Brighton Visitor is your FREE independent guide to the best of Brighton & Hove and surrounding Sussex. Available online and as a free monthly magazine, Brighton Visitor is packed with all the best and latest things to see and do in a fun and easy-to-read format. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to brilliant Brighton we’re the perfect guide to the month’s highlights. And we’re most definitely buckets more fun!
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We’re supporting PUP AID 2010
Yep (or should that be ‘yap’) folks, the Brighton Visitor team are getting behind this year’s Pup Aid – a puppy farming awareness day organised annually by thepet.net.
PUP AID is a mini-boutique music festival to be held at Stanmer House near Brighton on Sunday 19 September featuring another celeb-judged dog show, the best local bands, doggy displays (incl. Guide Dogs and Hearing Dogs), Rex Factor Final, Bar-B-Q, and loads of fun for all the family - and of course your dogs too.
Puppy Farming is an incredibly cruel industry that basically battery-farms dogs on a massive scale purely for profit and at the expense of the health and welfare of not only the puppies, but the breeding bitches and stud-dogs too. Unfortunately so many dog owners are still not aware goes on - and even fewer know how to spot the tell-tale signs of when someone is trying to sell them a puppy produced in this cruel heartless way.
Advance tickets go on sale from 1 August (all proceeds to go to the Dog’s Trust in Shoreham). For more information please visit www.thepet.net.
The sound of corks popping and the Brighton Visitor team are there in a shot! So we couldn’t wait to raise a glass at the first Hove Champagne Festival on Friday 4 and Saturday 5 June.
With over 50 (yep that’s 50!) Champagnes to sample, the event attracted a huge number of visitors to a gloriously hot and sunny Hove Lawns. Lots of helpful experts were at hand to give one-to-one tuition and presentations in the ‘Taste Theatre’. And alongside big name Champagne houses such as Laurent Perrier, some of Brighton’s best bars and restaurants took part including Hotel du Vin, Drakes, Riddle & Finns and Sam’s of Brighton, plus retailers including Eastbourne’s Ten Green Bottles and Waitrose.
We took the easy option and sat back to enjoy the bubbles with our pals from Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival, Brighton Business Forum and The Oriental hotel. We look forward to seeing another fizz-tastic event soon!
Up to 1,000 participants are expected to join Brighton’s fifth annual World Naked Bike Ride environmental protest on Sunday 13 June, in what organisers are predicting to be the biggest, barest and best bike ride yet. The Brighton leg of the international event has quickly grown to an astonishing 700 riders last year, from 160 in 2006, and has become a regular fixture in the city’s summer calendar.
Nick Sayers, co-organiser of the ride, says, “The popularity of the ride demonstrates that people in Brighton are really up for it, not just throwing a party, but showing their passion and creativity in tackling environmental issues and the need to remedy the destructive effects of car culture”.
Over 50 cities across the globe host World Naked Bike Rides, including seven in the UK, many on the same weekend as the Brighton event. The rides are part of a growing movement celebrating bikes and body power, demonstrating cyclists’ vulnerability and protesting against the dominance of cars and the pollution they cause.
Meeting in The Level, Ditchling Road at 12 noon, cyclists will pass many of Brighton & Hove’s famous landmarks before finishing at Black Rock naturist beach in Kemp Town for a post-ride dip in the sea. The ride certainly grabs the attention of crowds, who provide support with their cheers and delighted faces along its easy “naked sightseeing” route.
Brighton goes Wild!
Brighton seafront is currently home to Wild Planet, a breathtaking exhibition showcasing 80 of the most remarkable wildlife images ever taken. Visitors to Brighton are the very first in the country to view and enjoy the exhibition, which debuts in the city and runs until 26 September 2010.
The exhibition images have all been selected from Wildlife Photographer of the Year, the world’s most prestigious wildlife photography competition, which is owned by the Natural History Museum, London and BBC Wildlife Magazine. Each one is captioned with the story of how it was taken and insights into the species captured on film, to inspire and educate a new generation of wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The Wild Planet experience also includes designated retail store located on the promenade opposite East Street, offering a unique collection of beautifully designed gifts, each inspired by the exhibition images.
