Brighton, England is a fun beach town about an hour by train from London’s Victoria Station. They’ve really spruced it up over the years, and it’s become a go-to spot when the sun decides to show up. You can walk along the remaining pier (the other one was sadly destroyed in a fire) or stroll the beach all the way to Hove. It can get pretty busy in the summer, but it’s also lovely on a sunny winter day. Sometimes there’s even a little winter fair with food stalls and unique gifts. There are loads of small, independent stores with great finds, and of course, you’ve got to have fish and chips while you’re there, just check reviews to find a good spot! You’ll find plenty of places to stay and different cuisines, so it’s easy to make a day or weekend of it.

Café Petiole is a fantastic vegan restaurant located in Somerset House, London. The food is fresh, delicious, and reasonably priced, making it a great spot for a meal while exploring the area. The café is perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch. Somerset House itself has a rich history—it was once a government tax office but has since been transformed into a vibrant cultural hub. Today, it hosts art exhibitions, outdoor cinema screenings in the summer, and an ice-skating rink in the winter. If you’re in the area, Café Petiole is well worth a stop! Café Petiole at Somerset House is conveniently located near several transport options. The closest stations are: • Temple Station (Circle and District lines) – about a 5-minute walk • Covent Garden Station (Piccadilly line) – about a 10-minute walk • Charing Cross Station (Bakerloo and Northern lines, plus National Rail) – about a 10-minute walk • Embankment Station (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines) – about an 8-minute walk More photos to follow.