The Lanes are the oldest part of Brighton, a maze of narrow alleyways known locally as twittens, hidden squares and tiny shops between East Street, Ship Street and North Street. Parts of the area date to the late sixteenth century, when Brighton was a small fishing town called Brighthelmstone, and the cramped layout still has an old-fashioned feel. The Lanes are known for their jewellers, antique dealers and boutiques, and for a very wide choice of restaurants, cafes and pubs, including the Cricketers on Black Lion Street, thought to be the oldest pub in the area, built around 1545. Just to the north, North Laine is the city's bohemian quarter, with brightly painted fronts, vintage shops, record stores, street food and independent cafes along Gardner Street, Kensington Gardens and Sydney Street. Together the two districts are the best free thing to do in Brighton, and you can walk between them in minutes.
There is no ticket for a stroll, only a few good habits. Start near the seafront end of the Lanes and let yourself get lost, then cross North Street into North Laine for a different mood. Shops usually open from mid-morning, and many stay open into the early evening, though smaller independents may close on Sundays or in winter. The Lanes can be very busy on summer weekends and in the weeks before Christmas, so weekdays and mornings are calmer. Some small shops do not take cash, so carry a card.
What to look for
Window displays of silver and gold in the jewellers' lanes, the glimpses of hidden squares through narrow archways, the newer Hanningtons Lane with its independent shops and street art, and a very good choice of food, from small-plates restaurants and vegetarian cooking to ice cream and gelato. In North Laine, wander past vintage clothing stores, record shops, quirky gift shops and cafes with queues out of the door. Street musicians add to the atmosphere at weekends, and in summer many restaurants set tables out of doors.
The area is easy to reach, about a ten-minute walk from Brighton station and a five-minute walk from the Palace Pier, which makes it ideal as the connector between the major sights. It pairs well with a food tour, the Royal Pavilion and the museum, and it is a handy place to shelter on a rainy afternoon. Pavements are often narrow and cobbled in the Lanes, so strollers and wheelchairs can find parts of it tricky, while North Laine is flatter and easier. Take a map, but do not worry about it.
What to expect
The experience
A free self-guided wander through narrow alleys and bohemian streets, with shops, cafes and pubs along the way.
Best time
Weekday mornings are calmer, and late afternoon is a pleasant time for a drink as the lights come on.
How long
One hour for a quick loop, up to three if you shop and stop for food.
Tips
Carry a card, wear comfortable shoes for cobbles, and avoid peak weekend afternoons if you dislike crowds.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Shoppers, browsers, food lovers and anyone wanting a free feel for the real Brighton.
- Families
- Fun for older children who like quirky shops, but narrow lanes can be busy at weekends.
- Couples
- Browse, find a cosy pub or a tiny restaurant, and let the evening unfold.
- Pair with
- The Royal Pavilion, Brighton Museum and a seafront walk.
- Time needed
- Allow one to three hours.
Good questions
What is the difference between the Lanes and North Laine?+
The Lanes are the old fishing-town alleys with jewellers and antiques, while North Laine is the nearby bohemian quarter of vintage, music and independent shops. They sit side by side and are easy to combine.
Is there an entry fee?+
No, both areas are public streets and free to explore. You only pay for what you buy or eat.
How far are the Lanes from Brighton station?+
About a ten-minute walk. The Palace Pier is about five minutes from the Lanes in the other direction.
When are the Lanes busiest?+
Summer weekends and the weeks before Christmas are the busiest times. Weekday mornings are much calmer.
Is the area accessible for wheelchairs?+
Parts of the Lanes have narrow, cobbled lanes that can be difficult, while North Laine is flatter. Plan a route in advance if you need step-free access.
