Portland Road isn’t an area well-known outside Brighton & Hove, but that could be on the cusp of changing, as word of this western enclave in Hove, just a few streets back from the beach, has started to spread.

A city village in its own right, Portland Road’s charm has been quietly growing and turning heads for the last few years. From the junction with Westbourne Street to just beyond Hove Junior School, you’ll find a vibrant hub of independent businesses, including boutiques, gift shops, cafés and restaurants.

It’s easy to underestimate just how many places will pique your interest in this neck of the woods. Freshly made dim sum, eco-friendly toys, vintage furniture, bespoke jewellery made on site, deluxe candles and pre-loved clothes are just some of the treats that’ll reel you in for a closer look. This is an area where a second hand vacuum cleaner shop fits in perfectly with an uber-stylish garden shop. Such is the magnetic pull of this neighbourhood, that the only way to move on is to visit Barnes + Binns general store which is so alluring, it’ll make you want to stock up on bodycare and homeware essentials and return to your accommodation to use them immediately!

There are also plenty of cafés in the area – both chain and indie – so you’ll have no trouble finding good coffee, but you might struggle when forced to choose between Instagrammable pancakes and authentic Sicilian delicacies. Or if you’re looking to book a gourmet experience for a special occasion, Ciaráns’ offers a once-a-week BYO supper club in addition to its normal service. Many of the local pubs have also undergone refurbs in recent years and are popular places to eat and drink, and are family-friendly too.

Easily reached by a short bus ride from the city centre or by train via Aldrington Station, Portland Road also has its own trails during the Artists Open House Festivals in May and December.