The Brighton & Hove City Council look after more than 75 schools including the University of Brighton, University of Sussex, Stringer, Varndean, Hove Park and Cardinal Newman. Because of the large collegiate population, the city is overrun with vivacious restaurants, cafes and bars many of which mix culture with pleasure by selling art or having a theater atop the bar. The large student population does promise budget friendly places to eat, drink, play, and stay all over Brighton.
Brighton’s business district is centered on Edward Street and other nearby roads. American Express has a large building, which was its former headquarters, but is still considered the largest employer in the city on Edward.
The Lanes (the same ones that were burnt to a crisp in the 16th century) are now a premier retail and residential location. They are a part of the old fishing village and each narrow alley holds new treasures including clothes, jewels, antiques, and friendly restaurants and pubs. The Lanes also features a more affordable section of seaside homes.
The North Laine’s, just north of The Lanes, is a more ritzy part of Brighton. It features much of the same – just a bit more pricy. There are designer stores, jewelers, cafes, theaters, and the huge mall called Churchill Square. The homes here are also more expensive.
The child friendly atmosphere right along the coastline offers plenty to keep families on the go occupied. The Brighton Pier has rides, restaurants, and arcades. The new West Pier, when completed, will also feature a Ferris wheel by the same designers as the London Eye. The former site of Black Rock, the open air swimming location, now has one of Europe’s largest marinas, a skate park, a beach sports complex, and is continually being developed.
Read more in our Brighton Guide.