Looking for something to do in and around Brighton this weekend (3–5 October)? You’re in for a treat. From live music and theatre to food, autumn walks, and hidden gems, the city is buzzing. Here’s your luxury journal-style guide to making the most of your days off:
Friday 3 October — Ease Into the Weekend
Laugh It Off
Kick off Friday night with a laugh. Henning Wehn is bringing his latest stand-up, Acid Wehn, to the Dome. If you’re after clever wit with a German twist, this is your ticket.
Pints & Playlists
If comedy isn’t your vibe, grab a few mates and head down to Notch Biergarten on the seafront. Their Friday sessions start around 5.30pm with live music, craft beer and just the right amount of chaos to slide you into the weekend.
Saturday 4 October — Culture & Colour
Morning Rituals
Start your Saturday slow. Grab a flat white at Pelicano Coffee Roasters or Fika in North Laine, then wander The Lanes before the crowds. If you fancy something a little different, Brighton Museum’s ever-changing exhibitions are worth a look — and it’s free for residents with proof of address.
Autumn Walks
October light is the best light. Stretch your legs along the seafront toward Hove, or go further afield to Stanmer Park for a proper autumn fix. The woods are turning golden and it’s only a short hop on the bus or bike.
Culture Hit
Back in town, Saturday’s stacked at the Dome:
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The London Philharmonic Orchestra performs Tchaikovsky’s Sixth in the Concert Hall — lush, intense, and just right for a chilly October evening.
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Over in the Corn Exchange, Trouble, Struggle, Bubble & Squeak, a new show by Victoria Melody and Mark Thomas, mixes theatre, humour, and a dash of Brighton’s trademark eccentricity.
Fancy something more low-key? Check smaller venues like The Prince Albert or The Hope & Ruin for local gigs. Brighton never disappoints on the grassroots music front.
Sunday 5 October — Slow It Down
Brunch O’Clock
No Brighton weekend is complete without brunch. Locals swear by Starfish & Coffee in Hanover (their pancakes are legendary) or Nowhere Man in Upper North Street for stacks as high as your head. If you prefer something savoury, Marmalade in Kemptown does a mean shakshuka.
Market Browsing
After brunch, stroll through the Open Market on London Road or browse the Sunday flea market at The Level for vintage finds and local crafts. It’s the sort of Sunday activity that feels both lazy and productive.
Seaside Pause
If the weather holds, wrap up and head to the beach. Palace Pier’s fairground lights might be for the tourists, but there’s something lovely about a crisp October walk along the seafront, hot coffee in hand, watching the waves crash in.
Afternoon Notes
Round out the weekend with the Kaleidoscope Chamber Collective Coffee Concert at the Corn Exchange. Intimate, informal, and the perfect wind-down before Monday comes calling. If music isn’t your mood, a quiet pint at The Basketmakers Arms or The Hand in Hand might be just the ticket.
Insider Notes
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Resident Perks: Don’t forget, Brighton & Hove residents get reduced entry to the Royal Pavilion and Brighton Museum with proof of address-
Royal Pavilion
Brighton & Hove residents
BN1, BN2, BN3 and BN41 postcodes) and up 4 children: £14.75
Resident young person (13-18) £8.00
Students at University of Brighton, University of Sussex and Greater Brighton Metropolitan College (Proof required) and up to 4 children: £14.75
Carers Free
Brighton & Hove residents
BN1, BN2, BN3 and BN41 postcodes) and up 4 children: £7.00
Resident young person (13-18) £3.00
Students at University of Brighton, University of Sussex and Greater Brighton Metropolitan College (Proof required) and up to 4 children: £7.00
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Layer Up: The weather’s unpredictable this time of year. A scarf and a brolly are wise companions.
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Transport Hack: Skip the parking nightmare — cycle, walk, or jump on a BTN BikeShare to get around town.
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Eat Local: Avoid the chains on the seafront — Brighton’s strength is in its independents.
Brighton may be a magnet for visitors, but weekends like this remind us why
