The Lanes in Brighton

Once the heart of the old fishing town of Brighthelmstone, Brighton Lanes' historic quarter is an intricate maze of twisting alleyways, offering an extraordinary mix of antiques and jewellery nestling among specialist contemporary boutique fashion and design shops.

In the hidden squares, elegant arcades and winding passages of the south Lanes, Brighton, you'll find bespoke perfumes and sea air mixing with freshly roasted coffee and the aroma of Italian cooking.

Check out Unique Brighton for more on the specialist shops in the Brighton Lanes, North Laine and North Street area.

Soak up the history of Brighton south Lanes

A pebble's throw from the beach and the Royal Pavilion, you can lazily soak up Brighton's south lanes history. Four hundred year-old fishermen's cottages and flint stone exteriors sit alongside cosy pubs and brick-paved twittens, whilst the spirit of royal, literary and cinematic connections of a bygone age linger in the air. Wander through Black Lion Lane, once allegedly the escape route of Charles 11, or meander into Quadrophenia Alley - a nod to the Mods and Rockers of the 60s and a key scene in the cult film Quadrophenia.

Crammed with quaint and wonderous shops, restaurants and cafes, the Brighton Lanes are best wandered lazily and explored as you find them. You'll often find buskers livening up the streets, making the Lanes a great place to grab a coffee and soak up the history to the sounds of some summer jazz.

Take a walking tour of the Lanes in Brighton

Brighton city walking tours also start from the Brighton Lanes, catering for a variety of interests, including film locations, literary connections, murder mysteries and ghosthunting. Tourist Tracks also offer a handy downloadable walking tour of the Brighton South Lanes.

If you need further advice on the Lanes in Brighton call 0906 711 2255 or email us on brighton-tourism@brighton-hove.gov.uk.