The major attraction of the city is less in any particular "sight", more in the all-round entertainment Brighton provides - after the shopping and cafes in the day, an immense amount of restaurants and a strong variety of comedy, music and theatre are on offer, once again all within a half-mile or so of each other. Some of the best eateries are to be found in the Lanes and surrounding streets, although I'll resist suggesting specific venues - partly because there's such a variety of styles and settings that every person will have a different group of favourites, partly due to a major part of the enjoyment being wandering around seeking a feeding without really knowing what it is you're after.

Pub-wise, similar variety exists. There are the bigger, more generic chain affairs in West Street, the smaller, more unique establishments in and around the Lanes, and everything in between elsewhere - the Steine possesses a number of large pubs, while several glass-fronted bars line the route from the station to the seafront. Again, a great part of the fun is to be had searching out drinkeries for oneself, but the Smugglers, in Ship Street, and The Font, just into the Lanes off here, stand out for me as distinctive venues with exceptional atmosphere.

Clubs are less widely distributed - concentrated principally in West Street and the seafront. The latter are probably the best of the lot, but come at an increased price. Drinks, as ever, are ridiculously expensive in almost all of the venues - take advantage of the great number and quality of pubs and bars first.

As for non-alcoholic or food-based entertainment, the city is superbly well-stocked. The Komedia, in Gardner Street, hosts endless varied shows, which are invariably well-received, whilst the Dome is the venue for well-known theatre, stand-up and less mainstream music. The Brighton Centre, on the seafront at the foot of West Street sees most of the big-name bands and shows, and also acts as the usual home of the Brighton Bears basketball team. See respective websites for up-to-date details.

The Brighton Festival runs from May 7-29th, showcasing the city's enthusiasm and talent for the arts, making it a great time to visit.