Barks and Life Sparks

Cookie, a small black terrier, sitting in front of a colorful children’s carousel on Brighton’s beach promenade, with 'Brighton by the Sea' on a double-decker bus in the background.

My First Solo Holiday with My Dog: Discovering Brighton

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Barks and Life Sparks
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My First Solo Holiday with My Dog was a journey of discovery, independence, and joy, with Brighton as the perfect destination

Escape to Brighton: My First Solo Holiday with My Dog

I decided to take my first solo holiday with my dog to Brighton during the COVID-19 period, shortly after the first lockdown. At the time, the summer felt both strange and uncertain, with travel restrictions and endless work hours dominating daily life. As a biomedical scientist working in a virology lab, I was mentally and physically drained. Therefore, I knew I needed a break—a chance to recharge and breathe again. Since I’ve always been a beach person, a coastal escape seemed like the perfect remedy.

With travel restrictions in place, returning to Portugal wasn’t an option. Instead, Brighton, a charming seaside town, came up during conversations with colleagues. In fact, one of them even offered me a discounted stay at her B&B flat for a few nights, which felt like a fortunate opportunity.

Unfortunately, none of my friends were available to join me, and I wasn’t entirely sure how I’d manage alone. However, solo journeys often teach us invaluable lessons about growth and resilience. But, when I looked at Cookie, I knew we’d figure it out together. And so, we embarked on our first solo holiday to Brighton.

Planning My First Solo Holiday with My Dog to Brighton

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits in front of a computer wearing glasses. Meanwhile, a starfish, sunglasses, and a beach ball add a beachy vibe to the table.
Cookie, a small black terrier, sits in front of a computer wearing glasses. Meanwhile, a starfish, sunglasses, and a beach ball add a beachy vibe to the table.

At home, I began researching thoroughly to prepare for my first solo holiday with my dog. Since I wanted Cookie and me to fully enjoy Brighton, I focused on identifying must-visit spots and pet-friendly beaches. Fortunately, one of my colleagues, who is also a fellow dog parent, shared invaluable advice based on her experiences with pet-friendly travel in the UK. Specifically, she recommended the best dog-friendly beaches, nearby supermarkets, and scenic walking routes that would be perfect for exploring with Cookie.

With her tips in hand, I felt significantly more confident about the trip. Moreover, the detailed planning helped transform my initial nerves into growing excitement. As I vividly pictured the adventures awaiting us in this vibrant seaside town, I became certain that Cookie and I were ready to make the most of our Brighton getaway.

Traveling to Brighton: A Stress-Free Journey with My Dog

The interactive map above shows the train journey from London Bridge Station to Brighton, including key landmarks along the way.

Traveling to Brighton is truly a breeze! Not only is it just a 50-minute journey from London Bridge Station via a direct, pet-friendly train, but it’s also often shorter than traveling across London. Additionally, you can easily reach London Bridge Station using the London Bridge Underground, which conveniently connects to both the Northern and Jubilee lines.

The train carriages are incredibly comfortable and thoughtfully designed, featuring special areas with extra space for luggage, buggies, or bicycles. Furthermore, there’s even a nearby toilet for added convenience during the trip. Cookie and I thoroughly enjoyed watching the scenic views together, capturing cute photos along the way. However, I must admit that Cookie often dozed off as the gentle rocking of the train lulled her to sleep.

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits next to a large suitcase on a train seat, ready for her Brighton journey.
Cookie sits patiently on the train, her suitcase by her side, ready for our Brighton adventure. Travel buddy goals!

To save on costs, consider purchasing tickets in advance through the Trainline app. This way, you can enjoy your solo holiday to Brighton without breaking the bank!

The Arrival in Brighton

Have you ever arrived in a new city, feeling both excited and completely lost at the same time? That was exactly how I felt on my first solo holiday with my dog to Brighton. Upon arriving, I followed my colleague’s advice and took the bus she had recommended. When I disembarked at the suggested stop, however, I quickly realized my sense of direction was far from reliable. With a 20 kg suitcase in tow and Cookie by my side, I ended up wandering aimlessly in the sweltering 30-degree heat, relying heavily on Google Maps to guide me.

Lost in Brighton: A Challenging Start

The AIDS Memorial Sculpture by Romany Mark Bruce, with the sea as a serene backdrop in Brighton.
The AIDS Memorial Sculpture in Brighton stands as a poignant reminder of love, loss, and resilience, set against the calming sea.

