The quirky seaside town of Brighton is known as the unofficial ‘gay capital’ of the UK. Not only famed for beautiful beaches and sticks of rock but also a liberal and open-minded attitude when it comes to diversity. Brighton has been at the epi-centre of LGBT+ culture since the 1930s, and Gay & Lesbian Brighton continues to thrive. Boasting a wealth of gay bars and clubs, LGBT+ centred events, and gay-friendly hotels, Brighton makes for an ideal gay or lesbian holiday in Europe.
Having grown up in England, Brighton has been in my blood since I was a child. Being only a 1.5 hours drive from London to Brighton, we would often visit during the Summertime. So visiting Brighton now, as a (young) adult, I can’t help but feel incredibly nostalgic. The great thing is, not much has changed from the Brighton I once knew. From the iconic pier and stripy deckchairs to the beautiful pebbled beach and scent of fish & chips, it’s all pretty much how I remember it. Only, it all seems a little more ‘gay’ now.
You see, Gay Brighton’s welcoming and unbiased attitude is evident throughout the beachside town. You only have to wander the colourful streets, to find there are rainbow murals and references everywhere. And by everywhere, I mean everywhere. By the end of our visit, I felt as if I had rainbows coming out of my a*se! Wait a minute, I probably do. Anyway, what I’m trying to say is, you needn’t worry about being accepted in Brighton. Show up as you are and you’ll seamlessly fit in.
So with all this in mind, we have put together this comprehensive travel guide for Gay & Lesbian Brighton. We’ve listed all of the hottest gay bars and nightclubs; gay-friendly hotels and hostels; the best LGBT+ centred events; as well as all the top things to do around the city. We will also touch on LGBT+ rights and social opinions in the UK, so you come fully prepared.
Jump to...
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates – you are awesome, and we thank you!
LBGT+ Rights in the UK
Same-Sex Sexual Activity: Legal since 2000.
Same-Sex Marriage: Legal since 2013.
Rights to Change Legal Gender: Legal since 2005 (no surgery required.)
Same-Sex Adoption: Legal since 2002.
LGBT Discrimination: Illegal since 2010.
If you are keen to learn more, Equaldex elaborates further on LGBT+ rights in the UK.
Like most places around the world, the road to LGBT+ acceptance in the UK has been a volatile one. Historically, being gay clashed with the idea of being a ‘good’ Christian. Which meant acts of homosexuality between men were punishable by death. Women were never subject to the same legal restrictions; however, would often be punished by the law nonetheless.
When you consider the liberal society the UK is today, it’s encouraging to think how dramatically LGBT+ rights have evolved. While acts of homosexuality got decriminalised in 1967, it was only with the turn of the 21st century that we have seen the most progression. In the past two decades, we’ve not only accomplished equal rights for the LGBT+ community, but the UK is now considered one of the most gay-friendly countries in Europe.
Growing up gay in the UK, we can both vouch for this whirlwind turn of events. We both recall being at school and barely even knowing what a lesbian was. And the term ‘so gay‘ merely described something pathetic or uncool. Now elements of LGBT+ culture are prevalent throughout society, and while acts of discrimination do happen, they are rare. In fact, recent polls show most of the UK supports gay marriage and believes homosexuality should be accepted.
Is Brighton Safe for LGBT+ Travellers?
Despite some unsavoury reports regarding LGBT+ safety in Britain, the UK, especially Brighton, is considered safe for gay travellers. It even states on the Visit Brighton website:
“Brighton & Hove is proud to be a friendly and welcoming city which encourages a large number of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender visitors.“
We, like many of our gay friends, visit Brighton regularly, and on no occasion have we felt even the slightest bit uncomfortable. There are recent incidents of hate crime and discrimination; however, sadly, this is the world we live in. We never judge a place based on the actions of a few small-minded bigots.
Related Read
The Brighton Gay Scene
The Brighton gay scene is iconic amidst British LGBT+ folk, and not without good reason. Gay Brighton has something for everybody, regardless of which letter of the ever-growing acronym you are. Not only is it inclusive, but the gay scene is vibrant and diverse. From all-night parties to chic cocktail bars, to quirky cafes and steamy saunas, Brighton guarantees a good time for all.