A selection of inspiring images featured in the Wild Planet exhibition are available as part of the Natural History Museum’s exclusive Print on Demand service. Print on Demand allows exhibition visitors to own their favourite photographs from the exhibition, customising how they should look using a touch-screen digital kiosk, housed in the Wild Planet store, or by ordering online. Print on Demand is available in the Wild Planet Shop and online at www.nhmshop.co.uk/prints-on-demand (prices range from £25- £125).
Wild Planet runs until 26 September on Brighton seafront between Brighton Pier and the bottom of West Street • www.wildplanetexhibition.co.uk
Why not treat yourself to the ‘Lay in and Lunch Package’ which includes luxury accommodation, a light breakfast in bed of Danish/Toast and Coffee or Tea, midday check out and a 2 course lunch in the restaurant. Ideal after a late night out in town, leaving you with the option of a leisurely lie in and a delicious bite to eat before departure. ‘Lie in and Lunch Package’ from £62.50 per person, valid Sunday through Thursdays, excluding Bank holidays, based on 2 people sharing.
drakes of brighton, 43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton • 01273 696 934 • www.drakesofbrighton.com
As the UK staycation market booms in 2010, Eastbourne is definitely on the up...
It wouldn’t be unfair to say Eastbourne has historically had the reputation of being the more sedate neighbour of Brighton. Since the 50s and the rise of cheap package holidays, it has attracted a more mature and affluent visitor, compared to those visiting its more brash and bustling big brother along the coast. What this has meant is that the pace of life in Eastbourne is somewhat more gentle, and the seafront has been maintained to a very high standard with the litter-free, well-manicured Western Lawns and the stunning seafront Carpet Gardens which are a riot of colour throughout much of the year.
But times are changing for Eastbourne, and it’s developing both its image and its offerings to reposition itself as a contemporary UK destination with particular appeal to families and lovers of the great outdoors. There are lots of attractions including Fort Fun and Treasure Island for under 12s, whilst the surrounding area includes some of the most famous historic sites in England including Battle Abbey and the beautiful, picture-perfect Bodiam Castle. The iconic countryside around the town includes the Seven Sisters Country Park which is home to Birling Gap and Beachy Head, both popular with walkers and mountain bikers.
Eastbourne has an amazing cultural offering for a town of its size with four major theatres that attract tours of major West End plays and musicals, most notably for 2010 including Hairspray and The Sound of Music. The latest addition to the creative scene in Eastbourne is the Towner Gallery – a contemporary art gallery featuring international standard shows.
If you’re looking to stay in the area for a night or more then Eastbourne has a vast range of accommodation to choose from. The Grand hotel is now Sussex’s only 5 star hotel and features 152 bedrooms, an outdoor pool, spa treatments, and the famed Mirabelle gourmet restaurant. Just around the corner from the Grand is the Big Sleep style hotel, owned by Hollywood superstar John Malcovich, which has 50 incredibly good value and very funky 
rooms. Meanwhile, the atmospheric Hydro Hotel with it’s renowned Orangery Restaurant and award-winning gardens, offers spectacular sea views. Further along the seafront the Premier Inn offers family-friendly rooms at pocket-friendly prices.
Add to this that Eastbourne can lay claim to being the sunniest spot in the UK, and Eastbourne is definitely worth a look in 2010.
Hydro Hotel • 01323 720 643 • www.hydrohotel.com
The Grand • 01323 412 345 • www.grandeastbourne.com
Premier Inn • 08701 977 089 • www.premierinn.com
The Big Sleep Hotel • 01323 722 676 • www.thebigsleephotel.com
Towner Gallery • 01323 434 670 • www.eastbourne.gov.uk
For visitor information please visit www.visiteastbourne.com
Our favourite night out in Brighton just got a whole lot better. A little birdie at Lucky Voice tells us that they’ve revised their pricing structure so it’s costed per person rather than on the room size. So from Sunday - Thursday it’s a bargain £4 per person per hour; and Friday and Saturdays £6 before 10pm and £8 after. That’s gonna make for a lot of very happy Lucky Voicers!
