There is something undeniably magical about the Sussex coastline. It’s a place where the vibrant energy of city life meets the raw, elemental beauty of the English Channel. And there is no better way to experience this dramatic contrast than from the top deck of a Brighton & Hove bus.
The Coaster 14 and 14C routes are your ticket to a car-free adventure, sweeping you away from the bustling heart of Brighton and out towards the rolling cliffs and maritime heritage of Newhaven. Whether you are a local looking for a breezy commute or a visitor eager to explore beyond the pier, this route offers a front-row seat to one of England’s most scenic stretches.
What makes this route special
While the famous route 12 often grabs the headlines for its long-haul run to Eastbourne, the Coaster 14 and 14C are the unsung heroes of the local coast. They offer a more intimate connection to the communities that hug the cliffs east of Brighton.
The journey is a visual treat. One moment you are gliding past Regency architecture and buzzing cafés, and the next, you are high above the waves with panoramic views of the chalk cliffs. It is a route of contrasts: the bohemian chic of Kemptown, the village charm of Rottingdean, the Art Deco glamour of Saltdean, and the working harbour grit of Newhaven. Plus, with buses running so frequently, you have the freedom to hop on and off whenever a view (or a pub) catches your eye.
A journey through the stops
The route heads eastwards, stringing together a series of unique destinations like pearls on a coastal necklace. Here is what you can look forward to along the way:
Your journey begins in the heart of this iconic seaside city. Before you board, you might want to wander through the North Laine or admire the exotic Royal Pavilion. As the bus sets off, you will pass the famous Sea Life Centre, the world’s oldest operating aquarium, right on the seafront. It’s the perfect starting marker for your coastal quest.
Leaving the city centre, the bus climbs into eclectic Kemptown. This neighbourhood feels like a village within a city, bursting with independent shops, antique bookstores, and a fiercely independent spirit. Keep an eye out for the stunning crescents of houses that look out to sea—grandeur with a funky twist.
Descending towards the water, you will pass the Marina. It’s a hub of leisure with a backdrop of white yachts bobbing in the harbour. If you are hungry, this is a great pit-stop for waterside dining, or you can simply admire the engineering from the window as the bus begins its climb up the cliffs.
Just a few miles east, the pace slows down. Rottingdean is a picturesque village that was once home to Rudyard Kipling. With its historic windmill on the hill and a smuggling history hidden in its old pubs, it’s a charming place to explore. The bus drops you right near the village green and the gap in the cliffs leading to the beach.
As the bus hugs the coast road, you will arrive in Saltdean. The star of the show here is the magnificent Saltdean Lido, a restored Art Deco masterpiece that looks like an ocean liner run aground. The white cliffs here are spectacular, and the undercliff walk offers a chance to stretch your legs right by the waves.
Perched high on the cliff tops, Peacehaven offers some of the most expansive sky and sea views on the route. It is also the point where the Prime Meridian crosses the coast—marked by a monument that you can visit. It’s a place of quiet horizons and fresh sea air.
The route concludes in the historic port town of Newhaven. Rich in maritime history, it is home to the impressive Newhaven Fort, which commands views over the channel and offers a fascinating glimpse into WWII history. You can watch the ferries depart for France or enjoy a fresh seafood lunch near the harbour.
When does the route run?
The Coaster 14 and 14C service is incredibly reliable, running seven days a week.
- Daily Service: Buses run from early morning until late at night, making it perfect for both early risers catching the sunrise and night owls returning from a dinner in the city.
- Night Bus: For those enjoying Brighton’s famous nightlife, the N14 night bus ensures you can always get back to the coastal towns safely in the early hours.
Frequency and connections
One of the best things about this route is the frequency. During the day, you rarely have to wait long.
- Route 14: This is the main service, running frequently between Brighton and Peacehaven/Newhaven.
- Route 14C: This variation often runs at peak times or provides specific direct links, extending the reach or offering a slightly different routing through the towns.
Top Tip: Always check the destination blind on the front of the bus. While most 14s go to Peacehaven (Meridian Centre), some continue to Newhaven. If your destination is Newhaven, make sure you board a 14 or 14C that goes the full distance, or be prepared to swap buses at Peacehaven.
Value for money
Travelling by bus in this region is exceptional value, especially compared to the cost of parking in Brighton.
- Fare Cap: Be sure to check for current government fare caps (often £2 for a single journey), which make this scenic trip cheaper than a cup of coffee.
- Tap On, Tap Off: Brighton & Hove Buses use a seamless contactless system. Simply tap your bank card or phone when you get on and tap off when you leave. The system automatically calculates the best fare for you and caps your daily spend, so you never pay more than a Day Ticket price no matter how many trips you take.
- Family Tickets: If you are travelling as a group, ask the driver about group savers or family day tickets for even better value.
Top tips for the journey
- Sit Upstairs: For the best experience, head straight to the top deck. The front seats offer a cinema-screen view of the road ahead, but the seats on the right-hand side (travelling East from Brighton) give you uninterrupted views of the glittering sea and the dramatic cliff drops.
- Timing: Try to time your return journey for sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as you travel back towards the lights of Brighton is truly memorable.
- Windproof Layers: It can be breezy on the cliffs at Peacehaven and Saltdean, even on sunny days. Bring a layer so you can enjoy the walks comfortably.
Planning a day out
Why not make a full day of it? Start with a late breakfast in Kemptown, then hop on the bus to Rottingdean for a wander through the Kipling Gardens. Back on the bus, head to Newhaven Fort for an afternoon of history. On your way back, stop off at Saltdean for an ice cream on the beach or a drink at a cliff-top café in Peacehaven to watch the waves crash.
The Coaster 14 and 14C offer more than just transport; they offer an escape. So leave the car keys at home, grab your camera, and let the bus take you on a journey along the stunning Sussex edge.