I vividly remember wandering for at least an hour and a half, desperately trying to locate the flat where I’d be staying. During that time, I felt famished, drenched in sweat, and increasingly dehydrated. Meanwhile, Cookie, feeling the heat on her little paws, had settled into my arms for relief. Despite my determination, I couldn’t shake the nagging thought that this adventure was not starting off as planned.

A Kind Encounter: Finding Our Way

As I stood there, feeling both frustrated and sweaty, I suddenly spotted the ocean ahead. In that moment, the refreshing sea breeze swept over me, providing a much-needed sense of relief amidst the chaos. Even though it was a weekday, the streets were eerily quiet, which only added to the surreal atmosphere. Eventually, a kind couple appeared, and I didn’t hesitate to seize the opportunity to ask for directions.

They were incredibly helpful, patiently guiding me to the right street. Moreover, as they explained, the postal code was the same throughout the city, which clarified why I had trouble finding the location on Google Maps. Their kindness truly made all the difference. What had started as a frustrating and exhausting moment quickly transformed into a heart warming beginning to my solo holiday in Brighton.

Cookie, a small black terrier, poses in front of a carousel ride featuring a bright yellow taxi at Brighton.
Need a ride? Brighton taxis are pet-friendly! If only I had hopped in, maybe I wouldn’t have gotten so lost—Cookie’s all set for an adventure!

Discovering Brighton: History, Culture, and Canine-Friendly Adventures

From Fishing Village to Fashionable Resort

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits on a fishing boat displayed on Brighton's beach at the outdoor fishing museum.
Little paws, big adventures! Cookie takes a moment to explore Brighton’s fishing history on a boat by the beach. Ready to sail back in time?

Brighton, nestled on England’s southern coast, holds a rich history that stretches back to the 18th century. Originally a humble fishing village, it began to flourish when the Prince of Wales (later King George IV) developed a deep affection for the area in the late 1700s. Consequently, his influence led to the construction of the iconic Royal Pavilion, a masterpiece of architecture that showcases Brighton’s eclectic style and charm.

Exploring Brighton’s Artistic Side with Cookie

Over time, Brighton evolved into a hub of alternative culture and artistic expression. The city is home to the Brighton Festival, one of England’s largest arts festivals, celebrating music, theatre, and visual arts. Additionally, Brighton Pride draws visitors from across the globe with its colourful parade and vibrant celebration of diversity and inclusion.

Cookie, a small black terrier, walks through an outdoor beach photography exhibition in Brighton, featuring black-and-white and colourful photos.
Strolling through creativity! As part of our Brighton adventure, Cookie explores a stunning beachside photography exhibition showcasing vibrant and black-and-white works.

A Unique Blend of History and Modernity

A vibrant graffiti mural on the side wall of a building in Brighton, showcasing bold colours and artistic expression.
Brighton’s creative heartbeat shines through its street art! This bold mural captures the city’s unique blend of history and modernity.

Brighton’s dynamic vibe continues to thrive, driven by its diverse communities and boundless creative energy. From the charming independent shops and quaint alleyways of the Lanes to the vibrant street art and lively music festivals, there is always something exciting waiting to be discovered. In addition, this rich blend of history and modernity makes Brighton an irresistible destination, particularly for solo travelers and dog owners seeking unique and memorable experiences.

Moreover, with its stunning coastline, iconic landmarks, and cultural vibrancy, Brighton offers visitors a captivating experience that goes far beyond its beaches. Whether you’re delving into its rich history or immersing yourself in its artistic atmosphere, Brighton will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

A scenic view of Brighton’s coastline featuring outdoor games like mini-golf, with the sea stretching into the horizon.
Brighton by the sea! From mini-golf to other outdoor games, this vibrant coastline offers endless fun and breath taking views.

The Beach: A Refreshing Start to My Solo Holiday

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits near the door of a Brighton flat, smiling eagerly beside a bag.
Brighton beach vibes incoming! Cookie can’t wait for me to drop the suitcase so we can start our adventure.

The moment I stepped onto Brighton’s pebble shores, a wave of freedom immediately washed over me. After arriving at the flat, I quickly dropped off our bags, gave Cookie some water, and, without a second thought, we headed straight to the beach. As excitement bubbled over, each step brought us closer to the shoreline. Although I was fully aware that Brighton’s beaches were pebbly rather than sandy, their unique charm only heightened my anticipation.