You will find elements of the gay scene sprinkled all over Brighton; however, the most popular area of Gay Brighton is the Gay Village. Located in the Kemptown district, here you’ll find an amalgamation of gay bars, clubs, saunas, shops, hotels and people. And it’s every bit as fabulous as one might imagine!
Get the best deals on travel insurance!
If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Or perhaps you have your bag stolen, or a flight cancelled. Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected.
Get a Quote From World NomadsGay Nightlife in Brighton
The gay nightlife in Brighton rivals that of London, Manchester, and even Berlin! It honestly feels like Pride every day in Gay Brighton, with the wealth of gay pubs, bars, and nightclubs waving the rainbow flag loud and proud for all to see. Having said that, you shouldn’t feel like you have to stick to strictly gay venues. The Brighton nightlife, in general, is wild and open-minded, so you can always expect to be in like-minded company.
Nonetheless, you would be foolish to visit Gay Brighton and not sample what the gay nightlife has to offer. From extravagant drag shows and fetish clubs, to traditional English pubs and cocktail bars, there is truly something for everyone. So, let’s take a look at the best gay nightlife in Brighton.
Gay Pubs in Brighton
Charles Street Tap: The Queens of Craft! Charles Street Tap is a sizeable gay pub in the heart of the gay village. Not only famous for their craft beers fit for a queen, but also their award-winning cabaret and extensive gin selection. They are also proud of their traditional pub grub menu which includes everything from burgers to pizzas and a traditional Sunday lunch. During the day, relax with food and a beer. During the evening, party the night away. A great all-rounder!
The Prestonville Arms: Owned by a gay couple, but not a gay pub per se, The Prestonville Arms is a prime example of your classic British local. Located a little outside of the city centre, it’s not as lively as most other gay pubs in Brighton. But it’s a nice spot to escape to when you fancy a quiet beer and a meal. Serving a wide selection of real ales alongside hearty pub grub, they are often voted one of the top 10 pubs in Brighton.
The Marine Tavern: One of the more laidback gay establishments in Brighton, the Marine Tavern is a humble pub and guesthouse. With the traditional feels of a local English pub, combined with the campness of a gay bar, the venue attracts a diverse and friendly crowd. Expect themed nights during the week, and a lively atmosphere at the weekend.
The Camelford Arms: Set within walking distance of the beach, The Camelford Arms is an award-winning pub in Brighton. Amongst the LGBT+ community, it’s the spot for bears and their admirers; however, the great beer, cheap food, and chic ambience attracts a mixed and alternative crowd. The great value-for-money Sunday lunch is infamous and provides the perfect hangover cure after your weekend antics in Gay Brighton.
The Bedford Tavern: Slightly tucked away in Brighton, The Bedford Tavern is a gay-friendly pub with a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Sundays are especially popular, thanks to a delicious roast dinner menu and ‘piano bingo’ of an evening.
Gay Bars in Brighton
Legends Bar: One of the most popular gay bars in Brighton, Legends is your stereotypical commercial bar. There’s nothing entirely special to rave or complain about, but it’s always busy, so that says something. It’s pleasant during the Summer, as you can enjoy a drink on the sprawling terrace overlooking the beach. By night, the bar pumps your cheesy queer anthems into the early hours, attracting a mixed, fun-loving LGBT+ crowd. Also worth checking out the subterranean Basement Club, located downstairs.
Amsterdam Bar: Located directly on the seafront, just minutes away from the pier, Amsterdam Bar is a modern and somewhat classy establishment amidst the Brighton gay scene. Jump on the G&T bandwagon, with their range of high-quality gins including locally produced artisan gins. Or if you’re hungry, enjoy a meal from their extensive menu of pub classics. During the Summer, the sizeable outdoor terrace is a sweet spot to hang out and marvel the sea views.
Bulldog: Brighton’s oldest gay bar, Bulldog first opened its doors in the 1970s and has been catering to a mixed LGBT+ crowd ever since. It’s a bit of a rough and ready venue, but if you can see past the uncleanliness, it’s great for a good laugh. Entertainment includes weekly cabarets, karaoke, and live DJ’s, and it’s most popular at the weekends when they are open until 3 am.
