Brighton is a city that loves to surprise. Its lively streets, historic piers, and seaside charm make it an irresistible base for exploring southern England. But what truly sets Brighton apart are the unique experiences available just outside the city limits. Whether you’re into wine, history, wildlife, or quirky adventures, Brighton offers a diverse range of tours that cater to all interests. We especially enjoy the Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour for its seamless blend of countryside beauty and sparkling wine tasting, or the Stonehenge and Bath day trip for a taste of history and stunning architecture. These tours let you enjoy the region’s highlights without the hassle of planning.
From tranquil birdwatching excursions to lively donut tastings and provocative history walks, Brighton’s tour scene is anything but ordinary. With comfortable transport, expert guides, and well-curated itineraries, these experiences help you make the most of your time in this vibrant part of England.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights a variety of tours, from wine tastings at Sussex’s renowned wineries to historic day trips to Stonehenge and Bath. For those looking for a nature escape, the Sussex Birdwatching Private Guided Day Tour offers a chance to spot over 400 bird species. If your taste is more adventurous, the Friston Forest & Seven Sisters eBike Tour combines stunning coastal views with active exploration. For a fun break, try the Brighton Festive Donut Adventure, which pairs local donuts with a seaside stroll. And for a peek into Brighton’s wilder side, the Hidden Stories of Sex and Scandal Tour uncovers the city’s rebellious history.
Now, let’s explore each of these tours in detail to help you choose the perfect experience.
1. Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour on Iconic Vintage London Bus
At number 1 on our list, the Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour offers a delightful full-day escape into England’s sparkling wine scene. Priced at $200.13 per person, this tour is perfect for wine lovers eager to learn about the region’s notable sparkling wines. The journey departs Brighton in a charming, vintage London bus, setting the tone for a nostalgic trip through Sussex’s rolling countryside. The tour includes visits to two esteemed wineries—Court Gardens Farm and Bluebell Vineyard Estates—each offering guided tours, tastings, and insights into English wine production.
What makes this experience stand out is the intimate, small-group setting that allows for a relaxed and personalized visit. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with locally produced items, overlooking the vines, complemented by a selection of Sussex wines. Guests often comment on the friendly guides and the quality of the wines, especially the sparkling varieties. The tour’s highlight is the full immersion into Sussex’s wine culture without the hassle of self-driving or complicated bookings.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a taste of Sussex’s award-winning sparklers, combined with the charm of a vintage bus trip and a delicious picnic. It’s a good fit for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
2. Stonehenge and Bath – Day Tour from Brighton
For around $117.08, the Stonehenge and Bath day trip is a classic escape into Britain’s ancient and elegant past. This full-day guided tour covers two UNESCO World Heritage sites, offering a fulfilling mix of history, architecture, and scenic countryside. The journey begins with a comfortable coach ride through historic cathedral cities like Salisbury before arriving at Stonehenge. Here, you’ll enjoy a self-guided audio tour of the mysterious stones and exhibition, giving you time to absorb their ancient aura.
In the afternoon, the tour heads to Bath, where you’ll explore the Roman Baths, the Royal Crescent, and other Georgian landmarks on a guided walk. The tour provides ample free time to explore independently—visit museums, browse shops, or grab a bite at a cozy café. The guide ensures you’re well-informed about the history, making this both an educational and relaxing experience.
Guests praise the well-organized schedule and the scenic ride across the English countryside. One reviewer notes, “Stonehenge is a magical place and Bath is a gem too,” emphasizing the tour’s value for heritage lovers.
Bottom Line: This trip is perfect for history buffs wanting an easy, well-paced day out that mixes iconic sites with the comfort of a guided tour. It’s great for those with limited time but a love for Britain’s storied past.
3. Sussex Birdwatching Private Guided Day Tour
Birding fans will love the Sussex Birdwatching Private Guided Day Tour, which costs about $330.59 for up to four people. This tailored experience is designed to showcase Sussex’s impressive bird diversity—over 400 recorded species, with around 260 seen annually. Your expert guide will take you to prime locations such as Old Lodge Nature Reserve and Pulborough Brooks RSPB, where you might spot Dartford Warblers, White-tailed Eagles, or seasonal migrants.
What makes this tour special is the customization. The itinerary adapts to your interests and the season, maximizing your chances of seeing your target species. The guide’s 25 years of birding experience ensures you’ll learn plenty about the local avifauna—perfect for serious birders or casual nature lovers. The tour includes walking trips through wetlands and downlands, offering varied habitats and bird encounters.
Reviews highlight the impressive variety of species seen, with visitors noting the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see rare birds like the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. It’s a full day in nature, perfect for those wanting an active, bird-focused outing.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about birds or want an expert-led nature day, this private tour delivers a personalized, wildlife-rich experience in Sussex.
4. Brighton Festive Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
Number 4 on our list, the Brighton Festive Donut Adventure is a sweet way to explore Brighton’s streets during winter. For only $70, this 2-hour walk combines tasting the city’s best donuts with learning about their history and the local shops behind them. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll visit multiple donut shops, sampling signature treats and gaining insight into Brighton’s donut culture.
