Just under a two-hour drive south of London, the historic seaside resort of Brighton has consistently become the UK’s leading gay resort destination, with many gay bars, restaurants and hotels catering to the community. In early August, which was already a popular time for vacationers, the town, along with the neighboring town of Hove (combined population of 375,000), hosts Brighton & Hove Gay Pride. This year’s Brighton Pride Parade and Festival date is August 6, 2016, but there are Pride-related events held here during the days before, from July 22 to August 7.
A big highlight is the Brighton Pride Arts and Film Festival , comprising more than 20 performances and related events during the main two weeks of Pride.
The Brighton Pride Parade, which draws some 160,000 participants and spectators each year, takes place at 11am on Saturday, August 6; the procession begins at the iconic Brighton Wheel on Madeira Drive. That same day, the Bright Pride Festival continues from noon to 10 pm in Preston Park and features a host of talents.
Brighton Gay Resources
Brighton’s many gay bars and other businesses are especially busy during Pride. Check out online resources such as Gay Brighton & Hove, GayBrighton.com, and the Gay Brighton Online Guide for more ideas on the local gay scene. Also take a look at the excellent gay travel site produced by the city’s official tourism organization, Visit Brighton.