Brighton, as you’ve never experienced it before

From street art to independent galleries and boutiques selling locally designed garments, Brighton is a veritable celebration of all things creative. If you want to check out the work of local artists and craftspeople, then make sure to head down to IO gallery, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of kiln-fired ceramics, handmade lampshades, prints, stained glass and jewellery. Fabrica, housed in a repurposed church, is home to many immersive art exhibitions, experimental life drawing classes, talks and screenings, so check out their programme before your trip. It’s also worth stopping by Two Kats and a Cow, Brighton’s oldest independent fine art gallery when you are down on the seafront.

For lovers of all things retro, pay a visit to Starfish Vintage Clothing, then make a pitstop at Across the Tracks vinyl store before heading to North Laine Bazaar or Snooper’s Paradise. For locally designed products, why not check out gomi studio for speakers made from non-recyclable waste plastics, Dressmith for handmade women’s sustainable clothing and Gresham Blake for wonderfully eccentric menswear?

If you’re up for something a bit more unusual, head to Japanese-themed ARTBOX Café, which is a must-see for all fans of Hello Kitty & Friends. Alternatively, at Munchies’ Craft Neon Café, you can treat yourself to a fruity waffle paired with a Mexican milkshake or a cocktail depending on your mood. The neon lights in this establishment will make it easy to spot. If you’re after a hidden gem, then head to Twisted Lemon Brighton for some light bar food and a cocktail. Fans of Fatboy Slim (a.k.a Norman Cook) should go for a coffee at Hove’s Big Beach Café, which he has owned for the past nine years and sometimes even works at!

For those who want to enjoy some live music, The Mesmerist is the perfect place to get a drink and while the night away. If you’re after a more unusual experience, then why not book yourself onto one of Guru Dudu’s Silent Disco Tours or unleash your inner ogre at the upcoming Shrek Rave at the end of September? MC Cashback’s Music Quiz at Dead Wax Social is a great event for music lovers on Wednesday nights. The World’s End, a pub complete with arcade games, a remote-control race track, an escape room and great vegan cuisine by Vegan Noms, is a great alternative to a traditional pub if you fancy a pint in an unusual setting.

If your trip would be a drag without a bit of drag, then Proud Cabaret Brighton, Club Revenge and The Queens Arms offer regular drag events, so make sure you don’t forget your feather boa on the train, darling. Now get your ticket and head down to Brighton!

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