The London to Brighton route (A23/A27, ~60 miles) is one of England's most iconic drives, yet few know that the A23 was originally a Roman road linking Londinium to the coast. The 1.4-mile-long Brighton bypass tunnel, opened in 1999, shortened travel time by 30 minutes. Today, the journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes without traffic. how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
| Route | Distance | Driving Time | Traffic |
|---|---|---|---|
| A23 London to Brighton | 60 miles | 1.5 hours | Heavy at peak times |
Natural Landscapes and Local Commerce
The route passes the South Downs National Park with rolling chalk hills. The Seven Sisters cliffs are a must-see. Brighton's Lanes offer antiques and independent shops.
- Stop at Devil's Dyke for panoramic views.
- Visit Brighton Palace Pier for seaside culture.
- Explore the Royal Pavilion (Indian-inspired architecture).
Road Safety, Family Stops, and Fatigue Management
The A23 has speed cameras and average speed checks. Rest stops at Pease Pottage Services near Gatwick. Family-friendly: Brighton Sealife Centre and i360.
- Rest: Pease Pottage (McDonald's, Costa, toilets).
- Family: Brighton Toy and Model Museum.
- Pets: Brighton Beach is dog-friendly year-round.
Fuel costs average £10-15 one-way. Budget parking in Brighton costs £10-20/day. The A23 is toll-free, but the M23 has no tolls either. Petrol stations are frequent near Crawley and Gatwick.
- Fuel: Shell, BP, Tesco stations every 5-10 miles.
- Parking: Brighton NCP offers £12/day.
- Tolls: None on A23 or M23.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from London to Brighton?
The drive takes about 1 hour 30 minutes without traffic, but can exceed 2 hours during peak times.
Is it worth driving from London to Brighton?
Yes, especially to explore the South Downs and stop at hidden gems like Devil's Dyke.
What are the best stops between London and Brighton?
Best stops include Crawley, Pease Pottage Services, Devil's Dyke, and the South Downs Viewpoint.
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