Brighton is a seaside resort located in the unitary authority area of Brighton and Hove, in East Sussex, England, approximately 47 miles (76 km) south of London. Archaeological evidence indicates human settlement in the area dating back to the Bronze Age, Roman, and Anglo-Saxon periods. The ancient settlement known as "Brighthelmstone" was documented in the Domesday Book of 1086, establishing its presence as a recognized population center in medieval England.
The town's fortunes varied considerably throughout its history. While its importance grew during the Middle Ages as the Old Town developed, Brighton experienced decline during the early modern period, suffering from foreign attacks, storms, economic hardship, and population loss. The town's revival came through improved road transport connections to London and its emergence as a boarding point for boats traveling to France. Additionally, Brighton developed significant popularity as a health resort during this period, with sea bathing promoted as a therapeutic treatment for various illnesses, a practice that attracted growing numbers of visitors to the coastal settlement.