About the Brighton, England Program

The Brighton program is a USAC partnership program. Learn more about on-site program elements and the city itself below.

• On-site Staff
• Host University
• Living Accommodations
• Passport and Visa

About Brighton

• Population: approx. 618,000
• Distance from London: 46 miles
• Distance from Paris: 175 miles

Brighton, located on the southern coast of England, was developed as a holiday resort and spa city in the early nineteenth century. Today it is a hub of activity year-round, with a lively bohemian feel. It's more than just a university town; its European atmosphere attracts all kinds of people with an enduring affection for the city, its community, and its quirks. Brighton is conveniently located only 30 minutes from London’s Gatwick airport and 30 minutes from Newhaven, which has ferry crossings to France.

Brighton's fame started with the building of the Royal Pavilion, an enormous pleasure palace located in the city centre where the Prince Regent George IV would entertain friends and host parties. Surrounded by gardens, the area still attracts tourists and locals alike. Although most tourists never look further than the Palace Pier and the Royal Pavilion, students will find a lively alternative scene in Brighton. The city’s wide array of markets, stores, boutiques, whole food shops, open-air cafés, and buskers (street musicians) make this alternative culture a must-see. A wide variety of entertainment is also available in the evenings. Fringe theatre companies often perform, and many West End shows hit the Theatre Royal before London. Café society is alive and well in Brighton. There are dozens of places to spend the afternoon enjoying coffee and cake, having an intimate chat, or watching the world go by. If sitting in a café isn’t your style, you can always stroll the boardwalk and the rocky beach after eating locally caught fish and chips.