Le Village: Relatively new on the Brighton gay scene so still establishing a name for itself, Le Village is a quirky bar located in the gay village. Being relatively compact inside it can often feel busy, even if there are only a few dozen people there. The atmosphere is great fun though, with entertainment ranging from drag open mic nights to live DJs.
Affinity Bar: Again, a new addition to Gay Brighton, but this trendy cocktail bar is already making a name for itself. With modern, chic, and inviting interior, the intimate venue is perfect for a date or to enjoy a quiet drink with friends. Of course, their ample cocktail menu is also worth mentioning, with concoctions that will keep you here for hours!
Gay Nightclubs in Brighton
Club Revenge: The most famous gay club in Brighton, and our personal favourite, Club Revenge is a happening night club with an incredible atmosphere. Located a stone’s throw from the iconic palace pier, it goes to show how inclusive the city is. Gay Brighton is not forced to hide; instead, this gay club stands proud next to the cities most recognisable attraction. Dance the night away on the two state-of-the-art dancefloors, or enjoy quiet drinks next-door at Bar Revenge. Either way, you’re in for a great night.
Concorde2: Not a gay club, but positively gay-friendly, Concorde2 is another of our favourite venues in Brighton. Submerged within the Victorian arches of Brighton Seafront, the club attracts a mixed alternative crowd with its jam-packed events calendar of live bands and world-renowned DJ’s. Despite the big acts appearing here, you can expect a relatively intimate affair, with the clubs capacity limited to 600 people.
Green Door Store: Intimate and oh-so-cool, Green Door store is a live music venue located beneath Brighton Train Station. The welcoming club aims to provide a little something for everyone, resulting in some superb queer events amidst their events calendar. Despite its solid reputation, we love that the owners have remained humble. Entry is often free to get in, and drinks prices are reasonable relative to other clubs in the city.
Subline: If the venues above all sound too vanilla for you, perhaps Subline, Brighton’s most famous fetish and sex club, will satisfy your desires. From Thursdays to Sundays, the venue is men only, but Wednesday nights are open to a mixed crowd. Lurking in the depths of the dark and dingy club, you’ll find poles, cages, chains, and other guilty pleasures. Check out the calendar for fetish specific events.
Related Read
Lesbian Brighton
Considering Brighton’s reputation as a ‘gay mecca’, we were hopeful for a juicy scene for women who love women. However, dissimilar to other places in the world, Lesbian Brighton has struggled to keep its head above water. Through the years, many optimistic lesbian bars have opened, only to shut up shop not so long afterwards. Several factors contribute to the reasons behind this, and I prefer to leave the politics to somebody else; however, I do agree it is a pity the lesbian culture is bordering on extinct.
That’s not to say there isn’t any fun to be had for Lesbians in Brighton. Many of the gay clubs and bars above welcome a lesbian clientele, including Bulldog, Legends Bar, and Club Revenge. And below, you’ll find a couple of venues, that despite not branding themselves as such, are the last remaining lesbian bars in Brighton.
Lesbian Bars in Brighton
Velvet Jacks: Voted Best Women’s Bar, Velvet Jacks have done a fantastic job to keep Lesbian Brighton alive with their cosy and welcoming venue. Regular patrons highly regard the owner, who always goes above and beyond to show everybody a good time. Weekly entertainment includes themed nights, quizzes, and live music. Not to mention, the excellent cocktails and delicious food.
The Marlborough: Somewhat of an institution in Lesbian Brighton, The Marlborough, or ‘The Marly’, has associated with LGBT+ culture since the 1970s. Although, the bar’s mysterious history spans back way further to the late 1700s. Today, the venue is part bar, part theatre, especially popular with transgender and lesbian visitors. The bar downstairs is relaxed and welcoming. While the theatre upstairs presents a range of cutting-edge LGBT cultural performances.
Giu and Su: Fitting right in amid the labyrinth of Brighton’s alternative North Laine district, Giu and Su is a bohemian themed wine bar owned by lesbians of the same name. We love the vibe of this venue, with its arty detail and super cool ambience. With a tantalising menu of fine wine and coffee, it’s the perfect spot to stop by for a drink when exploring or shopping in the area.
