Kings Road, Brighton
Rugged-up against the weather, pedestrians make the best of a break in the rain.
Rumour has it that Great Britain has experienced a true summer this last July. This “heatwave” has health professionals worried, while other Britons head to the beach to bask.
Of course, it isn’t usually so. Last July, when we visited Brighton Beach for two days, the weather – rain and black clouds with intermittent sunshine – was probably more typical of an “average” British summer.
Naturally, if you only have a day or so to visit a place, you take the weather as it comes! But, while Brighton has been known as a health resort for sea bathing since the 18th century, and became a popular day-trip destination for Londoners with the arrival of the railway in 1841, it really wasn’t turning the beach weather on for us.
West Pier
Built in 1866 and abandoned in 1975, the ruins of the West Pier sit against threatening black clouds. Hardy Britons enjoy the waterfront regardless.
Hot Fish
No matter what the weather – it is always time for fresh fish and chips!
Beach Ball and Chain?
Brighton’s waterfront is reflected in a large disco ball.
On the Pier
Protected from the elements by raincoats and umbrellas, tourists venture out onto the famous pier.
Look to the Surf…
Bodyboarders defy the cold Atlantic to catch a few “waves”.
Tarot and Rain
“I see showers in your future.”
Rain and Lace
Built between 1891 and 1899, the Brighton Marine Palace and Pier, as it is officially called, features some wonderful wrought iron work.
The Brighton Wheel
Not too many takers on this day; the carriages all appear to be empty.
Dress Shop
Taking refuge in quaint stores is one way to escape the climate.
The Royal Pavilion
Built in the Indo-Saracenic style popular in colonial India in the 19th century, the Brighton Pavilion was a royal retreat for George, Prince of Wales, later King George IV, from 1787 onwards.
Playing the Crowd
During a brief respite from the rain, people wander through the Royal Pavilion grounds.
Clarinet and Bubbles
Like magical musical notes, bubbles float on the air while the clarinetist plays on.
Brighton Street
The next day, the weather was much improved…
Brighton Beach
… but black clouds still loomed over the rocky, shingle beach.
Beach Chairs
Canvas chairs sit empty.
Rust and Ruin
Old boats and bits of machinery are out-door parts of the Brighton Fishing Museum.
Cockles and Lobster Tail
Cups of fresh seafood are available from the fridge…
Smokehouse Door
… or you can buy something from one of the many shops in the converted row of Victorian fishermen’s workshops.
Punch
Originally the Italian Pulcinella, Punch (with Judy and a cast of characters) became synonymous with beach entertainment.
Fish Nets and Crab Traps
The Brighton Fishing Museum is dedicated to all things maritime.
Carousel
Pigs!
Shop keepers, trusting the rain would hold off, moved their wares out of doors.
Royal Pavilion
After walking the distance between the two piers, we couldn’t resist returning to see what the Royal Pavilion looked like in better weather …
Domes and Minarets
… and it is lovely …
Brighton Royal Palace Gardens
… but, as dark clouds rolled in again, we decided it was best to leave!
We escaped back to our vehicle – umbrellas hoisted – as the raindrops started to fall..
I hope this year’s visitors realise how lucky they are to have genuine summer, beach weather.
Happy Travels!
Pictures: 14-15July2012
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