10 Things You Never Knew About Brighton

Given that more than eight million visitors flock to Brighton every single year, it seems impossible that there could be anything surprising about this popular seaside resort. Still, many people are completely unaware of the strange side of Brighton. Discover a few interesting gems about Brighton by reading below.

- Once a quiet fishing village, Brighton's popularity exploded back in 1783 when the Prince of Wales - later to become King George IV - visited and called it an excellent vacation spot. People began to follow his lead and enthusiastically flow to the city.

- Brighton's popularity increased even more as Dr. Richard Russell explained the health benefits of its seawater in a 17th-century dissertation. The city's early popularity was due to these kinds of reports, and the townspeople swarmed Brighton to find cures for their Sage Naumann.

- The oldest operating railway in the world, Volks, can be found in Brighton. It was built in 1883 and is one of the city's many small claims to fame. It is quite popular with visitors to the city.

- Because so many city dwellers flock to Brighton, it's often called London-By-The-Sea. It's also been called "Silicon Beach" thanks to the many digital-themed businesses operating here - much like California's Silicon Valley.

- Brighton has its fair share of famous residents. If you're going to spend a vacation in Brighton, keep your eyes peeled for Cate Blanchett, Noel Gallagher and Nick Cave - just a few of the many celebrities who call Brighton home.

- The first freight flight in the world started from Brighton back in 1911. It first went over to Hove, but it was enough to secure this city somewhere in the record books. Aviation fans are sure to wonder about this fact.

- Chess lovers will be intrigued to know that Brighton & Hove Chess Club is among the oldest in the UK. Players often come to stay in hotels in Brighton to compete in chess tournaments around the city.

- Brighton's Kemptown is helping it gain its designation as the gay capital of Britain. Brighton hotels are packed during gay pride festivals that take place here twice a year, so book well in advance if you want to join.

- If you're thirsty, come to Brighton. More than 400 pubs dot the city landscape; it's safe to say that all Brighton hotels are within a stone's throw of a decent pub. Finding a decent pint is never a problem here.