Explore Brighton’s North Laine and The Lanes — discover independent shops, street art, vintage fashion, and seaside charm in the city’s creative heart.

Brighton’s Most Colourful Corners

Looking for Brighton’s creative soul? You’ll find it winding through North Laine and The Lanes — two neighbouring districts that capture everything Brighton stands for: freedom, creativity, and coastal charm.

From independent boutiques and cafés to vibrant murals and street performers, these maze-like streets form the beating heart of the city’s cultural life.

North Laine: Bohemian Brighton

The North Laine area (note the old Sussex spelling of “Laine,” meaning open fields) is Brighton’s creative quarter, packed with quirky shops, galleries, and cafés.

Once a 19th-century working-class neighbourhood, it has become a magnet for artists, students, and free spirits. Every street bursts with colour, individuality, and energy.

Highlights

Kensington Gardens – The main shopping street, full of vintage clothing, records, and handmade crafts.

Brighton Open Market – Covered market with stalls selling local produce and art.

Street art & murals – Look out for works by Banksy and local artists around Trafalgar Street.

From organic cafés to record stores, North Laine is where Brighton’s creativity lives and breathes.

The Lanes: History and Elegance

Just a few steps south lies The Lanes, a maze of narrow alleyways dating back to Brighton’s 18th-century fishing village. In contrast to North Laine’s bohemian buzz, The Lanes offer elegance and charm, with cobbled streets lined with jewellers, antique shops, and cosy restaurants.

What to Explore

Jewellery boutiques – Some of the best independent jewellers in the UK.

Antique shops – Perfect for treasure hunting and vintage finds.

Hidden cafés and wine bars – Great for a quiet afternoon escape.

The Lanes are especially magical in the evening when lights reflect off the cobblestones and buskers fill the air with music.

Food, Drink & Independent Culture

Both North Laine and The Lanes are foodie havens.

Café culture: Try Pelicano Coffee Co., Trading Post Coffee Roasters, or Café Coho.

Street food: Head to Brighton Open Market for local vendors and vegan bites.

Evening dining: Enjoy fine seafood at Riddle & Finns or global cuisine at The Chilli Pickle.

Don’t forget to stop for ice cream at Boho Gelato — a local favourite.

Learn more about Brighton dining on Visit Brighton

Art, Music & Street Life

Brighton’s creative scene shines here:

Art galleries: Visit Enter Gallery, North Laine Gallery, and Art5 for contemporary works.

Music: Catch live gigs at Komedia or enjoy buskers performing across the streets.

Festivals: During Brighton Festival and Fringe, these streets explode with performances and pop-up art.

See our guides on UK cultural quarters and creative spaces

Shopping with Personality

Forget the chains — this is Brighton’s kingdom of individuality.
You’ll find:

Retro fashion at Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry.

Handcrafted jewellery at Jewel Thief and Baroque.

Eco-conscious design at stores championing sustainability and local craft.

Every shop has a story, and every purchase supports a maker.

Getting There

Both areas are just minutes from Brighton Station:

By foot: 5–10 minutes’ walk from the station.

By car: Limited parking; use city centre car parks or Park & Ride.

By train: Regular service from London, Gatwick, and along the south coast.

Cycling: Secure bike parking throughout the city centre.

Why Visit Brighton’s North Laine & The Lanes?

Few places in England mix heritage, creativity, and seaside charm quite like Brighton. North Laine and The Lanes capture the city’s free-spirited essence — where art, food, and individuality come alive in every alleyway.

Wander the streets, meet the makers, and experience the true soul of Brighton.