LGBT+ Events in Brighton
Brighton’s vibrant gay scene is an all-year-round affair, with the crisp Winter months being just as exciting as the steamy Summers. At the same time, there are several annual LGBT+ centred events worth considering when planning your trip. Here is a list of the hottest LGBT+ events in Brighton.
LGBT+ History Month (February): As the name suggests, this month-long event aims to address the evolution of LGBT+ culture through the ages. It also celebrates the lives and achievements of inspiring people in the LGBT+ community, through film, art, discussions, and more.
Brighton Bear Weekend (June): An annual event geared towards bears, cubs, and their friends, Brighton Bear Weekend is one of the biggest events of its kind in the UK. Expect four days of fur fun in the sun, with cabarets, club nights, and so much more.
Trans Pride (July): Reiterating the inclusiveness of this liberal city, Brighton was the first city in Europe to host a trans pride, which has been running now for several years. This festival, which puts the T first, is celebrated similarly to Pride. Expect a big party in the park, parades, club nights, and a wonderful arts programme.
Brighton Pride (August): Arguably the best pride event in the UK, and maybe even Europe, people travel from all around the world to take part in the 2-day festivities. Celebrating all that is great about Brighton and its acceptance of the LGBT+ community, this is one you don’t want to miss!
Gay-Friendly and Gay Hotels in Brighton
As you can imagine, most hotels in Brighton are gay-friendly and will happily welcome LGBT+ travellers. After all, it is illegal in the UK to discriminate against same-sex couples when renting a room. However, we completely understand the need to feel accepted and treated equally. Not to mention being located nearby the gay scene and mixing with like-minded people. With this in mind, we have researched all of the best rated gay-friendly hotels in Brighton. We’ve done the leg work and put together this list to suit all budgets and interests.
Kipps Backpackers Brighton $ – Ideal for backpackers on a budget, Kipps hostel provides a safe and welcoming space where solo LGBT+ travellers can socialise and meet other people. Located within walking distance of the gay village and other Brighton attractions, it’s both convenient and affordable. Facilities at the hostel include a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals, a games room, and a terrace with licensed bar.
Jurys Inn Brighton $ – Located directly next door to Brighton Train Station, Jurys Inn is an ideal choice for LGBT+ couples travelling on a budget. It’s a little bit of a walk to reach the beach and the gay village; however, providing such great value for money, this is a small price to pay. The guest rooms are modern, bright, and spacious, featuring everything you need for a comfortable stay. And facilities of the hotel include a bar, restaurant, and chill-out areas.
Legends Hotel $$ – If you want to be in the very heart of Gay Brighton, Legends Hotel is a top choice for LGBT+ travellers. Here you can enjoy rooms with a sea view, with all the best gay nightlife and Brighton attractions right on your doorstep. The hotel also boasts the infamous Legend Bar and Club, so you don’t need to venture far to get in amongst the action. Party the night away knowing you have a comfortable room to return to and a delicious buffet breakfast the next morning!
Amsterdam Hotel $$ – An award-winning hotel in Brighton, Amsterdam Hotel has been a favourite amongst the LGBT+ community for decades. Again, it’s located right in the heart of all the gay action, so it’s incredibly convenient as well as affordable. Enjoy clean and newly decorated guest rooms, with some providing stunning views over the iconic palace pier. Downstairs, enjoy a classy G&T in the Amsterdam Bar – Regarded as one of the best gay bars in Brighton.
My Brighton $$$ – When it comes to decor, My Brighton is as camp as it gets. We’ve never stayed here ourselves, but boy, do we want to! Particularly the suite which has an actual horse carousel statue placed slap bang in the middle of the room. Each guestroom at this boutique hotel is unique and appealing, fused with modern technology and luxury amenities. Located in the North Laine area of Brighton, the cities best shopping is right on your doorstep, with the gay village just minutes away. Definitely check out the on-site Indian restaurant as well as the signature cocktails at the Merkaba bar.
Malmaison Brighton $$$ – Another hotel that screams home decor goals, Malmaison Brighton is another top choice for LGBT+ travellers. Located directly on the seafront just a short walk from the Palace Pier, this luxury hotel boasts modern rooms with monsoon showers and balconies looking out to the water. Onsite facilities include a fully-fledged bar and restaurant, serving a wealth of international fare.
