Dragons take over the Royal Pavilion in a magical new family adventure

Banner for Dragons exhibition. It reads Explore the Palace of Dragons. A blue background with an illustrated dragon head, the features of which are styled on the domes of the Royal Pavilion

Visitors are invited to hunt for hidden dragons, as a mysterious nest appears inside the historic palace.

For more than two centuries, dragons have inhabited the impressive ceilings and chandeliers of the Royal Pavilion. Now a mysterious dragon nest has appeared inside the palace, launching a playful new exhibition that invites families to explore the building and discover its hidden creatures.

Opening to the public on Saturday 28 March, this imaginative new experience transforms the Royal Pavilion into a world of discovery, where families, curious explorers and dragon detectives of all ages are encouraged to seek out dragons both old and new. From dramatic decorative beasts to tiny creatures tucked away in unexpected corners, visitors are invited to look more closely than ever at the Pavilion’s remarkable design and décor.

At the heart of the experience is The Great Dragon Count – a playful challenge to uncover just how many dragons live inside the palace. Despite the Pavilion’s rich dragon-filled interiors, no one has ever counted them all in the building’s 200-year history. Until now.

Visitors can submit their final dragon count during their visit or online for the chance to win a special family prize: two nights’ accommodation in DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole hotel, including access to spa facilities and an evening meal, to be redeemed in 2027.

The winner will be selected once the exhibition ends on 01 November 2026 and informed of the good news within 2 weeks of the exhibition ending.

The exhibition marks a new chapter for the Royal Pavilion, offering a fresh, family-focused way to experience one of Brighton’s most iconic landmarks, while celebrating the fantastical creatures that have always been part of its story.

Set within the Pavilion’s dazzling Regency interiors, the experience blends treasure hunt, storytelling adventure and a gentle introduction to the extraordinary craftsmanship and design that make the building unique.

“The Royal Pavilion has always been a palace of dragons – some bold and dramatic, others tiny and easy to miss. This exhibition invites families to become dragon detectives and discover just how many magical creatures are hiding in the palace.”

— Dr Alexandra Loske, Curator of Royal Pavilion & Historic Properties

Whether visitors are spotting a dragon curling through gilded decoration or discovering a newly arrived hatchling, the experience promises surprises around every corner.