For Discerning Gay Travelers

Our Local Expert Says:

Slightly less expensive than the Grand and on the Seafront, the Hilton Metropole is a popular choice for leisure and business guests. The Golden Handbag Awards ( a salute to the finest LGBT entertainment) are held here every year. This is a beautiful hotel.

Description:

Originally built in 1889, with a handful of its rooms housed in a postwar addition, the Brighton Metropole is the largest hotel in Brighton and one of the city's top three or four hotels (though not as grand as the Grand or Thistle Brighton). This hotel, with a central seafront location, often hosts big conferences. The refurbished rooms are comfortable and generous in size with roomy sitting areas. The spacious bathrooms include faux marble vanities and tub/shower combos. Each room has a PlayStation game console.

Description:

The North Laine is generally thought of as the focal point of Brighton. This what they call "The Main Drag". The North Laine is mostly comprised of boutique shops and small cafes. Sometimes walking on the North Laine, you'll spot a stray musician or a bubble blower, adding to the overall effect. One of the main clubs Komedia in Brighton is also notably on the North Laine.

Description:

The Lanes house some of the best shops and restaurants in the city. A lot of the more upscale brands can be found here, like MAC cosmetics and Karen Millen. Dukes Lane is particularly visually attractive and you'll love having a cuppa tea by the fountain. Honestly, for many the highlight of the city.

Our Local Expert Says:

Havana is the type of restaurant you'd go for a really special night out. Located in a 18th century converted theater and serving what could only be called "fine food", Havana is a really gem. You'll be swept away by the stylish décor and attentive staff!

Description:

Stunningly stylish, Havana attracts a well dressed crowd of diners. Incredibly clean, cream decor with dark wood and beautifully set tables, this restaurant is not for those who want fast food. The front serves as a cafe bar during the day and a cocktail lounge at night. Breakfasts have recently been added to the menu and there are several lovingly prepared lunches on offer. An enticing cafe style menu is a little less pricey. Dinner is a bit more expensive, but worth it for great, contemporary cuisine in stunning surroundings.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Queens Arms is the ultimate cabaret bar. The small intimate setting and disco ball makes this both a great nightlife venue and a local pub. You'll love this place!

Description:

A small friendly pub, the Queens Arms has been well frequented for a number of years. Bright yellow and blue decor as well as a custom made carpet complete with the name of the pub gives an attractive look. There's plenty of entertainment here; cabaret on Mondays plus freebies to "Mantrap" at Revenge and karaoke most other nights.

Description:

The Brighton Museum and Art Gallery is part of the Pavilion. It showcases 9 different types of art including costumes and local paintings. If you are traveling with a disabled person, you will not have a problem visiting this gallery.

Description:

This vegetarian restaurant has achieved national acclaim for its fine cuisine. Unlike many vegetarian restaurants, Terre a Terre presents dishes that are made with a light, sophisticated touch. The decor is chic and modern, but takes on an altogether more romantic tone with candles and dimmed lighting in the evening. The food is simply superb—it is beautifully presented, the Twice Baked Camembert Soufflé is divine. This is a deservedly popular restaurant. Be sure to book in advance.

Description:

Kemptown is a grittier area of the city but it's so alternative and gay friendly, you'll love it. Kemptown is quite a hip place and there are many great restaurants to choose from. Make sure to head toward Upper St. James Street past all the antiques shops to where it looks like it ends, and you'll find Kemptown Village, a hidden hotspot.

Our Local Expert Says:

Komedia is the seminal Brighton comedy club. There are a wide variety of acts here and it is popular with the University set. A good choice for quality, established acts.

Description:

Komedia is a popular haunt that presents comedy, theatre, workshops and live music. The Krater Comedy Club takes place every Saturday and Sunday evening and presents a line-up of established and new comedians. There are two shows on Saturday, the later one is always a bit more raucous, but either is always a great night out. More informal performances are presented on Sunday. Ticket prices and show times vary; call for details. There is a fine restaurant, "Curve," on the ground floor for a pre-show meal.

Our Local Expert Says:

The New Steine experience awards you modern comforts in a small hotel at a fair price. You'll love the attentive staff and gorgeous furnishings. The central location also makes New Steine exceedingly popular.

Description:

The owners of this hotel hope to make your stay an enjoyable one by providing a friendly and helpful service. Not only do they speak French and Spanish but they offer a laundry service and can make reservations for their guests at local theatres and attractions. There is a lounge in which to relax and play board games. The hotel is situated in a pleasant garden square in the Kemp Town district of Brighton. This area has an ambience all of its own. There are lots of bars, cafes and restaurants as well as several interesting shops. The seafront is only minutes away.

Description:

The Doughnut is right near the pinnacle of all Brighton attractions, the Pier. The Pier is the centre of everything. You have the arcades and the candy floss, the rides and the terrible foods that are terribly naughty to eat. The statue itself is a marmite sort of deal, either you like it or you don't. It's kind of a weird looking thing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Infinity Café is an exceedingly popular vegetarian and vegan café on the North Laines. The bread is freshly supplied from the nearby in-shop bakery. This place is often buzzy and usually packed. A good choice for a healthy lunch.

Description:

Infinity Foods Co-operative also own this cafe, in the North Laine area. Everything is freshly produced and fair traded with many organic items. On two levels, this is the place to stop for a healthy snack or lunch. Frequented by a wide range of customers, you won't find greasy fry-ups here. Drinks include herbal teas, coffees, juices and soya milk is available on request. Chunky salads are great value, soups and other snacks look tasty and as fresh. Organic cakes are delicious - try the tofu cheesecake, you won't be disappointed and it's filling too.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Tin Drum straddles the fence between a comfortable pub and a sophisticated bar. This is an unassuming laid-back venue perfect for meeting friends, having a quick or long drink and lounging on the soft sofas. A great pub.

Description:

The Tin Drum can be found at the Seven Dials, a 10 minute walk from Churchill Square. No-one would believe that in a previous incarnation this lively cafe bar was once a late night supermarket. The spacious interior now has large windows at the front, ambient lighting and brightly painted back walls. Wooden furniture, books on shelves and local art work add a homely touch. The Tin Drum is also child friendly and high chairs & crayons can be provided. The food menu has a Polish slant and is extremely inviting. Starters include delights such as goats cheese and red onion tartlets. Mains are equally good. Try potato rosti with sauerkraut and apple topped with poached egg and gruyere.