Finding the Perfect Spot

When we arrived at the beach, I carefully selected the perfect spot by the water. I laid out two towels—one for me and one for Cookie—ensuring we had a cozy place to relax. As the sun began to warm my skin, Cookie wagged her tail with excitement, clearly sensing the fun ahead. After setting up our sunshade and pulling out her favourite ball, her infectious energy made it impossible not to smile. She was ready to dive into the fun.

Diving into Joy

Although many had cautioned me about the cold waters of the UK, I decided to take the plunge regardless. Much to my surprise, the water felt remarkably warm—almost reminiscent of the Algarve in Portugal. Without hesitation, Cookie and I dove into the crystal-clear, wave-free sea. Together, we swam side by side, laughing and splashing as we played fetch. In those moments, it felt like pure joy had taken over, as if all the stress from the past days had completely melted away.

After the hectic start to my first solo holiday with my dog, this tranquil time at the beach felt like a well-deserved reward. Sharing such a joyful experience with Cookie reminded me of the transformative power of the human-animal bond and the beauty of simple moments spent together.

Cookie’s Pebble Challenge

That evening, after a delightful dinner, I had planned to explore the lively seaside promenade. However, Cookie clearly had other ideas. After walking just a few meters, she suddenly sat down and refused to move. Despite my best efforts to coax her, she wouldn’t budge. Instead, she stood up, turned around, and confidently headed back toward the flat.

It was at that moment I realized her little paws were sore from spending the entire day walking on the pebbly beach. Cookie had given her all during our beach adventures and now desperately needed some rest. With all the love and understanding I could offer, I chose to respect her wishes and gently carried her home. From that point onward, I made it a priority to carry her whenever we needed to walk over the pebbles, ensuring her comfort for the remainder of our trip.

In hindsight, this small yet meaningful moment reminded me of the importance of truly listening to Cookie’s needs. Furthermore, it reinforced the unbreakable bond we share. Sometimes, even the simplest gestures of care can make the biggest difference.

Little paws, big confidence! Watch Cookie strut from the pebbles to the waves, enjoy a swim, and head back like a pro.

The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination, and brings eternal joy—this beach will always be my favourite.

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits on her towel on Brighton’s pebble beach, with a book and a can of espresso martini beside her.
Beach vibes with Cookie! She’s soaking up the view while I enjoy a good book and a cheeky espresso martini.

Pros and Cons of Pebble Beaches vs. Sandy Beaches

Pebble beaches offer unique benefits and challenges compared to sandy beaches. Here’s a quick look at their pros and cons.

Pros of Pebble Beaches Cons of Pebble Beaches
Comfortable: The smooth, rounded stones conform to the body, offering a unique relaxation experience. Requires Special Footwear: Pebbles can cause foot discomfort; shoes are necessary for extended walks.
Sand-Free: No sand scattered on towels or skin, making cleanup effortless. Paw Pain for Dogs: Extended time on pebbles may cause soreness in your dog’s paws.
Clean Eating Area: Food stays free of sand while dining on the beach. Home Clean-Up: Pebbles may not create sand mess, but they can be harder to walk on.
Naturally Filed Nails: Dogs’ nails get nicely filed after walking on pebbles. Harder for Play: Playing fetch or running might be less enjoyable on pebbles.

A Morning Solo Exploring the Seafront

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to explore Brighton’s vibrant seafront during my first solo holiday with my dog? On the second day of our Brighton adventure, Cookie and I eagerly set out to experience the bustling promenade. Along the way, we discovered a variety of attractions—from charming beach shops and cozy cafés to lively bars—that made the experience truly unforgettable. Moreover, the vibrant atmosphere and friendly energy added a unique charm to every moment.

Brighton’s Shops and Surprises

Our first stop was a shop where I picked up some special footwear for the pebbly beach. As we continued our stroll, we came across stores showcasing local artists and their creative items, which, in turn, added a unique charm to the morning. Furthermore, the energy of the seafront was absolutely contagious, especially when we unexpectedly stumbled upon a bar hosting a lively Dragon Queen show. This delightful twist not only brought laughter but also filled our day with excitement, making it a moment to remember.

Highlights and Limitations

As we continued our walk, an upside-down house caught our attention. While its quirky design was fascinating, it wasn’t pet-friendly, so Cookie and I admired it from the outside.