This tour is especially fun for those who enjoy food and want to experience the city through a tasty lens. The highlight is the chance to sample diverse donuts, from classic glazed to innovative flavors, and finish with optional ice skating. It’s a relaxed, social activity that offers a hearty dose of sugar and local flavor.
Reviews mention how enjoyable and well-organized the tour is, with participants loving the chance to discover hidden bakery gems. It’s perfect for a casual date, family outing, or anyone with a sweet tooth.
Bottom Line: For a fun, informal way to sample Brighton’s sweet side and learn about local baking traditions, this donut tour is a delightful treat.
5. Brighton: Hidden Stories of Sex and Scandal Tour
The Hidden Stories of Sex and Scandal is a provocative 2-hour walk priced at just $20. It dives into Brighton’s rebellious, risqué past, uncovering scandalous tales, forbidden places, and the city’s pioneering sex-positive history. You’ll visit an adult boutique, explore alleyways with notorious reputations, and hear stories that reveal the city’s more daring side.
This tour is for travelers interested in the less-polished chapters of Brighton’s history. The guide weaves entertaining stories with visits to iconic locations, making history lively and a little naughty. Guests appreciate the playful tone and the chance to see a different facet of Brighton’s culture.
If you’re curious about Brighton’s rebellious soul and enjoy stories of scandal, this tour offers a fun, eye-opening perspective.
Bottom Line: Ideal for open-minded, history-loving travelers who want an amusing yet informative peek into Brighton’s provocative past.
6. Brighton: Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour with Tastings
At $156 per person, this Sussex Wine Region Walking Tour combines a scenic stroll with tastings at two award-winning vineyards. Over 7.5 hours, you’ll visit Court Garden Vineyard and another local winery, learning about wine production and enjoying guided tastings of sparkling and still wines. The tour also includes exploring the charming village of Ditchling, with time for lunch at a local pub.
What makes this tour stand out is its sustainable approach—walking, public transport, and local food—plus the chance to see the Sussex countryside up close. The guide’s knowledge enriches the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. Guests love the mix of vineyard visits, village charm, and scenic views. It suits wine enthusiasts and those who appreciate a relaxed, authentic experience of Sussex’s rural life.
Potential downsides are the long day and walking involved, so it’s best for those comfortable on their feet. Many reviewers say the wine tastings are generous and the scenic village walk is charming.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers who enjoy walking and exploring local villages. It offers a hands-on, sustainable way to experience Sussex’s viticulture.
7. Friston Forest & Seven Sisters eBike Tour
Finally, the Friston Forest & Seven Sisters eBike Tour offers an active day out for about $196 per person. Starting from Brighton, you’ll spend 5.5 hours cycling through stunning coastal and forest scenery, with stops at iconic sites like the Seven Sisters and Long Man of Wilmington. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the area while you enjoy the ride, with the option to sample local beer at the Longman Brewery.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of breathtaking views, physical activity, and a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for cyclists of average fitness and those who want to see the chalk cliffs and lush woods firsthand. The route includes visits to England’s oldest tree and smallest church, adding quirky touches to the adventure. The eBike makes it accessible for most, and the scenic stops are perfect for photos and picnics.
Guests mention the incredible views and the fun of riding along coastal paths. It’s an excellent choice for active travelers who want a memorable day in Sussex’s countryside.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy cycling and stunning scenery, this eBike tour combines adventure with sightseeing in a way that’s both exhilarating and manageable.
How to Choose Your Best Brighton Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and fitness level. If you’re passionate about wine and want a relaxed day, the Sussex Vineyard & Winery Bus Tour offers an authentic taste of Sussex sparkling wines with a charming vintage ride. For history lovers, the Stonehenge and Bath trip provides iconic sights with manageable free time.
If wildlife is your thing, the Birdwatching Tour offers expert-guided sightings of rare and seasonal birds, perfect for serious birders. For those seeking something fun and different, the Donut Adventure mixes tasty treats with city exploration, ideal for casual outings.
Active travelers will love the eBike Tour, which combines scenic coastal rides and forest walks. Meanwhile, those interested in Brighton’s edgy side can explore its rebellious history with the Hidden Stories of Sex and Scandal.
Consider your schedule—some tours are full days, others just a couple hours—and check the reviews for insights on guide quality and overall experience.
Final Thoughts
Brighton offers a range of tours that suit many interests, whether you’re into fine wines, historic landmarks, birdwatching, or quirky adventures. For a leisurely day, the Sussex Winery tour is hard to beat, while the Stonehenge and Bath trip is ideal for history buffs. If you want active exploration, the eBike tour is unforgettable, and for a fun, sweet treat, the donut adventure is perfect.
Book early, especially for popular options like wine tours or the birdwatching experience, to ensure a spot. Whatever your choice, these tours promise a memorable way to see the best of Brighton’s surrounds while diving into local culture and scenery.