Brighton & Rottindean Transport Guide

When was the last time you let curiosity lead the way? Brighton travel is about so much more than getting from A to B. It’s about opening the door to a place where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, where every bus journey and seaside stroll uncovers something new.

Here at The White Horses, we’re often asked how to get around – so we decided to create this handy guide. Whether you’re arriving from London, zipping across Brighton or meandering through Rottingdean, we’ve got the insider tips, local knowledge and scenic secrets to help you make the most of every journey.

Getting to Brighton and Rottingdean by public transport

Nestled on the Sussex coast, Brighton and Rottingdean are remarkably well connected. Ditch the car, sit back and take in the views as you travel with ease by train, bus or bike.

From London to Brighton

Fast, frequent trains connect London to Brighton in under an hour, making it an effortless escape from the city.

• From London Victoria or London Bridge, hop on a Southern or Thameslink service.
• Journey times are typically 50–60 minutes.
• Trains run regularly throughout the day, even on weekends.

We recommend using the Trainline or National Rail apps for real-time updates, off-peak fare deals and platform info.

From Brighton to Rottingdean

Once you’ve arrived in Brighton, Rottingdean travel is simple, with the village just a short and scenic journey away.

• Take the 2, 12, or 27 bus — all of which stop right outside The White Horses.
• Journey time: 20–30 minutes, with regular services throughout the day.
• Buses are wheelchair and pram accessible, with room for luggage.
• Pay with contactless or use the Brighton & Hove Buses app for discounted fares and live updates.

Fancy a more picturesque route? Pick up a Beryl Bike from outside the hotel and cycle the stunning Undercliff Path all the way back to Brighton. It’s a beautiful, breezy ride with clifftop views that are nothing short of spectacular.

By bus

Brighton and Hove transport is fantastic, running one of the most comprehensive and reliable bus services in the UK. Perfect for sightseeing or spontaneous detours.

Key routes to know:

• Coaster 12, 12A, 14: Links Rottingdean with Brighton Pier, the Royal Pavilion, and Brighton Station. Sit upstairs for panoramic sea views along the clifftops.
• CityBuzz 1: A fast loop through central Brighton — handy for hopping between The Lanes, Churchill Square, and Brighton beach.
• Route 7: From Brighton Marina to Brighton Station via shopping hotspots.
• Route 27: Heads north from Brighton Station into the Sussex countryside.

Buses run every 10-15 minutes during the day. Just tap on with your contactless card or use the app for cheaper fares. All buses are low-floor and wheelchair-accessible, with dedicated space for prams and bags.

Local tip: For the best coastal photo opps, grab a front seat upstairs on the 12A – the sea sparkles all the way to Saltdean.

By train

Brighton Station is your central hub for exploring beyond the city.

Easy day trips include:

• London: 50–60 minutes
• Lewes: 15 minutes
• Eastbourne: 35 minutes
• Hove or Worthing: 15–20 minutes

Local stations like Preston Park and London Road offer quick access to quieter neighbourhoods. Again, apps like Trainline or National Rail are your go-to for times and fares.

By bike

Brighton’s BTN Bikeshare scheme lets you cycle the city with freedom.

• Bikes are docked throughout the city — just download the SoBi app to rent.
• Perfect for scenic rides to the beach, Brighton Marina, or even Rottingdean via the undercliff path.
• It’s a budget-friendly, active way to explore.

On foot

Brighton is best explored on foot – it’s the kind of place where you want to get lost on purpose.

• The Lanes and North Laine: Buzzing with indie shops and quirky cafés.
• Seafront promenade: Walk from Brighton Pier to Hove Lagoon in 30–40 minutes.
• Pavilion and gardens: A must-visit, but wear comfy shoes — Brighton’s famously hilly in parts.

Local tip: Sunrise over the sea is something special. If you’re staying with us, take a dawn stroll and watch the waves turn pink.

• Buses to Brighton, Saltdean, Peacehaven and Newhaven run frequently.
• National Cycle Network Route 2 runs along the coast, ideal for longer rides.
• Walking routes lead up to Beacon Hill, along the cliffs and down to the beach.
• Taxis can be booked from Brighton; it’s best to pre-arrange as they’re not always available on-demand in the village.

It’s a village made for wandering – from craggy, breathtaking shorelines and clifftop paths to literary gardens and cosy pubs galore.

Must-see attractions & how to reach them by public transport

Let your sense of adventure roam. These are our favourite spots – all easily reached from Brighton or Rottingdean.

1. Brighton Pier – Walk from Brighton Station or take CityBuzz 1
2. Brighton Pavilion & Museum – Hop on 12 or 14 from Rottingdean or walk from town
3. Brighton Pavilion & Museum – Hop on 12 or 14 from Rottingdean or walk from town
4. Brighton Marina – Take the Coaster 12/12A for sea views en route
5. The Lanes & North Laine – Short walk or bus from Brighton Station
6. The Lanes & North Laine – Short walk or bus from Brighton Station
7. Rottingdean Beach – Just 2 minutes from The White Horses
8. Kipling Gardens – A serene 5-minute walk from the hotel
9. Rottingdean Windmill – 10–15 minutes uphill, worth it for the views

For more local secrets and pretty spots, just pop down to our Discovery Bar – our team are always happy to share their favourite hidden gems.

Local Tips from The White Horses team

We speak to travellers every day and hear what works best. Here are some quick Brighton public transport tips straight from the team:

• Travel off-peak for a quieter, cheaper experience.
• Bring a contactless card – no paper tickets needed.
• Download these helpful apps:
  • Brighton & Hove Buses
  • Trainline
  • Citymapper
• For stunning sea views, sit upstairs on the Coaster buses.
• Ask us for help! We love sharing our local knowledge.

Explore the coast like a local

There’s something magical about travelling by bus or bike along the Sussex coast. It’s slower, yes – but it’s also deeper, richer and more alive with possibility. You see more. You feel more. And when you stay with us at The White Horses, you’re not just visiting. You’re part of the story.

Whether you’re stopping by for a drink at the bar, sampling the fresh, delicious food and drink on our seasonal menu or booking a room for a longer stay – we invite you to step out of the ordinary and let curiosity lead the way.