You can also check out many other accommodation options in Brighton here. Or use the Map below to see all your options:
Gay Saunas in Brighton
There is one famous gay sauna in Brighton, and that’s the aptly named ‘Brighton Sauna’. It’s one of the biggest saunas in the UK, featuring a dry sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, cinema, private cabins, glory holes, slings, showers, and three dark rooms. They also offer massages and other spa treatments. The sauna is at its busiest on Naked Sundays and Wednesdays. But you’re guaranteed some fun on any night of the week. This sauna is strictly for men only.
Things to do in Gay & Lesbian Brighton
While Brighton’s gay scene is iconic and internationally acclaimed, there is more to it than wild parties and drinking holes. Once you’ve shaken off the hangover, we encourage you to head out and explore what else Gay Brighton has to offer.
LGBT Walking Tours
If you’re keen to learn more about the fascinating history behind LGBT+ culture in Brighton, we highly recommend the Piers & Queers Tour hosted by Only in Brighton. Learn how the city earned its title of the ‘gay capital’ of Britain, alongside a 90-minute walk through the beach and city centre. You’ll take in over 200 years of history, including Regency Dandies and 1950s queer life, as well as political activism and the lives of inspiring pioneers.
LGBT Public Art & Sculptures
Brighton is home to several public art & sculpture pieces that celebrate the history of LGBT+ culture. See if you can spot them on your adventures around the city.
Kissing Policemen: Scribbled on the side of the iconic Prince Albert pub, the Kissing Policemen is a piece by the street art legend Banksy. The original was recently removed and sold to a collector, but a permanent copy of the two male policemen kissing remains.
The Kissing Wall: If you take a stroll along the Brighton promenade, you’re likely to encounter the famous kissing wall. The large aluminium column sits parallel with the seafront, showing 6 images of people kissing of all ages and sexualities.
Aids Memorial Structure: Situated in New Steine gardens, the Aids Memorial structure is a bronze sculpture of two men soaring towards the sky. The statue causes the shadow of a ribbon on the ground, reflective of the world symbol for HIV & Aids awareness.
Chase the Rainbow Street Art
As I mentioned at the beginning of the article, rainbow murals are all over the city of Brighton. Look out for them adorned on the sides of buildings or painted along the seafront, and you’ll even find rainbow-themed beach huts. All make for great photo opportunities, and we shamelessly took pictures with every single one!
Brighton Gay Beach
Brighton may not be one of the few sandy beaches located close to London; however, it’s beautiful nonetheless. And wherever you lay your towel on Brighton’s pebble beaches, you won’t be so much as a stone’s throw away from a fellow LGBT+. However, if you’re interested, there is an unofficial gay beach in Brighton situated by the marina. Which just so happens to be a nudist beach as well – surprise surprise! Just a word of warning, the coastline in Brighton is notorious for being dangerous due to high winds and steep shingle drop-offs. Please read this article on how to stay safe on Brighton’s beaches before attempting to get into the water.
Attend a Queer Comedy Show
On the first Sunday of every month, the celebrated Brighton comedy club ‘Komedia‘ hosts ‘Bent Double‘. A gay-friendly, irreverent night of fun and frolics, that’s guaranteed to have you in stitches. Check out the website for show dates, line ups, and to book your ticket.
Save Time and Book a Tour
For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide:
Other Things to do in Brighton
Brighton makes for the perfect weekend trip in the UK, and while you could easily spend the entire time exploring the gay scene, you’ll want to see what else the seaside town has to offer. So when planning out your itinerary, make sure to save some time for these famous Brighton attractions.
Visit the Iconic Palace Pier
Without a doubt, the top thing to do in Brighton, and the place you’ll think of when you reminisce on your time here. (Other than the gay village, of course!) The iconic Palace Pier has been Brighton’s most recognisable landmark since the late 1800s. 525-metres long, packed to bursting with candy floss stalls, arcade games, theme park rides, and all kinds of madness, you can’t help but feel like a big kid again.
Go on a Cycling Tour of Brighton
What better way to experience this glorious seaside town, than feeling the fresh sea breeze in your face as you cruise around on two wheels. Experience Brighton by bike on a leisurely 2.5-hour guided tour. Explore the bohemian back streets of North Laine, the striking architecture of the Royal Pavilion, the quaint Fishing Quarter, Georgian architecture of Brunswick Square, and much more. The advantage of a guided tour is you’ll cover all the highlights strategically in one morning or afternoon, ensuring you make the very most of your time.
