Once just a small fishing village, Brighton has become a somewhat touristy seaside resort. Its two famous piers have taken a beating recently: One was completely destroyed by a storm, and the other was severely damaged by fire. Fortunately, the piers aren't what we like most about Brighton. Stroll the narrow streets past Georgian homes and 19th-century churches, stopping to visit the Dolls House (more than 300 dolls) and the onion-domed Royal Pavilion (Queen Victoria liked to stay at the pavilion, making believe it was an Indian palace). Opposite the Royal Pavilion is the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which takes advantage of interactive technology to showcase diverse collections of design, fashion, 19th-century ceramics and fine art. You can also relax at Brighton Beach, where skinny-dipping is allowed. We think Brighton is best seen as a day trip from London.