Unveiling the Secrets of Britain’s Most Exotic Palace – The Royal Pavilion

The Royal Pavilion is a former royal residence located in the heart of Brighton. It is a fascinating example of Regency architecture and design. It was built in stages between 1787 and 1823 as a seaside retreat for George, Prince of Wales (later King George IV), who was known for his flamboyant tastes and love of all things luxurious.

The palace’s exterior is one of its most striking features, with its domes and minarets inspired by Indian Mughal architecture. The elaborate facade contrasts sharply with the traditional British seaside town around it – this contrast only adds to the building’s unique charm.
One can enter through several entrances into different parts of the palace. The entrance hall leads visitors into an impressive staircase which features hand-painted murals depicting scenes from Hindu mythology by artist William Wilkins. From here visitors are led up to various rooms that showcase both Western and Eastern influences in their designs.
One such room is the Banqueting Room which is considered one of the finest examples of Chinese-inspired interior decoration outside China itself! This room measures 37 meters long by nearly ten meters wide so it can accommodate large banquets or balls. Its centerpiece is a magnificent dragon chandelier made from gilded wood and copper that hangs over a dining table surrounded by ornate chairs upholstered in silk brocade fabrics.
Another notable space within the pavilion is the Music Room which boasts stunning interiors richly decorated with gold leafing on walls adorned with exotic birds painted onto wallpaper imported from China during construction time period; this creates an atmosphere that transports you far away from England altogether! One cannot help but marvel at how thoughtfully every detail has been designed keeping even acoustics into consideration making it perfect for musical performances or recitals still held today.
Throughout these opulent spaces there are many other interesting details worth noting including intricate plaster-work patterns on ceilings, exquisite furniture pieces, and beautiful paintings by renowned artists such as Henry Fuseli and Joshua Reynolds.
The palace also has extensive gardens that are open to the public. These include a formal garden filled with exotic plants, a picturesque lake complete with swans and ducks, and various charming pathways lined with trees. It’s easy to spend an afternoon strolling around these idyllic gardens – a perfect way to unwind after exploring the opulent interiors of the palace itself!
In addition to its architectural beauty, The Royal Pavilion also offers visitors insight into Georgian-era life in England. During their visit guests can take part in guided tours or audio-guides which offer more information about the building’s history as well as stories about its former residents.
Overall, The Royal Pavilion is one of Brighton’s must-see attractions for anyone interested in architecture, design or history! Its unique blend of Western and Eastern influences make it truly spectacular – not just within England but internationally too!

The palace’s exterior features Indian-inspired domes and minarets which are set against a backdrop of beautiful gardens. Inside, visitors can explore opulent rooms decorated with dazzling chandeliers, silk draperies, and ornate furniture that reflect the eclectic style of its regal owner.

An interesting story about the Royal Pavilion that many people may not be aware of.

During World War II, when Brighton was being heavily bombed by the German Luftwaffe, the Royal Pavilion was used as a makeshift hospital to treat wounded soldiers.
One day in 1940, while bombs were raining down on Brighton and causing widespread destruction, a group of nurses who were working at the pavilion decided to take shelter in one of its underground tunnels. To their surprise and delight, they discovered that this tunnel contained a secret bar!
Apparently, during peacetime, this area had been used as a wine cellar for King George IV’s personal collection. But during WWII it became something of a hidden refuge for staff members seeking respite from the chaos outside.
The nurses reportedly spent several hours enjoying drinks and socializing with other staff members before being interrupted by an air-raid siren signalling that it was safe to come out again. It’s unknown how long this secret bar remained open, or if anyone else ever stumbled upon it during their time at the Royal Pavilion.

 

The Royal Pavilion in Brighton is truly a unique architectural gem that beautifully blends Indian and Islamic design elements with traditional British architecture. Its rich history cultural significance make it an important landmark for both locals to tourists alike – visitors can explore this magnificent building’s fascinating past while enjoying breathtaking beauty today through an unforgettable visit, one of England’s most iconic landmarks.

 

Here are some more things you can see within walking distance of the Royal Pavilion in Brighton:
    • Churchill Square: This is a popular shopping centre located just a few blocks from the Royal Pavilion. It features many high street shops, cafés and restaurants.
    • North Laine: This area is known for its Bohemian vibe and independent shops selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade crafts.
    • St. Peter’s Church: This historic church is located near the North Laine and dates back to the 19th century. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and an impressive clock tower.
    • Brighton Dome: Located next to the Royal Pavilion, this venue hosts concerts, theatre performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.
    • The Open Market: A bustling indoor market featuring stalls selling fresh produce, jewellery, books, music and much more.

 

 

Brighton Chocolate Festival

Chocolate Festival in Brighton

Chocolate festival is returning to Brighton on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th March 2023. Two days of chocolate celebration is the perfect place to try delicious chocolate gifts and indulge your passion about chocolate. Continue reading “Brighton Chocolate Festival”

Royal Pavilion Ice Rink 2015

The ground outside the Royal Pavilion is being prepared for the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink again and we are exited to publish all the details you need to know. Yes the 2015 Christmas lights in Brighton still not being switched on and we have another reminder of Christmas being behind the corner. This time behind the corner of the Royal Pavilion.

