What's On in Brighton & Hove: 28 June – 4 July 2026

Good Morning, Brighton

We're right in the thick of summer now, aren't we? The kind of week where the city feels properly alive—locals spilling onto café terraces, visitors wandering the seafront, and that brilliant long-light evenings that make you want to stay out just a bit longer. This week, we're shining a spotlight on The Lanes, those gorgeous medieval alleyways that are absolutely magical when the sun's out.

This Week in Brighton & Hove

- A decade of community spirit: The Barn up in Westdene is celebrating 10 years with Barn Fest—live music, food, and family activities. It's the kind of neighbourhood gathering that reminds you why we love this city.

- New coffee arrives on East Street: Blank Street, the Instagram-famous New York coffeehouse everyone's been talking about, finally opens its first south coast spot on 11 July. Minimalist vibes and seriously good artisan drinks—worth a visit if you fancy something different.

- South Lodge's new summer tea: The luxury estate has refreshed their afternoon tea menu celebrating local orchards and vineyards. Perfect for a special weekend treat if you fancy heading out to the countryside.

- Monkey magic at Drusillas: A newborn white-faced saki monkey born in May continues a remarkable 26-year family legacy at the Sussex wildlife park. If you haven't visited in a while, it's a brilliant spot for a sunny afternoon.

This Weekend

With summer properly here, get yourself to Brighton Beach—it's free, it's beautiful, and weekends are for doing exactly this. Grab a coffee, find a spot on the pebbles, and watch the world go by. If you fancy something a bit more structured, Brighton Palace Pier is always buzzing; you can walk it free and grab a bite, or go for the rides if you're feeling it.

But here's what we're really recommending: lose yourself in The Lanes this weekend. The independent shops are brilliant, the alleyways feel properly historic (medieval, actually), and there's something genuinely special about wandering around without a plan. Pop into the jewellery shops, find a hidden café corner, and soak up the atmosphere. It's peak summer in Brighton, condensed into a few narrow streets.

If you're looking for a quieter vibe, Hove Lawns is gorgeous at this time of year—perfect for a picnic or just sitting with a newspaper and a sense of well-being.

Where to Eat and Drink This Week

Since we're featuring The Lanes, you absolutely must visit English's of Brighton if you haven't already. It's been a seafood institution since 1945, and it's the real deal—proper fish and chips, lovely atmosphere, proper Brighton. Book ahead if you want a table.

For something vegetarian, Terre à Terre is brilliant and has been a Lanes stalwart for years. The food is creative, genuinely delicious, and the team really know what they're doing.

If you just want somewhere cosy for a drink and a bite, The Gingerman does excellent food in an intimate setting. All three are proper local favourites with real character.

Worth Knowing

Summer crowds: The seafront and The Lanes get busy on weekends—brilliant if you love the buzz, but go early on Saturday morning if you prefer a quieter wander.

What's coming: Keep an eye out for Blank Street opening on 11 July on East Street. And if you're a live music fan, London four-piece Saint Clair are headlining Green Door Store on 28 July following a new single release—worth bookmarking.

Have a wonderful week, Brighton. We'll see you around.

— BrightonAndHove.co