Sun, sea and midnight raves on the beach – Brighton’s proudly open and bohemian personality welcomes a diverse and international community.
Brighton is a place full of love and happiness. The two universities make it a fun-loving student town that allows you to be your true self. (Third year student, University of Sussex)
Brighton is famous for...
Gay Pride
The UK's biggest LGBTQ+ festival takes place each summer, with over 500,000 people supporting inclusivity in one of the UK's most famous seaside destinations.
Brighton nightlife, according to students
No matter your preference, you’ll find something for you in Brighton’s nightlife. The seafront is the city’s ‘Strip’, with all the main clubs right on the beach. (Third year student, University of Sussex)
The North Laine
You can lose hours and hours wandering around this treasure trove of independent eateries, flea markets and quirky shops – temptingly situated between the train station and the coast.
Brighton nightlife, according to students
West Street contains the most clubs and pubs with links to university societies where you can get great discounts. But the best little bars are around North Laine, which play older music or have themed nights that are super fun. (Second year student, University of Brighton)
Brighton seafront
This iconic destination provides traditional seaside fun, arts, sporting activities and a thriving night-time scene – all viewable from the top of the i360 tower.
Student life in Brighton
Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.
Treat yourself
Dinner at the top of the British Airways i360 tower. Brighton Marina has loads of nice, upscale restaurants too. (Third year student, University of Sussex)
Friday feeling
If you don’t like clubbing, or just fancy a change, head to the Krater Comedy Club at the Komedia in North Laine. (Third year student, University of Brighton)
Sunday chilling
I like to walk around Hove when I want to chill out. Hove is a bit quieter, and boasts some of the best coffee shops in the city. (Third year student, University of Brighton)
When family visit
For younger siblings, I would recommend the pier, where there are a number of rides and a huge arcade. (Third year student, University of Brighton)
Grab a bite
If you go to the Unbarred brewery/tap room, they bring pizza over from Fatto a Mano. Great local beer and awesome pizza! Pizza Me [in] Elm Grove often sells pizza by the slice if you’re walking into town. Purezza is great for vegan pizza. (University of Sussex student)
Low on cash
Brighton Museum and Art Gallery is free entry for Brighton residents and students. (University of Brighton student)
Feeling cultural
There are several independent galleries, such as Fabrica or The Phoenix Art Space, that always have rotating exhibitions. (Second year student, University of Brighton)
Catch up with mates
Loading Cafe near the seafront is dedicated to board games. More exciting VR and games rooms can be found at the World's End pub on London Road. There are endless coffee shops. (Second year student, University of Brighton)
Brighton in pictures
Brighton Pier
Looking over Brighton beach while the sun sets. Sums up my three years at Sussex. (Latisha Osei, third year student at University of Sussex)
Living in Brighton, according to students
Coldean – when it comes to living as a Sussex student in Brighton, you kind of have to compromise: either you’re close to uni but far from town, or the opposite. My friends and I chose to be close to the uni for convenience. We’re within walking distance, but need to catch buses into town. We’re also out of the catchment area for UberEats and Deliveroo (probs a blessing in disguise). This area is very cheap in comparison with the rest of Brighton – I’d definitely recommend it! (Third year student, University of Sussex)
Sussex sunset
The sun setting over a viewpoint in Sussex, where you can see the whole of Brighton and Falmer. (Natasha Mann, second year student at University of Sussex)
The Old Pier
The original pier from the Brighton centre during sunset. (Ellen Gwynn, University of Brighton student)
Living in Brighton, according to students
London Road – this area is very common with students, so it's nice to be a few minutes walk from all my friends, and a 20-minute walk to campus. It has a high street of its own, so no need to go all the way into the city centre as there’s a great selection of shops, little cafes and takeaway food. The housing is average, not the cheapest but definitely good if you have a group of five or more. (Second year student, University of Brighton)
The Royal Pavillion
Ice-skating at Christmas. (Lauren Follett, second year student at University of Sussex)
Living in Brighton
Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.
Where you'll find students
- Lewes Road
- Kemptown
- Moulescomb
Local transport
- £17.50
- Student citySaver – 7 days
- Bus
Student money tips
Maybe surprising, but to get from Sussex Uni/Falmer campus to Brighton centre, the train is cheapest. You can also get three-month bus passes, which is probably a good idea if you’re going to and from Falmer campus everyday. (University of Sussex student)
The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.
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Study options
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