University of Sussex International Study Centre

Life at Sussex

Brighton - the UK's most exciting seaside city

The city of Brighton is located just eight minutes by train from the University of Sussex campus. Brighton has everything - great shopping and entertainment, many cafes and restaurants, together with a relaxed seaside culture. With students forming 10 per cent of the population, the city has a truly cosmopolitan atmosphere. This is a city where you will feel very welcome.

Brighton's atmosphere

Brighton is famous for its unique atmosphere - there is simply no other city in the UK quite like it. Brighton is a friendly, welcoming place. It is modern and forward looking yet also classically English. Architecture ranges from the strikingly new to the fascinatingly old. In summer the city really comes alive, with the annual arts festival, beachside concerts and outdoor cinema screenings.

Brighton's entertainment

Brighton has cinemas ranging from large multiplexes to small independents. There are numerous theatres and venues for live music. Classical music lovers are well catered for at the Dome, one of Brighton's concert venues. Home to the Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra, the 1,800-capacity Dome also plays host to blues, pop, rock, jazz, dub, world and club. The Brighton Centre and Concorde 2 are Brighton's major rock and pop venues.

Brighton's restaurants

Brighton has some of the best restaurants outside London. Whatever your taste, you are sure to find it catered for. The centre of Brighton is full of restaurants offering a range of cuisine: French, Italian, Spanish, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Indian and vegetarian. Brighton also has perhaps some of the best traditional fish and chips in England.

Brighton's shopping

With the best shopping south of London, Brighton's shops are all within walking distance of one another. There are large department stores and many smaller specialist shops catering for every need. For more up-market merchandise, The Lanes area in central Brighton offers expensive antiques, exclusive fashions and jewellery.

Brighton's events

The highlight of the cultural year is the annual Brighton Festival. Held in May, it is England's biggest arts festival, attracting hundreds of performers over a three-week period. Other Brighton events include the London to Brighton Bike Ride, Party in the Park, Pride, the Veteran Car Run and the Brighton Comedy Festival. In fact, there is something going on nearly every weekend.

Brighton and beyond

Brighton is ideally placed to explore other parts of the UK. If you want all the attractions of a world-class city, London is only an hour away by train. Just outside the city is some of the most beautiful countryside in England. The nearby South Downs provide breathtaking views, great walks and plenty of opportunities for paragliding, mountain biking, hiking or picnics. Nearby, are the historic towns of Lewes, Arundel, Chichester and many picturesque villages.

Key journey times

• Eight minutes from the University campus to Brighton
• 60 minutes from Brighton to central London
• 30 minutes from Brighton to London Gatwick airport
• 90 minutes from Brighton to London Heathrow airport

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