pool, and table tennis are perfect for children who can handle equipment safely, typically from age 6 upwards. We welcome younger children with parental supervision, and our staff are always happy to suggest age-appropriate activities when you arrive.
How much should we budget for a day of family activities in Brighton?
Brighton offers activities across all budget ranges. Free activities include beach visits, park playgrounds, and museum entries. Mid-range activities like vGolf Brighton sessions, arcade visits, or mini golf typically cost £5-15 per person per activity. Premium experiences like boat trips or theme park visits might cost £20-40 per person. We recommend mixing free and paid activities throughout your holiday. At vGolf Brighton, we offer various packages and group rates for families, and you can check our current pricing and book online to plan your budget accurately.
What are the best rainy day activities for families in Brighton?
Brighton excels at indoor entertainment perfect for rainy days. vGolf Brighton provides hours of weather-proof fun with our golf simulator and games room all under one roof. Museums offer free educational entertainment, whilst swimming pools, soft play centres, and bowling alleys provide active alternatives. Shopping centres like Churchill Square include entertainment zones, and Brighton’s numerous cafés welcome families for extended stays with board games and colouring activities. Planning at least one indoor activity per day ensures weather never ruins your holiday plans.
Do we need to pre-book activities during school holidays?
Pre-booking is strongly recommended during peak holiday periods, particularly for popular activities with limited capacity. At vGolf Brighton, we encourage advance booking through our online system to secure your preferred time slots, especially for our moving floor golf bays which are allocated on a first-come basis. Many Brighton attractions offer online booking discounts, and securing spots in advance prevents disappointment. Free activities like beaches and parks don’t require booking, making them excellent backup options if other plans fall through.
Which Brighton areas are best for family activities?
Brighton Marina concentrates numerous family activities in one easily accessible location with free parking. The city centre around Churchill Square and North Laine offers shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The seafront from Brighton Pier to Hove Lawns provides beaches, playgrounds, and sports facilities. The Level and London Road areas offer excellent parks and family-friendly cafés. Each area has distinct character and attractions, so we recommend exploring different neighbourhoods throughout your holiday to experience Brighton’s full diversity.
Can vGolf Brighton accommodate large family groups or parties?
Absolutely! We specialise in accommodating family groups of all sizes. Our VIP room offers exclusive hire for larger gatherings, perfect for family celebrations or reunions. For groups of 12 or more, we provide bespoke packages tailored to your specific needs, combining golf simulator time with games room activities. Our experienced team assists with planning to ensure everyone enjoys activities suited to their interests and abilities. Contact our bookings team at bookings@vgolfbrighton.co.uk to discuss your group’s requirements and receive personalised recommendations.
Ready to Create Unforgettable Family Memories?
The holiday break provides precious opportunities to strengthen family bonds through shared adventures and new experiences. At vGolf Brighton, we’re passionate about providing the perfect environment for families to laugh, play, and compete together in a welcoming, state-of-the-art venue.
Don’t let another holiday pass without experiencing the excitement of our award-winning golf simulator, the thrill of augmented reality darts, and the classic fun of our games room. Whether you’re looking for an hour’s entertainment or planning to make a day of it with food and drinks in our comfortable surroundings, we’re ready to make your family’s holiday special.
Book Now, bring your friends and see what all the hype is about.
Reserve your family fun session today or email us at bookings@vgolfbrighton.co.uk for group bookings and special requests.
Your perfect family holiday activity awaits at vGolf Brighton, where traditional fun meets cutting-edge technology in the heart of Brighton Marina.