The history of Brighton & Hove
Brighton started as a small fishing village called Brighthelmstone in the early medieval period, by the 18th century, the town had become a popular seaside resort, thanks in part to the patronage of the Prince Regent, later King George IV, who commissioned the Royal Pavilion and other notable buildings.
Throughout the 19th century, Brighton continued to grow and develop as a popular holiday destination, with the opening of the railway in 1841 making it more accessible to visitors from London and other parts of the country.
It also became known for its lively entertainment scene, with the development of the famous Brighton Palace Pier and the establishment of music halls and theatres.
During the 20th century, Brighton faced some economic and social challenges, including a decline in tourism in the post-war years and tensions between different groups in the community.
However, it also saw significant redevelopment and regeneration, particularly in the 1980s and 90s, with the opening of new shopping centre’s and cultural venues, such as the Brighton Dome and Brighton Museum and Art Gallery. If you’re looking at the
Today, Brighton is a thriving and diverse city, known for its vibrant cultural scene, lively nightlife, and beautiful seaside location. If you’re looking for a mortgage in Brighton, get in touch with our expert mortgage brokers today!
Brighton & Hove Transport
Brighton has a well-connected transport system, with multiple options for getting around the city and surrounding areas.
The city has an extensive bus network, operated by Brighton & Hove Buses, which serves most areas of the city and runs frequent services throughout the day and into the night.
There are also several taxi companies operating in the city, as well as ride-hailing apps such as Uber.
Brighton also has a mainline train station, with frequent services to London and other destinations along the south coast. The journey to London takes around an hour.
For those who prefer to cycle, Brighton has a well-developed network of cycle lanes and paths, making it easy to get around by bike. Additionally, the city is relatively compact and walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy walking distance of each other.
Brighton & Hove Culture
Brighton and Hove has a vibrant and diverse culture with something for everyone. The city is known for its arts scene, including the Brighton Festival, the largest arts festival in England, which takes place every May. The festival features a variety of performances, exhibitions, and events across the city, including theater, dance, music, and visual arts.
Brighton also has a thriving music scene, with numerous live music venues and a variety of genres represented, from indie rock to electronic dance music. The city has produced several well-known bands and musicians over the years, including The Kooks, Fatboy Slim, and British Sea Power.
The city also has a strong LGBTQ+ community and is known for its inclusivity and acceptance. The Brighton Pride festival, which takes place every August, is one of the biggest pride events in the UK and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world.
In addition, Brighton and Hove has a rich history and is home to a variety of museums and cultural attractions, including the Royal Pavilion, a former royal palace built in the 18th century, and the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, which houses a collection of art and artifacts related to the city’s history.
Overall, Brighton and Hove offers a dynamic and diverse cultural landscape that reflects the city’s unique character and history.
Brighton & Hove Shopping
Brighton and Hove is known for its diverse shopping scene, offering a range of options from high street brands to independent boutiques and vintage shops. The city has several main shopping areas, including:
Churchill Square: This large indoor shopping center is located in the heart of the city and features over 90 shops, including major brands like Topshop, H&M, and Apple.
The Lanes: This historic shopping district is famous for its narrow, winding streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can find everything from antique shops to contemporary art galleries.
North Laine: This area is known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, vintage stores, and street art. It’s a great place to find unique clothing, accessories, and gifts.
Western Road: Located in the Hove area of the city, Western Road offers a range of shops, from high-end boutiques to popular chain stores.
Overall, Brighton and Hove is a great destination for shopping enthusiasts, offering a wide range of options to suit all tastes and budgets.
Brighton & Hove Schools
Brighton and Hove is home to a range of excellent schools, including primary schools, secondary schools, and colleges. Some of the top schools in the area include:
Brighton College – an independent school for children aged 3 to 18
Roedean School – an independent girls’ school for children aged 11 to 18
Varndean School – a secondary school for children aged 11 to 16
Dorothy Stringer School – a secondary school for children aged 11 to 16
Balfour Primary School – a primary school for children aged 4 to 11
Brunswick Primary School – a primary school for children aged 4 to 11
Hove Park School – a secondary school for children aged 11 to 16
Blatchington Mill School – a secondary school for children aged 11 to 16
There are also a number of excellent colleges in the area, including Brighton Hove & Sussex Sixth Form College and City College Brighton and Hove.
Brighton & Hove Food & Drink
Brighton is renowned for its food and drink scene, with a wide variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of the highlights:
Seafood: As a seaside town, Brighton is famous for its seafood. There are numerous restaurants and fish and chip shops offering fresh fish and shellfish, including the popular The Regency Restaurant and the award-winning The Salt Room.
Vegan and vegetarian: Brighton is also known for its vibrant vegan and vegetarian scene. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes offering plant-based dishes, such as The Plant Room and The Hope & Ruin.
Pubs and bars: Brighton has a lively pub and bar scene, with a range of traditional pubs, trendy cocktail bars and microbreweries. Some popular options include The Basketmakers Arms, The Mesmerist and The North Laine Brewhouse.
Street food: Brighton has a thriving street food scene, with regular markets and events showcasing a variety of cuisines from around the world. The Brighton Open Market and Street Diner are two popular venues to check out.
Cafes and brunch spots: Brighton is home to a plethora of independent cafes and brunch spots, offering everything from artisan coffee to bottomless brunches. Some favourites include The Flour Pot Bakery, Marwood Cafe and Cafe Coho.