Don’t forget Lucky Voice also has a very swanky cocktail bar which is open until late for singers and non-singers, with no admission charge. And if you pick up a copy of June’s Brighton Visitor magazine you can get 2-for-1 on cocktails to get your evening started. Cheers me dears!
8 Black Lion Street • 01273 715 770 • www.luckyvoice.com
Brighton Visitor had a very jolly day out at Fontwell Racecourse at the start of June to celebrate the launch of this year’s Sussex Business Awards. Without doubt the most high profile and prestigious award scheme in the south east, the Sussex Business Awards recognise business excellence every year.
Following a busy afternoon of racing (no winners for us, but lots of past winners at the party!), we were treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the racecourse, then a short presentation and drinks reception attended by sponsors, past winners, media and dignitaries from both East and West Sussex.
This year the awards have some huge sponsors – including Lloyds TSB Commercial, Deloitte, Heart FM and Bupa amongst many others – demonstrating their importance to the economic life and profile of the region.
For more details on how to get your business recognised check out the website!
Here’s a novel way to see the sights and sounds of Brighton & Hove... hop on a tuk tuk! The Brighton Tuk Tuk company operates a small fleet of private hire vehicles that are available to book in advance for private tours, parties, weddings... you get the idea! We were recently treated to a zip around the seafront to much amusement. Elvis and Marilyn come as optional extras!
For more info or to book call Mark on 01273 233 953 or visit www.brightontuktuk.co.uk
The Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC) and The Tourism Alliance of Brighton & Hove, are working together for 2010 on the city's first ever 2FOR1 offers initiative. Following the continuing success of the London 2FOR1 promotion, Brighton businesses have fast tracked ahead with a package showcasing the best of our unique city by the sea. 
Many thousands of train travellers are expected to take advantage of the deal, which provides two admission tickets for the price of one when presenting their voucher and train tickets at participating attractions, plus exclusive dining, nights out and accommodation deals. Choose from rides on Brighton Pier, underwater adventures at SEALIFE, a day at the races, a leisurely match at Sussex County Cricket, alongside fantastic 2FOR1 food and drink deals at the likes of Terre á Terre, The Terraces and Drakes of Brighton. And why not take advantage of one of the truly stunning accommodation offers at the city’s best hotels including Holiday Inn, Hilton Brighton Metropole and Hotel du Vin.
ATOC Chief Executive Michael Roberts said: "This summer train companies, First Capital Connect and Southern Railways, will get hundreds of thousands of people into Brighton & Hove, keeping the city's tourism industry ticking over at a time when the economy needs all the help it can get.
"It is great news that ever greater numbers of people are taking advantage of deals to save money. This is a perfect example of how train companies are working together with other businesses to give people coming into Brighton & Hove what they want."
The Tourism Alliance Brighton & Hove is a membership organisation of proactive tourism and hospitality businesses with an ongoing commitment to the success of the city and the continuing improvement of the visitor experience.
Claire Mitchell, Chair of The Tourism Alliance said "We are excited and proud to have the opportunity to work with ATOC and the train companies on an initiative that directly benefits all parties, and gives us a channel to communicate a positive message about the fantastic offerings of Brighton & Hove. Throughout 2010 we want to maximise the in-bound visitor potential of our core catchment area of London and the south east, and the 2FOR1 promotion is a fantastic way to do this.”
For unbeatable offers, pick up a brochure from over 240 railways stations across London and the South East, or visit the website for online vouchers – www.daysoutguide.co.uk
Brugal Rum – the Dominican Republic’s favourite liquor – is painting the town red (and blue, and green...) this week with funky street art events and bar promotions across Brighton & Hove.
We popped along to Jubilee Square to meet artists Paul Don and Foundry, and see their large format paintings. Our junior reporter Joe even had himself a bespoke tee shirt sprayed up, which we suspect will be the fashion item of the summer.
