1. Raystede Centre for Animal Welfare
The Broyle, Lewes, BN8 5AJ
A short drive from Brighton, Raystede animal sanctuary has a variety of domestic animals to appreciate from dogs to donkeys and so many more. With a café, charity shop and pet supply store on site, Raystede has much to offer, all for free when you book online. If you’re lucky, you may even get a chorus of greetings from the array of exotic birds, so be sure to say hello!
2. Drusillas Park
Polegate BN26 5QS
Further afield, but worth the effort, is Drusillas Park; home to 196 different species, you’ll be sure to find some interesting characters. While being one of the more expensive attractions on this list, there are discounts available especially for groups; so, round up a group of friends and enjoy! There is also the opportunity to book VIP experiences with some animals.
3. Booth Museum of Natural History
194 Dyke Road, BN1 5AA
Perhaps an unusual attraction for animal and natural history lovers is Booth’s. With a focus on Victorian era taxidermy, explore this small hidden gem in the heart of Brighton to learn – and of course have a giggle at the comical facial expressions of the animals!
4. Stanmer Park Nature Reserve
Falmer, BN1 9RG
Take a stroll through Stanmer Park, only a few minutes from campus, to see dogs enjoying their walks and meet the cows grazing in the roadside field. If you keep going, you’ll stumble upon The Stanmer Tea Rooms; grab some lunch, a hot drink and meet the horses grazing next to the tables.
5. City Cat Shelter
Ingham Drive, BN1 9GL
If it’s a hands-on experience you’re after, feline fanatics will appreciate the voluntary opportunity Brighton’s City Cat Shelter has to offer. A home-run cat shelter dedicated to the rehoming of unwanted and stray cats, the shelter operates entirely on donations and volunteers like you.
6. Brighton Seafront
A well known and loved feature of Brighton is the starling population that frequent the seafront. Anyone who is lucky enough to have seen the murmurations of the starlings come evening time, will tell you what a spectacle it is. Perhaps grab some fish and chips and settle down on the beach around dusk to catch the show.
7. Sealife
Marine Parade, BN2 1TB
A famous feature of Brighton is the Sealife centre along the seafront. As the oldest operational aquarium in the UK, this attraction has much to offer and is a great day out.
8. Creature Clothes
23 Bond street, BN1 1NB
A hidden gem in the heart of Brighton, Creature Clothes offer an array of accessories for your furry friends. Come for the selection but stay for the two adorable mascots, Beetle and Buzz, who can usually be found snoozing at the window or enjoying head scratches from shoppers.
9. Maidenhead Aquatics
Brighton Marina, BN2 5WA
If it’s fish you’re after, look no further than Maidenhead Aquatics; a reputable chain of stores who take great care of the rare fish on offer, cultivating the spread of aquatic animal education. Wander round the brightly coloured shop to appreciate the fish close up, then head out to the marina to see some aquatic life in action!
10. Pets at Home
Brighton BN1 8LW
Another free option for appreciating some animals, on a smaller scale, is Pets at Home. Wander through and enjoy the antics of the hamsters, fish, guinea pigs and more. If you ask nicely you can even enjoy some cuddle time with the rabbits!
