With minimal fuss and cost how do I tell what soil type I have?

Hi Missclueless. welcome to GOY. Living in Brighton you must be on chalky soil. That means avoiding Acers Azales Rhododendrons and several other acid loving plants and shrubs, unless you grow them in containers. Your best bet is to look at what is growing in neighbouring gardens. You are near the sea so that makes it possible to grow some of the less hardy plants and shrubs, but also limits your choice to those that hate salt in the air. I am sure other members will be more helpful.

take a hand full and squeeze it if it falls apart its sandy if it forms a ball like plasticine its clay if its neither its ok. very rough and ready but a reasonable guide. as to acid/alkaline poaannua seems to know your area.