Some of the big guns of the UK comedy scene including Steve Coogan, Noel Fielding, Simon Evans, Andi Osho, Seann Walsh and Count Artur Strong have come together to produce an evening of comedy in aid of local charity Amaze. The one-off event takes place from 8pm on Thursday 17 July and all proceeds will go to support families of children with special needs and disabilities in Brighton and Hove.
With comedy royalty present, we just know this event is going to be a sell out so click to the website now to book your tickets!
Tickets £25 • Brighton Dome Ticket Office, New Road, Brighton
01273 709 709 • www.brightondome.org
MAMMOTHFEST is the South East's one and only Metal Festival. Championing the best homegrown local talent and bringing some of the biggest and best metal bands in the UK and the world to Brighton & Hove.
With 27 acts confirmed so far, playing on two stages at the Hove Centre on Saturday 18 September, this is going to be a dream come true for Brighton metalheads!
Tickets and more info at www.mammothfest.co.uk
Try your hand at aerial and trapeze acrobatics at The Circus Project workshops this summer. With courses for complete beginners through improvers to seasoned pros, circus skills are an enjoyable way to keep fit and meet fun new people.
Most classes are held at Hangleton Community Centre in Hove, with courses starting various dates from start of August 2010.
For info about everything and to book a place on workshops contact
Emma on 01273 884 732 • www.thecircusproject.co.uk
Grab your eco bags and get down to 73 North Road on Saturday August 14th to stuff them full of delicious local vegetables, dairy, meat, cakes, herbs, game, drinks, fish and bread. Then why not have a coffee or some lunch in the FARM kitchen at the back of the market?
Open every Saturday from 9am-3pm Brighton Farm Market is looking to become Brighton's very own mini London Borough Market offering high quality local food from over twenty local farmers, producers and growers in an exciting and friendly covered street market. Each week there will be something different on offer to tempt you!
Diplocks Yard used to be called Diplocks Barrow Yard and from 1915-1975 hired out barrows or hand-trucks. 'Totters' as they were known, or rag-and-bone-men, used to go round the streets calling and collecting clothing, furniture and metal to sell on. In 1975 the barrows were not making money and were disposed of. The yard is rumoured to be the place Tony Mancini 'the trunk murderer' rented a barrow to move the body of his victim! In more recent times the yard was used as a craft and antiques market.
Brighton Farm Market, Diplocks Yard, 73 North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YD • 07717 805 335 • www.brightonfarmmarket.co.uk
The Who frontman Roger Daltrey unveiled the new Brighton Music Tunnel last month. The city’s aquarium – now SEALIFE Brighton – has had many incarnations over it’s long history, including as The Florida Rooms club and music venue in the 1960s.
To celebrate the musical heritage of the venue, where many iconic bands played, art students from the University of Brighton have painted tributes to the stars of Brighton’s music scene, from Dusty Springfield and ABBA through to Norman Cook and Sir Paul McCartney.
The tunnel runs from the entrance of SEALIFE to Brighton beach, just west of Brighton Pier and is free to view.
Brighton & Hove see’s the welcome return of White Night. From dusk on Saturday 30 October until dawn on Sunday 31 October. the centre of the city comes alive with a whole host of creative and fun events and activities at venues as varied as galleries and nightclubs through to open top buses and even street corners!
Organised by Brighton & Hove City Council and the Arts Council, and funded through the EU InterReg scheme, White Night allows residents and visitors of all ages to experience the late night city in a safe and enjoyable way.
This year’s theme is ‘Illumination’ so budding creatives are encouraged to come up with unique one-off ideas for people to experience.
The Thai Festival Brighton is an indoor celebration of Thai food from four different regions of Thailand, alongside handicrafts, traditions and culture presented in a unique style for all the family to take part in and enjoy. To celebrate the opening of The Thai Festival 2010 there will be a Thai Parade at noon from the front of Hove Centre finishing on the main stage at 12.30.
