For the many Middle East travellers visiting the UK this summer, Brighton is a destination not to be missed, according to a top official of VisitBritain, UK’s national tourism agency.

“Approximately one hour by train from London, Brighton is renowned for its seaside charm, boutique shopping and top eateries, offering unique experiences that the whole family can enjoy,” said Carol Maddison, UAE manager, VisitBritain.

London is always a favourite summer destination for Arab travellers, and with Brighton just a short journey away, it is easily accessible and offers many activities suited to the Middle East visitor, she said.

In recent years Brighton has become a food hotspot. Located on the South Coast of England, Brighton emerged as a health resort in 18th century and then became a popular day-tripper destination after the arrival of the railway in the 1840s, said a statement.

Around eight million visitors a year come to Brighton and Hove to take part in leisure activities and conferences. It is also home to a major food festival every September that attracts more than 110,000 visitors per year, it said.

“There is a strong café culture throughout Brighton and being situated along the coasts, Brighton also offers superb seafood,” said Adrian Bevan, a UK food and culture expert. “In addition, outside London it is best place for vegetarian food,” he added.

Some of Brighton’s best known restaurants, cafes and food shops include the award-winning Terre a Terre, which received the title of 'Best for Vegetarian' in the Observer Food Awards 2008 and continuously retains the prestigious AA Two Rosettes and Michelin: 'Bib Gourmand' awards, making the restaurant one of the best in the country.

English’s, famous for its seafood and oyster bar, counts among its guests Charlie Chaplin, Tony Blair, Charlton Heston, Vivien Leigh and Patrick Stewart. Other must-visit restaurants include Jamie’s Italian, part of Jamie Oliver’s hugely successful Italian restaurant chain and Bill’s Produce Store, boasting a cafe and produce store that offers catering, delivery, flowers, hampers, and fresh and organic fruit and vegetables.

Brighton also caters to the needs of shopaholics with funky fashions, chic boutiques, exclusive antiques, tempting jewellery and inspirational art. From the lifestyle shops of The Lanes to the unique shops of Hove; the retro chic of the North Laine to the big-name stores of Churchill Square and Brighton Marina, shopping in Brighton really is retail paradise.

For the adventure seeking visitors, Brighton beachfront offers a buzzing playground of swimming, sailing, basketball and volleyball, whilst away from the water visitors can enjoy walking and cycling activities on the South Downs and areas beyond Brighton.

By visiting www.visitbrighton.com, visitors can create their own itinerary using the itinerary planning tool, to ensure a truly memorable Brighton experience.-TradeArabia News Service