Rock Gardens opposite Preston Park
1 / 10

Preston Park

4.5
·5k reviews·Brighton and Hove, United Kingdom

A vast urban park offering playgrounds, sports facilities, and event spaces, adjacent to historic Preston Manor and adventurous Rock Gardens.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Rock Gardens opposite Preston Park

Preston Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast urban park offering playgrounds, sports facilities, and event spaces, adjacent to historic Preston Manor and adventurous Rock Gardens.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"Fantastic place to bring the children nice long walks and just across the road there's a rock garden that the little ones can have an adventure."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Event Parking Advice

Parking can be challenging during major events; consider public transport or walking if attending concerts .

☕ Cafe Options

Two cafes available: Rotunda (south) and Chalet Cafe (central), open daily.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Playgrounds & Open Spaces

Playgrounds & Open Spaces

Various locations within the park

Expansive green areas perfect for picnics, games, and leisurely strolls, with dedicated playgrounds for children.

Preston Manor

Preston Manor

Adjacent to the park

A historic manor house offering a glimpse into Edwardian life, complementing a park visit.

Rock Gardens

Rock Gardens

Across the road from the park

An adventurous spot with rock paths, waterfalls, and a sandy play area, a hit with families.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Concert & Event Hub

Preston Park is a major venue for concerts and fairs, including Brighton Pride. Check event schedules in advance, as this can significantly impact crowds and accessibility. Booking accommodation near the park is recommended for event attendees.Reddit

Family Fun & Relaxation

This large urban park offers extensive green spaces, playgrounds, and cafes, making it ideal for family outings. Nearby attractions like the Rock Gardens add to the appeal for a full day of adventure.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Ideal for picnics and outdoor activities
Crowd
Medium
When
During major events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, live entertainment
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Opinion on Preston Park?

🚗 Event Parking Advice

Parking can be challenging during major events; consider public transport or walking if attending concerts.Reddit

☕ Cafe Options

Two cafes available: Rotunda (south) and Chalet Cafe (central), open daily.

reddit.com

Safe for family in Upper Lewes Road or Preston Park area?

reddit.com

Hotels in Brighton - Preston Park

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

A popular spot for dog walkers, expect to see many friendly canine companions.

🎟️ Event Ticket Prices

Be aware that event tickets and on-site purchases can be pricey.Reddit

reddit.com

Question time! What’s your favourite park in Brighton and why?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Event Parking Advice

Parking can be challenging during major events; consider public transport or walking if attending concerts.Reddit

☕ Cafe Options

Two cafes available: Rotunda (south) and Chalet Cafe (central), open daily.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes

A popular spot for dog walkers, expect to see many friendly canine companions.

🎟️ Event Ticket Prices

Be aware that event tickets and on-site purchases can be pricey.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Preston Park for its expansive green spaces, excellent playgrounds, and family-friendly atmosphere, especially with the nearby Rock Gardens. It's a popular venue for major events, though these can lead to large crowds and higher costs. Some find it too busy during peak times.

"Fantastic place to bring the children nice long walks and just across the road there's a rock garden that the little ones can have an adventure going up and down the rock path.
There's a sandy area with swings and slides and a few cafes on site what more do you need for a great day out"

peter lea

"Preston Park, although not near the centre of Brighton, is worth a visit for the wide open space, peaceful setting and other surrounding attractions such as Preston Manor and the Rock Gardens. Various facilities including tennis courts and basketball courts, plus a choice of two cafes, the Rotunda (south end, beside the rose garden) or the Chalet Cafe (right in the middle and now open seven days a week). Sometimes also hosts a travelling circus (check online) as well as other events, including Pride On The Park which this year saw a headline performance by Mariah Carey."

Stephen James

"Full of joy and friendly dogs. Tennis courts, a cafe, lots of open green spaces. Too busy for us unless it's raining haha x"

Taylor Howard

What People Like

Spacious green areas
Great playgrounds
Family-friendly atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crowded during events
Event prices can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Preston Park is located north of Brighton city centre. You can reach it via a short bus ride (many routes stop nearby) or a pleasant walk of about 20-30 minutes. For concert attendees, booking accommodation near the park is often recommended.Reddit

Yes, Preston Park is well-served by local buses. Several routes stop along Preston Road, making it convenient to reach from various parts of Brighton.

Limited parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially during events. Street parking in the surrounding residential areas may also be an option, but be mindful of local restrictions.