Tip – When we book tours, we always use Get Your Guide – Book Your Grand Brighton Bike Tour here.
Get Lost in ‘The Lanes’
Once the hub of an old fishing town, The Lanes are now a labyrinth of shopping opportunity, boasting an array of independent shops, boutiques, and jewellers. Especially in the North Laine area, there’s a real bohemian theme going on with vintage and antique stores aplenty. If you like to get creative with your style, you will undoubtedly be in your element. When you get tired, The Lanes have their fair share of chic cafes and traditional English pubs. Positioned in the perfect spot to people watch, and to admire how effortlessly colourful and carefree everybody is.
Ride the British Airway i360
The British Airways i360 is a 162-metre observation tower that opened to the public in 2016. Its purpose is to allow visitors to experience 360-degree views across Brighton and the surrounding area. While its location is quite a walk from the city centre, you’ll find it hard to miss the other-worldly structure from miles around. It’s futuristic in design and especially impressive at night when it lights up. Quite an expensive attraction, but if you only plan to visit Brighton once, why not.
Tip – When we book tours, we always use Get Your Guide – Book Your Ticket Now and Skip the Line: British Airway i360 Fast Track Ticket
Marvel the Royal Pavilion
Just when you thought Brighton couldn’t get any more diverse, they throw an Asian style building into the mix. But, the Royal Pavilion isn’t just any Asian style building. It is a Grade I listed former royal residence – which means it’s pretty damn important. Built-in the 1800s for King George IV, the architectural marvel is a seamless blend of Indian and Chinese influence. It’s a spot you must see when visiting Brighton, which boasts fabulous gardens and must-do tours.
Find the Upside Down House
An Upside Down House in Brighton? How fitting! Seeking some fun for all the family, this is it. Travelling with big kids? That’s ok too. This fun attraction allows you to take to some amusing illusion photos and is guaranteed to inspire some laughs, regardless of your age. You don’t have to walk far to find the Upside Down House. It makes for a nice walk along the promenade and is directly next to the famous rainbow mural on the seafront.
Eat World-Famous Fish & Chips
In the UK, when you visit a seaside town, it’s an unspoken law that you eat fish & chips. Don’t ask me why. Well, it likely has something to do with the fresh fish coming from the sea. But anyway, if you want to be traditional, and sample the local British cuisine, this is it. Italy has pizza, Spain has paella, and England has Fish & Chips. Our favourite spot in Brighton is Bankers, and you’ll struggle to find anywhere better. Just trust me on this one!
Related Read
Tips & Advice for Gay Travellers in Brighton
While Brighton is considered safe for LGBT+ travellers, naturally there are some things to be aware of when enjoying your time here.
How to get to Brighton
Whether you’re travelling from within the UK or internationally, getting to Brighton is easy. Day trips from London to Brighton are common and if you’re coinciding your trip, it’s worth checking out all the best London travel tips.
It’s only a one hour journey via train from Central London and from London Gatwick Airport, just half an hour. You’ll also find good rail connections from most other major cities in the country. If you’re looking for ways to travel across England on a budget. using Trainline for cross-country travel is a good place to start.
You are not limited to train travel, however. Coaches are often a cheaper option, although the journey will be slightly longer. If you do decide to travel via coach, we encourage you to avoid the UK rush hour. You can check the routes and prices on National Express here.
One way systems and congested roads make driving in Brighton incredibly frustrating. It’s also tricky (and costly) to park in the city centre, so personally, we try to avoid driving altogether. Should you need to drive, the Just Park App offers the best deals on local parking.
Getting Around in Brighton
Getting around is also pretty straightforward. Brighton is a compact city, and if you are staying in the centre, you should find that most attractions, including nightlife and restaurants, are accessible on foot. Nonetheless, there is a reliable bus network should you need it, connecting you to all corners of the city.
If you’d prefer to take a taxi, there are taxi ranks dotted all over the city, including the train station. You can also hail unoccupied taxis down on the streets, which for some bizarre reason is always rather fun. Oh, and Uber operate here as well.
