Unveiling the Secrets of Britain’s Most Exotic Palace – The Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is a former royal residence located in the heart of Brighton. It is a fascinating example of Regency architecture and design. It was built in stages between 1787 and 1823 as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales (later King George IV), who was known for his flamboyant tastes and love of all things luxurious.

The palace’s exterior is one of its most striking features, with its domes and minarets inspired by Indian Mughal architecture. The elaborate facade contrasts sharply with the traditional British seaside town around it – this contrast only adds to the building’s unique charm.

One can enter through several entrances into different parts of the palace. The entrance hall leads visitors into an impressive staircase which features hand-painted murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology by artist William Wilkins. From here visitors are led up to various rooms that showcase both Western and Eastern influences in their designs.

One such room is the Banqueting Room which is considered one of the finest examples of Chinese-inspired interior decoration outside China itself! This room measures 37 meters long by nearly ten meters wide so it can accommodate large banquets or balls. Its centerpiece is a magnificent dragon chandelier made from gilded wood and copper that hangs over a dining table surrounded by ornate chairs upholstered in silk brocade fabrics.

Another notable space within the pavilion is the Music Room which boasts stunning interiors richly decorated with gold leafing on walls adorned with exotic birds painted onto wallpaper imported from China during construction time period; this creates an atmosphere that transports you far away from England altogether! One cannot help but marvel at how thoughtfully every detail has been designed keeping even acoustics into consideration making it perfect for musical performances or recitals still held today.

Throughout these opulent spaces there are many other interesting details worth noting including intricate plaster-work patterns on ceilings, exquisite furniture pieces, and beautiful paintings by renowned artists such as Henry Fuseli and Joshua Reynolds.

The palace also has extensive gardens that are open to the public. These include a formal garden filled with exotic plants, a picturesque lake complete with swans and ducks, and various charming pathways lined with trees. It’s easy to spend an afternoon strolling around these idyllic gardens – a perfect way to unwind after exploring the opulent interiors of the palace itself!

In addition to its architectural beauty, The Royal Pavilion also offers visitors insight into Georgian-era life in England. During their visit guests can take part in guided tours or audio-guides which offer more information about the building’s history as well as stories about its former residents.

Overall, The Royal Pavilion is one of Brighton’s must-see attractions for anyone interested in architecture, design or history! Its unique blend of Western and Eastern influences make it truly spectacular – not just within England but internationally too!

The palace’s exterior features Indian-inspired domes and minarets which are set against a backdrop of beautiful gardens. Inside, visitors can explore opulent rooms decorated with dazzling chandeliers, silk draperies, and ornate furniture that reflect the eclectic style of its regal owner.

An interesting story about the Royal Pavilion that many people may not be aware of.

During World War II, when Brighton was being heavily bombed by the German Luftwaffe, the Royal Pavilion was used as a makeshift hospital to treat wounded soldiers.
One day in 1940, while bombs were raining down on Brighton and causing widespread destruction, a group of nurses who were working at the pavilion decided to take shelter in one of its underground tunnels. To their surprise and delight, they discovered that this tunnel contained a secret bar!
Apparently, during peacetime, this area had been used as a wine cellar for King George IV’s personal collection. But during WWII it became something of a hidden refuge for staff members seeking respite from the chaos outside.
The nurses reportedly spent several hours enjoying drinks and socializing with other staff members before being interrupted by an air-raid siren signalling that it was safe to come out again. It’s unknown how long this secret bar remained open, or if anyone else ever stumbled upon it during their time at the Royal Pavilion.

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is truly a unique architectural gem that beautifully blends Indian and Islamic design elements with traditional British architecture. Its rich history cultural significance make it an important landmark for both locals to tourists alike – visitors can explore this magnificent building’s fascinating past while enjoying breathtaking beauty today through an unforgettable visit, one of England’s most iconic landmarks.

Here are some more things you can see within walking distance of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton:

- Churchill Square: This is a popular shopping centre located just a few blocks from the Royal Pavilion. It features many high street shops, cafés and restaurants.
- North Laine: This area is known for its Bohemian vibe and independent shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
- St. Peter’s Church: This historic church is located near the North Laine and dates back to the 19th century. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and an impressive clock tower.
- Brighton Dome: Located next to the Royal Pavilion, this venue hosts concerts, theatre performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.
- The Open Market: A bustling indoor market featuring stalls selling fresh produce, jewellery, books, music and much more.

