Looking for a quaint weekend escape? With pebbly shores, mindful pottery and sensational seafood, Brighton is a premier refuelling stop for mind, body and soul.

SATURDAY

CHANGING LANES

After our Saturday arrival in sunny (but windy) Brighton, we head to local brunch haunt Lost in the Lanes to fill our bellies and fuel our minds with Salt Beef Hash with new potatoes, kale, dill pickles and poached eggs. We then take a jaunt through the famous Lanes and North Laines. Overflowing with quirky vintage shops and small eateries that frame Brighton’s artisan culture perfectly, you can pick up an old-school denim jacket or unusual piece of home decor.

SEASIDE SLUMBER

After a couple of hours meandering through the maze-like alleyways, we check into the beachfront Harbour Hotel and Spa, offering stunning views out over the English Channel and across Brighton Pier. The complimentary gin and sherry in every room is delightful, and access to the subterranean spa & gym, featuring an indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room and Scandinavian hot tubs, it’s easy to relax before heading out for even more food.

CATCH OF THE DAY

With seafood to die for, The Salt Room is a must visit restaurant, pitched perfectly behind the pebbly seafront. The half- dozen Carlingford oysters are a top recommendation. Order from a seasonally curated menu of fresh fish, meat and specials, and to follow, indulge in the show-stopping Taste of the Pier dessert featuring “pebbles”, doughnuts, fudge, candy floss, and other sweet treats for the ultimate mini-break win. Booking is essential.

SUNDAY

MINDFUL MOULDING

After Sunday’s breakfast at the hotel, we head to Art Shop and Pottery on Western Road for a spot of mindful creativity. Taught by the friendly potter, Adam Campbell, learn the basics of throwing and create your own rather professional-looking bowl. It’s a surprisingly mindful practice, demanding the mind, body and breath work together in perfect harmony. Creating these little bowls is one of the most relaxing experiences you’ll have had in a long time.

HUMBLING HEIGHTS

Although not loved by the locals, a journey up into the sky in the British Airways i360 is the perfect way to see across Brighton and Hove on a clear, sunny day. Enjoy the ascent a cocktail or glass of bubbly on your way up, with 360-degree views and an audio guide to the landmarks. On a good day, you can see the Isle of Wight from the summit, offering some much-needed perspective.

FIT FOR A KING

Before heading home, pay a visit to the eclectic, dazzling and, frankly, bizarre Royal Pavilion. Once home and party pad to King George IV, the exotic palace is full of colour and life, with interior decoration taking inspiration from Asian culture. Think colourful carpets, dragons a plenty and intricate wallpaper. Now open to the public, this expansive building prompts gasps and the flow of creative juices.