The Best Time to Visit Brighton
Brighton is an appealing destination all year round; however, the warmest and driest time of the year is from May to September. That said, this is England y’all, and unfortunately, the weather here is as unpredictable as our politics. Thankfully, regardless if it’s rain or shine in Brighton, there is plenty to keep you entertained. July and August is the peak season, with hotel and travel prices rising accordingly.
Staying Safe in Brighton
Relative to most cities in the UK, Brighton is one of the safest. The usual risks to tourists, such as pickpocketing and scams, are incredibly uncommon. Although, we still advise exercising the necessary precautions, such as padlocking your bag and avoiding dimly lit areas when alone.
We also urge you to familiarise yourself with beach safety protocol in Brighton. The coastline here is notoriously dangerous, due to extreme winds and steep shingle banks, making it difficult to enter and leave the water. Please read this safety guide before visiting any of Brighton’s beaches.
LGBT+ travellers needn’t worry about encountering hate crime or discrimination in Brighton. You can feel free to display public displays of affection with your significant other, and we encourage you to embrace the tolerant attitude of the city.
Travel Insurance
With this in mind, don’t even think about going to Brighton without travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. In the unlikely event something goes wrong, you’ll want the best cover money can buy.
For this reason, we always recommend World Nomads for travel insurance. They are affordable, offer a variety of packages and add ons, and allow you to make amendments to your policy while travelling. Say, for example, you go scuba diving or hiking a mountain, World Nomads will amend your plan accordingly. It’s a super handy feature we’ve used numerous times including the time we trekked to Annapurna Base Camp.
If you need further convincing, read our article on why you need travel insurance.
Get the best deals on travel insurance!
If you become sick or injured, those medical bills can really add up. Or perhaps you have your bag stolen, or a flight cancelled. Although these events are unlikely, they do happen, and having travel insurance gives you that extra piece of mind that you are protected.
Get a Quote From World NomadsFestivals and Events in Brighton
The Brighton events calendar is jam-packed, and no matter when you visit, there is guaranteed to be something going on. From major festivals and exhibitions to national sporting events and cultural affairs; there’s always something to keep you entertained! Check out the Visit Brighton website for this year’s juicy calendar events.
Meeting Other LGBT+ People in Brighton
With a thriving gay scene like Brighton, it’s incredibly easy to meet other members of the LGBT+ community. Although, we understand it isn’t always easy to stroll into a gay bar or event and attempt to make friends.
That is why the internet is such an excellent tool for connecting with like-minded individuals. We suggest using social media to locate other LGBT+ travellers or locals in Brighton. You can use Facebook, for example, to yield dedicated LGBT groups in the area. Similarly, navigating certain hashtags on Instagram such as #gaybrighton or #lgbtbrighton, can help you locate all things LGBT near you.
Similarly, dating apps can be a great way of connecting with like-minded people – and not necessarily for a hook-up. If you’re lucky, you could find yourself connecting with a local who can give you a full insider low down of the area. We always suggest using a secure VPN when surfing the web internationally. We can recommend Ivacy, the worlds fastest VPN service, click here to sign up!
Staying Connected in Brighton
If, like us, you rely on the internet when you travel (let’s face it, who doesn’t anymore), we have the perfect solution. After coming home to too many hefty phone bills and buying countless international sim cards, we were desperate for an affordable solution. Thankfully, we discovered TravelWifi. TravelWifi’s portable pocket wifi allows us to quickly and securely connect when we need it the most. Click the link for more information on coverage, packages, and the latest offers.
Did you enjoy our Guide to Gay & Lesbian Brighton?
Let us know! That concludes our guide to gay and lesbian Brighton. We hope you enjoy your time in this exciting city. If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below.
Don’t forget though, safety is paramount when visiting new destinations. Be sure to check out our safety tips for LGBTQ travellers and don’t underestimate the importance of travel insurance.
Stay adventurous and happy travels.
Planning a trip to England? Check out our UK series or our other LGBTQ+ Travel Guides to help with inspiration.
PIN IT FOR LATER
Get discounts & updates in our monthly newsletter
2 Responses
Fantastic guide to queer Brighton! Thanks for sharing
Hi Minka, we are so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much