What's On in Brighton & Hove: 16 August 2026

Good Morning, Brighton

It's mid-August, that gorgeous pocket of summer when the city feels properly alive—locals are back, the seafront's buzzing, and there's a real sense of things happening. This week we're celebrating some brilliant news for Brighton's independent businesses, plus some cracking new eating spots to try. Let's dive in.

This Week in Brighton & Hove

- Dockerills Hardware Returns: The much-loved family-run hardware store, a Brighton institution for 109 years, has reopened in a cosy basement spot at Store Next Door in Five Ways. If you've been missing it, go say hello and support local.

- Champagne and Fromage Coming to The Lanes: The London favourite is heading to Brighton Place (the old Vurger Company site) with a proper French-style bistro. Planning permission is in, so watch this space for an opening date.

- Brighton's a Top-10 Foodie Destination: We've been ranked ninth in the country for food-led getaways. Our creative approach to cuisine and diverse eating scene are what's putting us on the map—feels good, doesn't it?

- Nano Fish & Chips Goes 100% Gluten-Free: Near London Road station, Nano has transformed into a dedicated gluten-free kitchen, bringing proper traditional British fish and chips to those with coeliac disease. A landmark move for the city.

This Weekend

Weather permitting (and it should be lovely), get yourself down to Brighton Beach—it's still peak season, the water's at its warmest, and the seafront's the place to be on a Saturday afternoon. Grab a swim, a paddle, or just a sit-down with a coffee and a good book.

If you fancy something a bit different, North Laine is our featured area this week—it's the bohemian heart of Brighton, just north of the station. The independent shops are brilliant for browsing, and if it's Saturday, the North Laine Market is on. Pop into Komedia on Gardner Street if there's anything tickling your fancy this weekend—500-capacity venue, always got something interesting on.

Hove's a bit quieter and lovely for a wander: Church Road has great independent shops and George Street is lined with restaurants if you fancy a proper sit-down meal.

Where to Eat and Drink This Week

Sticking with North Laine this week: Terre à Terre remains a brilliant spot if you're vegetarian or just fancy something creative and different—it's been a Brighton stalwart for years. If you want something more casual, grab a bite from one of the independent cafés dotted around the Laine itself.

And if you're after something proper proper, English's of Brighton over in The Lanes (seafood, been going since 1945) is always a safe bet. Or head to Cin Cin for Italian done well.

Don't forget about Nano Fish & Chips either—supporting their gluten-free pivot is a genuinely important local moment.

Worth Knowing

Autumn's coming faster than you'd think: Keep an eye out for Vagabond wine bar opening on Duke Street in The Lanes later this autumn—over 100 wines by the glass with a self-pour system. First high street venue outside London, so we're in for a treat.

Looking ahead: Saltdean Lido is welcoming dogs for their tenth annual Dogtember event across September and October—if you've got a pup (or know someone who does), it's brilliant fun. And The Levellers have announced a special hometown show at Hove Park celebrating 35 years of Levelling The Land. More details to come.

Have a brilliant week, Brighton. See you around.