Cycling is a great option, with dedicated cycle paths in and around Brighton. There are usually cycle racks available within the park.

Preston Park is not in the immediate city centre but is a significant landmark north of it. It's a popular destination for events like concerts and Brighton Pride.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General entry to Preston Park is free. However, tickets are required for specific events like concerts, fairs, and circuses held within the park.

Preston Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific event timings will vary and should be checked on the event organizer's website.

No, the playgrounds within Preston Park are free to use for all visitors.

Information about upcoming events, including concerts and fairs, can typically be found on local council websites, event promoter pages, or by searching online for 'Preston Park Brighton events'.

Preston Manor is a separate attraction and usually has an admission fee. It's advisable to check their official website for current prices and opening times.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The park offers playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, open green spaces, and two cafes (Rotunda and Chalet Cafe). There are also public restrooms.

Yes, there are two cafes: the Rotunda Cafe near the rose garden and the Chalet Cafe located centrally, which is open seven days a week.

Absolutely! Preston Park features excellent playgrounds, sandy play areas, and is adjacent to the Rock Gardens, which offer further adventure for kids.Reddit

Yes, the park has facilities for tennis and basketball. You can often book courts in advance.

Definitely. With its vast open lawns and pleasant atmosphere, it's a popular spot for picnics, especially during warmer months.

📸 📸 Photography

The rose garden, the open lawns with mature trees, and the exterior of Preston Manor offer picturesque photo opportunities. The Rock Gardens also provide unique, natural backdrops.

During concerts or fairs, the vibrant atmosphere and crowds can make for dynamic event photography. However, be prepared for large numbers of people.Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or filming, you may need to seek permission from the park authorities.

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for landscape and portrait photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing playground action.

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and privacy. It's best to check local regulations or contact the park management before flying a drone.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Preston Park is a fantastic destination for families. The well-equipped playgrounds and expansive green areas are perfect for letting kids burn off energy. Don't miss the Rock Gardens across the road for an extra dose of adventure, complete with rock paths and waterfalls.Reddit The central Chalet Cafe is a convenient spot for snacks and meals. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the busiest times.

🎶 Concert & Event Goers

If you're heading to Preston Park for a concert or major event like Brighton Pride, booking accommodation nearby is highly recommended.Reddit Be prepared for large crowds and potentially higher prices for on-site purchases.Reddit Check event schedules in advance to plan your visit and travel arrangements. Public transport is often a better option than driving due to limited parking.

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strollers & Dog Walkers

For a peaceful escape, weekday mornings offer a tranquil experience with fewer visitors.Reddit The park's wide paths and open lawns are perfect for leisurely walks, and it's a popular spot for dog walkers, so expect to encounter many friendly canine companions. The rose garden and surrounding greenery provide a pleasant backdrop for a relaxing stroll.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Events and Concerts at Preston Park

Preston Park is renowned as a major venue for large-scale events, most notably Brighton Pride's 'Pride in the Park'.Reddit This transforms the park into a vibrant hub of music, entertainment, and community celebration. Beyond Pride, the park frequently hosts major concerts, attracting headline artists and thousands of attendees. Past performers have included global superstars like Mariah Carey.Reddit When attending these events, be prepared for significant crowds and potential price increases for amenities like food and drink.Reddit It's wise to check event schedules well in advance and consider accommodation nearby if you're traveling specifically for a concert.Reddit

Family Adventures Beyond the Playground

While Preston Park boasts excellent playgrounds and vast open spaces for running around, the surrounding attractions significantly enhance its family appeal. Just across the road lies the Rock Gardens, a unique and adventurous spot featuring rock paths, small waterfalls, and a sandy play area that children adore.Reddit This makes it easy to combine a park visit with a more exploratory adventure. Furthermore, the historic Preston Manor, located adjacent to the park, offers a fascinating glimpse into Edwardian life, providing an educational and engaging experience for older children and adults alike.

Park Facilities and Amenities

For visitors looking to spend a full day at Preston Park, several amenities ensure comfort and convenience. The park features two cafes: the Rotunda Cafe, situated near the beautiful rose garden, and the Chalet Cafe, located more centrally and open seven days a week. These offer refreshments and light meals. In addition to the playgrounds, the park is equipped with tennis courts and basketball courts, providing opportunities for sports enthusiasts. Ample open green space makes it an ideal location for picnics, casual games, or simply relaxing on the grass.