10 best hidden gems in Brighton: From coffee to comedy
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Brighton is quirky, cool and chock-full of hidden gems that give this seaside city its undeniable charm. Although I’m a little hesitant to share my top 10 (hidden gems will be hidden no more), sharing truly is caring and it would be unfair of me not to share these gems with you and the world. Enjoy!
1. Marmalade
If you’re a fan of homemade pastries, organic products and delicious coffee then a visit to Marmalade is an absolute must. Hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Brighton, this café has fantastic food and drinks, as well as an lovely atmosphere.
2. City Books
What I love the most about Brighton is the fact that the city is full of cozy independent book shops. My favourite is City Books on Western Road, the main road linking Brighton to Hove. Whether you’re in search of a specific book or just looking to get inspired, this is a must-visit. They even have a large selection of signed copies – a nice bonus for every bibliophile out there!
3. Twisted Lemon
Tucked away in the South Lanes down a very small alleyway, Twisted Lemon is Brighton’s best cocktail bar. Period. Its wide-ranging, constantly changing mocktail list is an asset for all you non-drinkers out there.
4. Snoopers Paradise
You can’t visit Brighton without a visit to the North Lanes and to Snoopers Paradise. Intriguing, no? There are no words to explain the multitude of items you’ll find in this shop. Previously a department store, it’s now divided into independent shops selling anything from old cameras to vintage clothes and comics. You’ll end up spending hours there just browsing.
5. Choccywoccydoodah
This shop is as bonkers as its name. Both a shop and a café, Choccywoccydoodah is heaven for chocolate lovers and situated in the South Lanes. Their incredible window displays get regularly updated to suit the time of year and their hot chocolate and chocolate cake are the best in city. Fun fact: Choccywoccydoodah was recently featured on a TV show and has become a bit of a Brighton landmark as a result – it’s still a gem, but perhaps no longer so hidden.
6. Komedia
If you’re looking for a good night out, look no further than Komedia in the North Lanes. Live music, comedy shows, club nights – it has it all. It’s also next door to Duke’s at Komedia, showing both old and new films in an equally relaxed setting.
7. Devil’s Dyke
The best of Brighton is not always found in the city. Only a short bus ride away from the city centre and situated on the South Downs, Devil’s Dyke offers up exceptional view of the whole of East Sussex. Perfect for a short stroll or a day’s hike, there’s even a pub at the top in case you get thirsty!
8. Nordic Coffee Collective
Another one for the foodies. Only a few streets from the city centre, the Nordic Coffee Collective offers a wide range of Scandinavian products in a cozy Scandinavian décor. Worth a visit for the delicious cinnamon buns alone.
9. Graffiti
Not one hidden gem per se, but something that permeates the whole city (and often gets overlooked!). When I first visited, I absolutely loved going around both the North & South Lanes to photograph these amazing pieces of art. Graffiti is part of Brighton’s quirky charm and if you are a photo addict like me, it will keep you busy for a fair few hours.
10. Flea market – Kemptown
My final hidden gem of Brighton will have to be the Flea Market in Kemptown, a quirky area in the east of the city. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more varied selection of antiques, posters, records, artwork and knick knacks anywhere else in the city (or the world for that matter). If you like to rummage through flea markets this is THE place to be.