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Welcome to Brighton Up Your Day

Practical Brighton advice for locals, visitors and anyone getting to know the city — written by someone who actually lives here.

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About Us

A local guide to Brighton, written by a local

I’m Dave King — a Brighton local, born and raised, and still very much here. I write about this city because I know it well, and because there’s more worth talking about than most people realise.

I started this site because I kept having the same conversations. Friends visiting from elsewhere asking where to eat, what to do with kids, how to get to Lewes from the station. I was giving the same recommendations over and over and eventually decided to write them down properly.

You’ll find honest, practical guides to things to do, places to eat and drink, local services, transport and getting around — written from direct experience rather than press releases.

a seagull flying over the sea at sunset

Categories

Everything covered on the site, organised by topic. Whether you’re planning a visit, recently moved here, or just looking for something to do this weekend.

People paddleboarding in the sea

Activities

Things to do in Brighton — indoors and outdoors, free and paid, for locals and visitors alike.

people seated at a chef's counter in a modern restaurant, open kitchen glow, plates being served, lively but classy.

Dining

Restaurants, cafés, bars and local food spots — honest picks with prices, not press releases.

small club in Brighton, DJ booth with hands on mixer, colourful lighting, crowd silhouettes.

Nightlife

Pubs, bars, clubs, live music and quiz nights — what’s on, where to go and what to expect.

Brighton seafront at sunrise, person holding takeaway coffee, soft golden light, gentle waves.

Lifestyle

Everyday Brighton — seasonal ideas, local habits and how to enjoy the city like someone who actually lives here.

Brighton Royal Pavilion at sunset

History & Culture

Brighton’s stories, landmarks and creative scene — the bits that give the city its character.

classroom-style learning scene, hands taking notes in a notebook, pens and textbooks, bright natural light.

Education

Schools, colleges and learning in Brighton — practical guides for families, students and anyone new to the area.

friendly UK tradesperson at a Brighton terraced house door, holding toolbox, professional appearance.

Local Services & Professionals

Finding the right people in Brighton — from trades and home services to specialist professionals.

Trains pulling in at Brighton station at night

Travel & Transport

Getting to Brighton and getting around — trains, buses, parking, walking routes and day trips from the city.

community noticeboard in Brighton, hands pinning a flyer, shallow depth of field.

Politics & Community

Local updates, community stories and the issues shaping Brighton — explained clearly and without spin.

Latest Articles

The most recently published guides. Updated regularly — if something has changed since my last visit, I’ll say so.

Friends doing karaoke in Brighton at a trendy bar

Karaoke in Brighton: The Best Places for a Fun Night Out

A lively British beer garden on a sunny afternoon, friends smiling with pints at wooden tables, lush greenery, warm golden sunlight, colourful drinks and food on tables

Best Beer Gardens in Brighton: 9 Sunny Pubs for the Perfect Pint

A classic British afternoon tea on a three-tier stand in a bright seaside hotel lounge, finger sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, small pastries, fine china teacups

Afternoon Tea in Brighton: Where to Find a Proper Treat