In the run-up to Christmas, Brighton and Hove has been crowned the best English seaside town to visit over the festive period.

Despite the winter cold, the Christmas spirit is ignited by the twinkling lights, the aroma of mulled wine and pine trees, the sound of Christmas carols and cozy gatherings by the fire. It’s also the perfect time to bundle up and explore the bustling Christmas markets or take long winter walks along the seafront.

A study carried out by experts from Go outside revealed that Brighton and Hove ranked as the most festive city in England, scoring an impressive 9.38 on the Christmas adventure scale.

The survey took into account various festive factors, including Google searches for Christmas walks, number of bars and pubs per 1,000 population, Christmas market days, ice rinks and annual snowfall days means.

Brighton and Hove have overshadowed other beloved British cities such as Nottingham, Manchester and Whitby.

While many imagine bustling markets and snow-covered streets, Brighton offers a distinctive experience: a seaside journey adorned with lights, local flavors and invigorating winter landscapes.

The city’s vacation atmosphere is enhanced by a thriving culinary scene, with 4.17 restaurants per 1,000 residents, including local favorites like The Salt Room for seafood lovers and Terre à Terre for vegetarian feasts, reports The mirror.

One of the highlights of the holiday is the spellbinding Brighton Lights at One Garden Brighton, a spectacular light show which will be open to the public on the weekend of December 7-8, followed by a two-week run from December 11-8. December 23. You can stroll through a lighted path past a historic walled garden, the famous Stanmer Orchard and the beautifully lit Palm House.

Another festive tradition that attracts visitors is the Royal Pavilion’s open-air ice rink, which offers scintillating entertainment from October 26 to January 5, allowing visitors to skate with views of the iconic palace. The city is also renowned for its diverse nightlife, making it perfect for Christmas parties, cabaret nights, DJ events and much more.

With a vibrant music scene, the city attracts partygoers and music lovers from across the UK and beyond.

Christmas shopping in Brighton is a joy, with a variety of independent shops tucked away in the winding lanes of The Lanes and under the seafront arches.

For a more festive experience, visitors can explore the Christmas Market and Artist Open House events in Brighton, adding a creative touch to their holiday shopping.

The city also hosts unique traditions like Burn the Clocks, an annual event celebrating the winter solstice where participants carry hand-crafted lanterns in a procession that ends with them burning on the beach, symbolizing the return of the light.

The Brighton area is also known for its picturesque walking trails which reveal the beauty of the coast and the nearby South Downs.

Whether exploring steep cliff paths or strolling along a gentle coastal road, there are plenty of trails to enjoy Brighton’s unique winter charm.

During the winter months, the town attracts a slower pace and fewer crowds, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the ocean views and the sound of the waves – perfect for a peaceful Christmas getaway.