Cookie, a small black terrier, smiles in front of Brighton’s vibrant upside-down house.
Who needs to go inside? Cookie’s big smile says it all! Brighton’s upside-down house is pawsitively fascinating, even from the outside.

A quick stop for ice cream refreshed us before we wandered past Brighton Pier, which, like the upside-down house, wasn’t accessible for dogs. Despite these small limitations, the lively atmosphere and colourful sights kept us entertained.

GIF of Cookie, a small black terrier, sitting at a table outside a gelataria in Brighton, trying gelato.
First bite, pure delight! Watch Cookie try her first gelato at a Brighton gelataria—her face says it all!

GIF of Cookie, a small black terrier, licking her mouth outside a Brighton gelataria after tasting gelato.
That gelato hit the spot! Cookie’s reaction says it all—Brighton’s treats are pawsitively delicious.
Cookie, a small black terrier, stands joyfully in front of the iconic Brighton Palace Pier entrance.
Brighton Palace Pier isn’t pet-friendly, but that didn’t stop Cookie from radiating joy in front of its iconic entrance!

Ending the Morning by the Sea

To wrap up the morning, we returned to the beach, where we laid out our towels to soak up the sun. Relaxing by the sea with Cookie felt like the perfect way to recharge after our eventful stroll. As we basked in the warm sunshine, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for these simple yet meaningful moments with my furry companion. Indeed, it was a reminder that sometimes the smallest joys leave the biggest impressions.

A scenic view of Brighton Beach with pebbles meeting the calm sea, a towel, and special pebble beach shoes in the foreground.
Brighton Beach vibes! Pebbles, sea, and the perfect essentials—soaking in the serene beauty of this iconic coastline.

Exploring Solo the Brighton Seafront: Evening & Night

Have you ever found yourself surrounded by laughter yet still felt utterly alone? Brighton’s seafront in the evening is undeniably vibrant—dare I say, it’s a kind of organized madness! As the night unfolds, people of all styles come together, creating an eclectic mix of personalities that bring the promenade to life. Meanwhile, bars along the seafront boast different atmospheres, each offering live music to suit every taste. In comparison to the laid-back morning I had experienced, the evening scene was a striking contrast. Furthermore, the warm hues of the sunset and the twinkling lights combined to create a uniquely magical summer sensation.

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits in the middle of Brighton’s Golden Spiral, surrounded by 24 illuminated cast-iron columns at night.
Golden hour under the stars! Cookie shines in the middle of Brighton’s Golden Spiral, proving adventures never stop, even at night.

Yet, I realized I wasn’t quite ready for this part of the trip. Although I had Cookie by my side, the sight of friends celebrating and laughing together deeply reminded me of my own loneliness. As I watched their joyful moments, I couldn’t help but miss my friends dearly. Furthermore, the thought of sitting alone with Cookie beside me made it difficult to truly enjoy the lively atmosphere. Overwhelmed by a wave of solitude, I ultimately decided to head back to the flat for some much-needed rest.

Exploring the City

What better way to spend our last morning in Brighton than by exploring its lush gardens? To start, we strolled through the Pavilion Gardens, which is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone traveling solo with their dog. Moreover, a good walk in the gardens is essential, as dogs absolutely love to sniff out new scents and uncover different places. In addition, every park or garden serves as a delightful appetizer for a furry friend, adding excitement and enrichment to their day!

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits at Pavilion Gardens in front of a tribute to children with disabilities and their service dogs.
Exploring Pavilion Gardens with Cookie, we came across a heartfelt tribute honouring children with disabilities and their service dogs. A beautiful reminder of the unbreakable bond between humans and pets.

We paused for breakfast at the Pavilion Gardens Café, where I can confidently say the scones were divine, and the coffee was creamy and rich—the perfect fuel for our adventures. Although we admired the Royal Pavilion from the outside, we couldn’t go inside as it was closed, leaving a little mystery for our next visit.

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits at a table at Pavilion Gardens Café with a scone and espresso coffee on the table.
Morning treats at Pavilion Gardens Café! Cookie’s ready to share the joy of scones and espresso amidst Brighton’s beauty.