We all know every year is Brighton’s Ice Rink in the Top 5 Ice Rinks in the whole UK and it will open the gates for its sixth year on November 7 2015 to January 17 2016 on the Royal Pavilion’s Eastern lawns in Brighton. It is the UK’s first sustainable rink, using a green energy tariff to freeze the ice and power up the attraction.

Set against the backdrop of the former Royal pleasure palace, it has space for 250 skaters per session, with a beginners’ area with penguin skate aids and skate sizes from ‘just walking’ to adult, offering seasonal fun and a unique festive experience.

In December, Father Christmas will on site on specific dates (check the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink’s Facebook & Twitter for latest updates about this).

And for adults, book a babysitter and enjoy some of their different themed nights such as Comedy evening, and live music events.

Brighton’s Royal Pavilion Rink, with the ornate Regency pleasure palace as its backdrop, is open every day, and is a great way to round off a day of Christmas shopping. This year, the rink side Bar & Kitchen is serving up warming soups, mulled wine and marshmallow-topped hot chocolate.

Opening Times & Sessions

The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is open 7th November 2015 – 17th January, 2016. Sessions must be booked through the on-site ticket office or via Ticketmaster and are one hour long.
Bar and restaurant open 9.30am – late. Box office open 9.45am – 9.45pm.

Sessions:

10:00 – 11:00
11:15 – 12:15
12:30 – 13:30
13:45 – 14:45
15:00 – 16:00
16:15 – 17:15
17:30 – 18:30
18:45 – 19:45
20:00 – 21:00
21:15 – 22:15

Peak sessions: All weekend sessions – all day All week days from 5.30pm – 10.15pm All day during Christmas period (12/12/15 – 3/1/16 inc)

Off-peak sessions:Week days (7/11/15 – 11/12/15 inc, and 4/1/16 – 17/1/16 inc) 10am – 5.15pm.Last off-peak session on a weekday is 4.15pm – 5.15pm.

Tickets

Tickets can be bought on the door for skating sessions on the day or in advance. There’s no entry charge to spectate or visit the bar and restaurant. Skaters should aim to arrive 20 mins before their chosen session, especially if you have children. If you are late, you will be allowed on the ice but you may not have your full hour of skating. The largest skate boot is shoe size UK15 / European 49. The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is outdoor and skating continues whatever the weather so please dress appropriately.

Long coats, skirts and scarves should not be worn for visitor’s own safety. Please bear in mind, tickets are non refundable – if it’s raining, you will get wet! Once a ticket has been sold, the quota for that session is reduced – refunds will not be payable if visitors decide to cut short their session.

Children and families are given a warm welcome at the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink. The smallest skate boot size available for children is 25 (age approx 3-4 years old), however a limited number of dual blades (‘bob skates’) are available for younger skaters. These are issued on a first come, first served basis. Parents must judge whether their children can skate safely.

  • Full price tickets (aged 12 and over) £13 peak session / £10 off-peak session.
  • Children (under 12) £8.50 peak session / £7 off-peak session.
  • Family £36 (2 full price tickets, 2 children or 1 full price ticket, 3 children)
  • School tickets £4 per head (students and teachers, not parents, off-peak only)
  • Students and Members of the Royal Pavilion £10 per peak session/£7 per off-peak session (Please note: We offer a student discount to customers in full time further or higher education if they hold a valid student photo ID card, and a discount to holders of a current Royal Pavilion membership card. This must be shown at the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink Box Office on the day of skating, or customers will be charged the full ticket price.)
  • Groups 10% off group bookings (10 people or more, only available on full price and children’s tickets)
  • Season tickets Unlimited skating (subject to availability) Mon – Fri excluding Christmas Period (12/12/15 – 3/1/16 inc) Full price ticket £99, Juniors £69.
Please note: Booking of specific sessions in advance must be done via TM Groups Department or on-site Box Office. To skate, customers must show paper copy of their season ticket (or email confirmation) plus ID at on-site Box Office. Season tickets may not be used in combination with any other discount or concession. Club Rinkidinks Every day 10am to 11am – Children under 5 years of age skate for free when accompanied by an adult paying full price for their session.
Terms and conditions apply: Only 1 child under 5 may skate for free per paying adult. Tickets for any additional children will be charged at the standard rate for that session.
Skaters bringing own skates eligible for 50% off, from box office only, available on presentation of skates.
Website: www.royalpavilionicerink.co.uk
Phone: 0844 847 2352 (Calls cost 5p per minute. Network charges may vary)
I remember the time we went last year. Skating was great fun and the Pavilion is an amazing venue to skate in front of – particularly when it’s dark outside! You can just feel the Christmas in the air. The stewards are really helpful too, especially if you fall over as much as I did. Definitely looking forward to fall over few times again this year.