Brighton is famous for being one of the most liberal and friendly cities in Europe.
Beautiful Backdrops
Ok, so we’ve all heard Brighton being referred to as London-by-the-Sea, but there’s so much more this city can offer filmmakers beyond bustling streets and urban backdrops. Easily accessible by public transport, bike, or car, the South Downs National Park boasts 1,600km2 of diverse and picturesque natural beauty- a cinematographer’s dream.
From the dramatic white cliffs of Seven Sisters, to the Court Garden Vineyard, and the woodlands of Western Weald, you’re quite literally spoiled for scenic choice, and at just a stone’s throw from Brighton & Hove, the South Downs National Park is perfectly positioned for filmmaking students to make the most of all year round.
Eating Out
Whatever your taste and budget you’ll find plenty of places to eat in Brighton. There are over 400 restaurants, more than anywhere in the UK outside of London, which provide food from all cuisines. Around every corner you’re likely to find your new favourite, but some of ours are Fatto a Manno, Poppy’s and Alcampo Lounge (all conveniently placed on London Road), Easy Tiger (Indian small plates) and La Choza (amazing Mexican street food).
Dietary requirements? Don’t stress- Brighton is spoilt for choice with its wide range of vegan & vegetarian eateries. Check out Purezza (plant-based pizzas), Happy Maki (vegan sushi) and BEELZEBAB’S at The Hope & Ruin (vegan hot dogs, kebabs and loaded fries).
Snooping Around
The proud home of all things weird and wonderful, you’ll never tire of scouring the city’s quirky shops for props and costumes. Big name stores can be found in Churchill Square shopping centre and on Western Road, but if you’re looking for something a little more offbeat, head for a stroll through the iconic North Laine where you’ll find a treasure trove of curious oddities in Snoopers Paradise and Upper Gardner Street Saturday Market, all waiting to star in your next film or spark your imagination. Fancy a bit of thrifty shopping? No problem, you’d be hard pressed to find a street in the city without your choice of charity shops to go bargain hunting in.
Out On The Town
When the sun sets, Brighton’s legendary nightlife kicks in. The city boasts over 200 pubs and bars; the most bars and pubs per square mile than any other city in the UK. If you fancy a bit of a Saturday night dance, look no further than the brilliant Green Door Store’s 80’s night- It Is Still 1985. If you’re after something more relaxed, make sure to explore the cozy nooks and crannies of The Lion and Lobster, a traditional pub spanning three floors- including a beautiful hidden roof terrace!
That Festival Feeling
Brighton & Hove can’t get enough of the arts, and we’ve got the festivals to prove it! From Brighton Fringe, to The Great Escape Fesitval, Brighton Pride, and CineCity Brighton Film Festival, this cultural hub seems to be celebrating all things film, music, theatre, and art, all year round. With plenty of opportunities to get stuck in, and a busy calendar full of must-see events, you’ll certainly never be bored.
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