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Brighton

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1 Seaside attraction

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Brighton Pier (formerly the Palace Pier) opened in May 1899, replacing the Chain Pier that was used as a landing stage for cross-channel passenger ships. The 520-metre long, heritage-listed building still has some of the original kiosks and filigree ironwork arches, and a signal cannon from the original pier. But the peep-show machines, fire-eaters and jugglers have been replaced by dodgem cars, an amusement arcade and a roller-coaster. Open 364 days a year, the pier has a host of outlets that sell food you wouldn't dream of eating anywhere else (www.brightonpier.co.uk).

2 Marine life

Along the promenade to the east stands Brighton Marina (www.brightonmarina.co.uk), with 1,400 yacht berths, 863 residential properties and a host of other attractions. Opened in July 1978, at a cost of GBP50 million ($680 million), it took a while to establish itself but has enjoyed a revival in recent years, thanks to the completion of a boardwalk of restaurants overlooking the moorings. The marina features a superstore, cinema, bowling complex, casino and fitness centre. Those seeking a little more adventure can take one of the fishing or marine tours that head to the English Channel.

3 The Lanes

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Set back from the seafront, The Lanes are the site of the original fishing village of Bright-helmstone. The area is now a maze of mainly pedestrian alleys with antiques shops, restaurants and pubs. Before Brighton became a royal retreat The Lanes used to contain a market, monastic farm, poor house and fishermen's cottages, and many of the original buildings remain. In more recent times the area hosted Sir Laurence Olivier's stage debut and a Beatles performance.

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