• Thai food and Iced tropical drinks stalls
• Thai handicraft stalls
• Thai grocery stalls
• Thai beer and Siam Winery Thai Wine
• Thai traditional massage
• Traditional & modern Thai dancing, Thai singers
• Thai music circle
• Thai boxing and martial arts demonstrations
• Buddhist ceremony and Thai Parade.
Tickets £3 on the door • 11am-6pm Sunday 25 July • Hove Centre, Norton Road, Hove • www.visitthaifestival.com/Brighton.html
Tony’s recent European appearances, at the Quiksilver Pro France in Hossegor in 2008 and for the Quiksilver Tony Hawk Show in the majestic surroundings of the Grand Palais in Paris last November, have whipped up a storm in all of Europe and even across the Atlantic.
And throughout July, Tony will be headlining four performances on the biggest vert ramps in Europe – Berlin, Rome, Barcelona and BRIGHTON – alongside his Birdhouse team. “I'm very excited to skate in other cities after the overwhelming response we received from our Paris show. The European crowds are amazing so it will be fun to see how they react in different countries. I've skated in all of these cities but never done demos of this size in them. They are in for a treat” explained Tony.
Tony Hawk will be performing with some of the best ramp riders on earth and their choreographed shows are always spectacular. Athletes include Sandro Dias, X-Games gold medallist and multiple world champion and vert stars Kevin Staab, Jessie Fritsch and Jean Postec. “I love skating with all of them, and it's like we are a travelling family. They are also amazing athletes and each show is unique because they come up with different tricks and routines each time” Tony said.
Every single stop of the tour will come with amazing live concerts and DJ sets, and Brighton sees the enfants terribles of Brit indie rock, Maxïmo Park, closing the European Tour of the greatest skater of all time.
“I'm excited to travel Europe with such a great crew. Thanks to Quiksilver, we can do demos on a scale much bigger than previous tours. The crowds will be amazed at what we have in store", says Tony.
Taste the World in 2010 with the Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Festival. The theme for this year is ‘Local Produce, International Flavours’ so expect a celebration of fantastic Sussex food and drink, all with a global twist.
The festival opens with a special race day at Brighton Racecourse, followed by a World Food Trail throughout the city centre on Saturday 4 - Sunday 5 September when foodie businesses – ranging from restaurants and hotels to pubs and wine merchants – will be throwing open their doors a showcasing the flavours of the world. The following weekend of Saturday 11 - Sunday 12 September sees the return of Sussex’s biggest local food market (the aptly named Big Sussex Market!!) alongside the Children’s Food Festival, Live Food Show 2010 and a Mexican Independence Day Festival – all located around New Road, Jubilee Square and Pavilion Gardens.
The Fiery Foods UK Chilli Festival returns with all things hot’n’spicy on the weekend of Saturday 18 - Sunday 19 September, whilst the last weekend of September see’s the return of the epic World Food Market on Hove Lawns.
And in between all these amazing events, the city’s best bars and eateries will also be hosting their own events including Terre á Terre’s pop-up restaurant on Brighton Pier, ‘Make Your Own Dinner’ night at Moshi Moshi, Spanish Gala Dinner and wine tasting evenings at Hotel du Vin, ‘Taste of Sussex’ at Drakes, and even a Regency costumed banquet in the presence of the Prince Regent at Hilton Brighton Metropole. There’s also a whole host of community food events including cookery workshops, growing days and the People’s Picnic in Preston Park.
This year, September just isn’t big enough for all the delicious food and drink festival going-ons! The Brighton and Hove Food Awards (the ‘Foodies’) are announced at a reception at the Hilton on Monday 4 October, whilst festival participants also have the opportunity to showcase themselves to local businesses at the Brighton & Hove Business Show on Thursday 7 October.
With all these foodie events, you’d better be hungry folks!
For events and information visit www.brightonfoodfestival.com
Cast your vote in the Brighton & Hove Food Awards at www.brightonfoodawards.com
If you are a business wishing to take part in the 2010 Brighton & Hove Food and Drink Awards then please email nick@brightonvisitor.com for an information pack.