Cookie, a small black terrier, sits in front of a beautifully ornate door at the Royal Pavilion, showcasing its intricate architecture.
Little dog, grand doorway! Cookie poses by one of the Royal Pavilion’s ornate doors, capturing Brighton’s architectural charm.
Cookie, a small black terrier, lies on the grass near a corner of the Royal Pavilion, showcasing beautiful windows and refined wall details.
Taking it all in! Cookie relaxes on the grass while the Royal Pavilion’s elegant windows and intricate walls steal the show.
Cookie, a small black terrier, sits with a backdrop of the Royal Pavilion’s intricate windows, arches, and an ornate dome.
Cookie’s royal moment! With the Pavilion’s elegant windows, beautiful arches, and intricate dome behind her, every detail shines.

Reflecting on My Solo Brighton Adventure

A Journey of Discovery Beyond Sun and Sand

Every journey holds the promise of discovery, but my time in Brighton offered so much more than just sun and sand. The goal of this trip was simple: to relax, spend quality time with Cookie, and enjoy the beach. Brighton quickly became one of my favourite cities, with its unique and alternative vibe. While this visit gave me a glimpse of its charm, it was only a small slice of a much larger adventure waiting to unfold.

Lessons Learned from My First Solo Holiday with My Dog

Although this was my first solo holiday with Cookie, it turned into a valuable lesson in solo travel and companionship. Traveling alone isn’t always easy, especially when the world around you seems paired up. However, Cookie’s constant presence reminded me that with a dog by your side, you’re never truly alone. Their unconditional love and ability to brighten your day can transform even the loneliest moments into something extraordinary.

Brighton: The Beginning of a Love Story

Since this trip, I’ve returned to Brighton several times and quickly realized just how much more there is to explore. In fact, this journey marked the beginning of my love affair with this vibrant city, brimming with incredible experiences and delightful surprises. Moreover, from hidden gems and charming cafés to secret spots waiting to be uncovered, Brighton continues to captivate me with each and every visit. Looking ahead, I’m excited to share even more about this amazing destination in future articles. So, stay tuned—there’s so much more to discover together!

“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” Jacques Cousteau

Me lying on my towel with a book, smiling, while Cookie, a small black terrier, sits on her towel next to me at Brighton Beach.
A perfect ending to our Brighton adventure: relaxing by the sea with Cookie, soaking up the peaceful vibes.

FAQs About My First Solo Holiday with My Dog to Brighton

1. Why did you choose Brighton for your first solo holiday with your dog?
Brighton offered the perfect mix of a beach escape, cultural attractions, and a pet-friendly environment. Its proximity to London and vibrant seaside charm made it an ideal destination for Cookie and me.

2. Are Brighton’s beaches dog-friendly?
Yes, many of Brighton’s beaches welcome dogs, especially during the off-peak season. However, always check specific restrictions for the time of year before planning your trip.

3. What are some must-visit dog-friendly spots in Brighton?
The Pavilion Gardens, various sections of Brighton Beach, and local cafés are great options for pet-friendly outings. Additionally, the Lanes offer unique shops and cozy spots for you and your dog to explore.

4. Is it easy to travel to Brighton with a dog?
Absolutely! Brighton is accessible via direct, pet-friendly trains from London Bridge Station. The journey is comfortable, with areas for luggage and pets.

5. How did you manage the pebbly beaches with Cookie?
Cookie wasn’t a fan of walking on the pebbles, so I carried her when necessary. Bringing a towel for her to rest on was also a great way to keep her comfortable.

6. How did Cookie adapt to the solo holiday experience?
Cookie adjusted wonderfully to the new environment. Her enthusiasm for exploring and her calming presence made the trip unforgettable.

7. What advice would you give to someone planning a solo holiday with their dog?
Plan ahead by researching dog-friendly accommodations, beaches, and activities. Most importantly, be flexible and attentive to your dog’s needs to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip for both of you.

8. Will you return to Brighton for more adventures?
Absolutely! Brighton remains one of my favourite destinations. Each visit reveals something new, and I’m excited to continue exploring its hidden gems with Cookie.

Love the Journey? Let’s Stay Connected!

If you enjoyed reading about my first solo holiday with Cookie, there’s more to discover! Keep following for pet-friendly travel tips, heartfelt stories, and insights into the bond we share with our furry companions.

New articles are posted every month, so don’t miss out!

Have you taken a leap into solo travel or explored new destinations with your furry companion? Share your story in the comments below! 💬 Let’s inspire each other with tales of adventure, growth, and connection.

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