Brighton

Brighton, borough of the unitary authority of Brighton and Hove, southeastern England, on the English Channel. A major seaside resort, Brighton is an attractive town known for its many parks and handsome squares and crescents. Manufactures are diverse and include electrical equipment and metal products. The famous Asian-style Royal Pavilion, constructed between 1784 and 1787 as a residence for the prince of Wales, later King George IV, is located in Brighton. Purchased by Brighton in 1850, the Royal Pavilion and the Dome (its former stables) now house a museum, picture galleries, and assembly halls. Several theaters and museums, an aquarium, a racecourse, and a large marina are also in the borough. Brighton is the seat of the University of Sussex (1961) and the University of Brighton (1992), which was formerly a polytechnic college. Hydrofoil service operates between Brighton and Dieppe, France.

Founded about the 10th century, the community was formerly known as Brighthelmstone. It remained a small fishing village until the pavilion was constructed in the late 18th century, after which the town quickly became a fashionable resort. In 1841 Brighton became accessible by railroad, and it grew rapidly thereafter. During World War II (1939-1945) bombing attacks by the German air force caused extensive damage. Population 259,900 (2000 estimate).