Having long been nicknamed “London-by-sea”, every summer Brighton fills up with flocks of tourists travelling from London and further afield. With hot weather comes crowds spilling out of Brighton Railway Station and making their way into the city in herds down Queens Road. As much as we may love the vibrancy, busyness and bustling nature of our city, it can be a little grating when it takes twenty minutes to run a (usually) five minute errand. So if you’re a local, or maybe just someone who prefers the untrodden track, here’s where can you find Brighton’s hidden gems sans streets full of people.
Skip On The North Laine…
It may be one of Brighton’s biggest gems but during summer the North Laine is an absolute no-go if you’re looking to avoid what looks like a scene in a zombie apocalypse film. It may be full of flea markets, vintage clothing and quirky gifts but if it can be avoided, it should. Clearly those narrow paths weren’t made to keep up with Brighton’s ever-growing tourist trade…
…Visit Kemp Town Instead
Although it may not look quite as cute and quirky as the historic North Laine, Kemp Town makes a close second. Being lesser known to foreign visitors and equipped with wider paths, Kemp Town is probably your best bet if you’re looking for somewhere to browse bargains at leisure. Rife with charity shops to bargain hunt and plenty of yummy eateries, Kemp Town will be your best friend during the busy holiday season.
Avoid Brighton Central Beach At All Costs
If you hail from Brighton, you’ll probably know this already but for those that don’t – Avoid Brighton Central Beach At. All. Costs. Basically the space between Brighton Palace Pier and the i360 is strictly off limits during the summer months, unless you want to be swarmed by seagull-feeding-tourists…
…Why Not Opt For Kemp Town Beach?
Just a minute’s walk past Palace Pier you’ll find the much quieter, much more peaceful Kemp Town beach. Instead of a family per pebble, you’ll find ample space even on the hottest of days. Plus less people = less food = less seagulls, so it really is a win-win.
…Or Try A Park Instead!
If the beach really isn’t your thing then why not try out one of Brighton’s beautiful green spaces instead? Just a few minutes walk (uphill) from the crowded shores you’ll find Queen’s Park, one of Brighton’s most beloved green spaces. Equipped with park, playground, pond and lots of space for playing or picnicking, Queen’s Park has it all and is rarely overrun. If you’re after somewhere peaceful to take in the sun then it’s definitely worth the five minute upward-bound walk.
Churchill Square Is A No Go
As with most places, the shopping centre is an absolute no go during the summer months. Full to the brim of excitable teenagers school-tripping from Spain or families searching for the perfect present, it’s hot, it’s sticky and it’s hard to navigate at the best of times. So if you’re looking for somewhere to shop till you drop whilst maintaining some sanity, why not visit one of Brighton’s bustling markets? Check out the Open Market. Despite what the name might suggest, it’s Brighton’s only covered market destination.
