Across the UK, Brighton’s name might be more well-known, but Hove – or “Hove Actually” as it’s known locally – is both synonymous with Brighton as well as having its own distinct and equally striking identity.

Somewhere along Western Road, the main shopping street that runs between Churchill Square and Palmeira Square, Brighton gradually merges into Hove – possibly where the large commercial shops start to blend into independent ones. From the less commercial end of Western Road, along Church Road to the junction with Sackville Road, you’ll find yourself firmly in Hove, Brighton’s slightly more genteel – but just as exciting – other half.

Along the seafront, Hove is all majestic squares, crescents and leafy communal gardens, with buttercream-coloured buildings that dazzle when the sky is blue. Back from the sea you can saunter along grand avenues, admiring white-washed villas and commanding blocks of flats still only a hop, skip and a jump from the beach. From the far end of Western Road and all along Church Road, you’ll find independent shops galore from fashionable boutiques to book shops, from delicatessens to chocolateries to refill stores. There are eateries of every kind for every type of budget, including cheap and cheerful cafés, chic bistros and book-way-in-advance award-winning restaurants. Whether it’s a fancy full English, vegan pizza, or some top-notch fine dining, whatever whets your appetite, you don’t need to make your way into Brighton, because Hove’s already got it.

At the far end of Church Road, you’ll find George Street, a pedestrianised road with a mix of cafés, pubs, shops and charity shops that leads you to Blatchington Road where you’ll find more niche shops selling vintage clothes, pre-loved toys and second-hand furniture.

On the pub front, whether you’re looking for a pint with some accompanying live music, a cosy local watering hole for a quiet drink, or some classic pub grub, Hove’s not lacking in great places to go for a drink either. Alternatively, if you want to discover some different gins or drink an Instagram-worthy cocktail, you can be sure to find it in Hove (actually).