Brighton and Hove football stadium

The Amex

New Brighton and Hove football stadium also called American Express Community Stadium, or The Amex, is a football stadium near the village of Falmer in Brighton. The stadium was designed by London-based Architects, KSS. It is £92 million purpose built home of Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club.

The stadium is set three storeys down into the ground. 138,000 cubic metres of chalk was excavated for stadiums construction. Construction officially started on 17 December 2008 and finished in May 2011. The West Stand is the largest three-tiered stand, which holds 11,833 fans, including 14 luxury boxes and the premium fans’ 1901 Club. The East Stand also known as The Family Stand holds 5,404 fans, with 10% reserved for away

fans during cup games. The North Stand has 2,688 seats and is occupied by many of the club’s more passionate fans. The South Stand, is for visiting away supporters which contains 2,575 seats.
The stadium is close to the A27 Brighton by-pass connecting it northbound to the A23 and M23 motorway towards London and southbound to the A270 and the city centre. There is pre-paid parking available for 2000 cars on the University of Sussex and the Falmer Academy sites. The club runs several park and ride services to the stadium. First one is at Mill Road situated at the A23/A27 intersection, which holds 500 cars. Second one is at Brighton Racecourse, holding approximately 700 cars. The third site is at Mithras House at Brighton University on the Lewes Road, holding approximately 300 cars. Match tickets come with travel vouchers valid for train, bus, and park and ride. The stadium is close to Falmer railway station.

Albion fans can now get an exclusive behind-the-scenes view of the club’s new home by booking on a guided tour of the Amex. The tours will run on Thursdays and are taking about two hours. Tour starts in the West Stand reception and incorporate the hospitality lounges, art displays in the North, East, West Upper and West Lower concourses, the changing complex and dug outs.
Prices are £10 for adults, £5 for over 65s and under 18s. For community groups, schools or sports clubs there are cheaper tickets available and tour is every Thursday at 10:00, 14:00 and 18:00. Disabled customers are entitled to a free carers pass . Large group tours can be arranged at a day and time to suit, subject to tour guides’ availability. Because of popular demand from Thursday 1st December the club will be introducing an additional public tour on Thursdays at 10.00, 13:00, 15:00 and 18:00.

There is about 5 football matches in a month. The AMEX aims to be licensed to host weddings from July and wedding fairs. Couple of weeks ago there was Move or Improve event and Baby Expo. There will be a lot of coming events, concerts and Christmas parties. On 1st and 2nd of July 2012 will AMEX turn into big music venue as Fatboy Slim is coming to perform. The Stadium is the most exciting new venue on the South Coast.

Brighton Toy and Model Museum

Brighton Museum of toys with history

Brighton Toy and Model Museum is located underneath the forecourt of Brighton Railway Station. In the museum, you can see classic Bavarian Shop and miniatures from 1910, the best display of Hornby ‘O’ gauge trains 1920-1956, dolls and miniatures displaying traditional Japanese culture, amazing variety of soft toys from Edwardian days onwards, practical construction experience for the young 1910 -1980, toys from 1950, unique SPOT-ON collection of die-cast vehicle exhibits including Corgi, Dinky and Budgie.

Contact details:

Address: 52-55 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, BN1 4EB.
Telephone : 07273 749494
Email: info@brightontoymuseum.co.uk

Opening hours:

Tuesday – Friday 10:00 – 17:00
Saturday – 11:00 – 17:00

Admission Prices:

Adult – £4:00
Child/Student/Disabled – £3.00
Family of 2 Adults+2 Children (4+) – £12.00

Brighton Toy and Model Museum is a lovely place to visit any time of the year.

Here are some more things you can see within walking distance of the Brighton Toy and Model Museum:

- Churchill Square Shopping Centre: This is a popular shopping centre located just a few blocks from the museum. It features many high street shops, cafés and restaurants.
- North Laine: This area is known for its Bohemian vibe and independent shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
- St. Peter’s Church: This historic church is located near the North Laine and dates back to the 19th century. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and an impressive clock tower.
- Brighton Dome: Located next to the Royal Pavilion, this venue hosts concerts, theatre performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.
- The Open Market: A bustling indoor market featuring stalls selling fresh produce, jewellery, books, music and much more.