Brighton is one of those cities made for students. It’s got beach vibes mixed with city nightlife – sounds pretty perfect right? Plus it’s LGBTQ+-friendly, the Green Capital of Britain and close proximity to London. Oh an it’s home to two extremely well-known unis – the Uni of Sussex and the Uni of Brighton.
So as you can expect, student life in Brighton is pretty great. But if you’re new to the city, you’re in the right place. Unifresher’s guides to living in Brighton as a student cover all the important info like where to get the best coffee, where the best student bars are and the best places to get a cocktail. There’s also tips and insight like is Brighton a safe place for students and what are the things that make Brighton so famous to look out for. Check them out.
Brighton is home to two very different but equally respected universities, each offering its own take on student life by the sea.
The University of Sussex sits just outside the city in the South Downs and is known for its strong academic reputation, especially in subjects like international development, politics, and psychology. It has a big focus on research and global issues, with a campus that feels self-contained and green but still only a short bus ride from the buzz of Brighton. Sussex tends to attract students looking for a mix of serious study and laid-back campus life.
The University of Brighton is more spread out, with sites across the city and further along the coast. It leans more towards hands-on, career-focused courses — from art and architecture to nursing, sport science, and teaching. It’s well-connected to local industries and puts a big emphasis on real-world experience, placements, and practical learning.
Between them, these two universities reflect what Brighton’s all about — a mix of creativity, independence, and a strong sense of community. Whether you’re looking for a research-led degree or something more applied and professional, Brighton offers plenty of choice in a city that’s as lively as it is welcoming.
Check out our university reviews for a deeper look at what each university — and the city itself — has to offer.
New to Brighton or already living here but keen to explore a bit more? Whether you’re just arriving for uni, searching for your next student house, or scouting out weekend hangouts, we’ve got you covered. Brighton’s neighbourhoods each have their own personality — from the creative buzz of North Laine to the relaxed, beachy feel of Hove and the student-packed streets of Moulsecoomb and Lewes Road.
If you’re moving to the city for the first time, don’t worry — Brighton’s super easy to get around, and every area has something to offer. Whether you’re after somewhere lively, laid-back, or just close to campus, there’s a corner of the city that’s right for you.
Here’s your guide to the neighbourhoods every student should know about — whether you’re just settling in or looking to mix things up.
This is the heart of Brighton’s student life. Close to both University of Brighton and University of Sussex campuses, Moulsecoomb and the Lewes Road corridor are packed with student houses, takeaways, supermarkets, and pubs. It’s lively, practical, and affordable — ideal if you want to be close to uni and surrounded by fellow students.
A bit uphill from the city centre, Elm Grove and Hanover are super popular with students looking for a balance between peace and atmosphere. Think colourful terraced houses, friendly pubs, and plenty of character. It’s a bit quieter than Lewes Road, but still well-connected and full of charm.
If you want to be near the sea and don’t mind paying a bit more, Kemptown could be your spot. It’s got an eclectic, alternative vibe, with lots of independent shops, cafes, and vintage stores. Plus, you’re only a short walk from the beach — ideal for study breaks or morning swims (if you’re brave).
Living in the city centre puts you right in the middle of the action. North Laine is full of quirky shops, record stores, vegan cafes, and places to grab a coffee and people-watch. Rent can be steep here, but the energy and convenience make up for it if you love being at the heart of everything.
Technically a separate town, but closely connected to Brighton, Hove offers a more laid-back vibe. It’s a bit more grown-up, popular with postgrads and students looking for quieter surroundings. The beach here is less crowded, and you’ll find a good mix of local pubs and chilled spots. Travel time to campus is a little longer, but it’s a nice trade-off for the peacefulness.
Just north of Moulsecoomb, Hollingdean is an often-overlooked area with cheaper rents and good links to both universities. It’s mainly residential, with a local community feel — a solid option if you want to save money and don’t mind being a bit out of the way.
Brighton’s nightlife is one of the best things about living here — it’s got a bit of everything. Whether you’re into big club nights, cheap student deals, live gigs, or just a chilled pint with your mates, you’ll always find somewhere to go. From dance floors at PRYZM to indie nights at Chalk, and live music at Patterns, there’s something happening every night of the week.
Not feeling the club scene? No problem. Brighton’s packed with cosy pubs, quirky bars, drag nights, and plenty of places to grab food after hours (yes, there’s more than one solid kebab shop). Our guides will help you find the best student-friendly spots, what nights are actually worth showing up for, and where to head when you’re not quite ready to go home.
Brighton has a vibe all its own — and student life here goes way beyond the lecture theatre. Whether you’re into creative scenes, outdoor escapes, or just discovering somewhere different, there’s always something happening.
Dive into Brighton’s indie spirit with everything from offbeat theatre and spoken word nights to local art shows tucked away in seaside galleries. The city’s music scene is amazing too — you’ll find everything from up-and-coming bands in small venues to big-name acts at Brighton Centre.
There’s loads of room for the spontaneous too: late-night food spots, hidden cafés, pop-up markets, and neighbourhoods full of character. Whether you’re chilling in a park with mates or discovering a new local hangout, Brighton’s full of small surprises that make everyday student life better.
Our student guides will show you how to enjoy the best of Brighton, by discovering new places and finding inspiration no matter your mood.
Brighton more than delivers when it comes to food and drink. Whether you’re after a cheap-and-cheerful lunch between lectures, a cosy roast by the sea, or brunch with all the extras, the city’s packed with spots to suit every taste and budget. Think quirky cafés, seaside pubs, street food stalls, and veggie-friendly finds around every corner.
From student favourites along London Road to tucked-away treasures in Kemptown or North Laine, there’s always somewhere new to check out — whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for something special.
Our guides round up the best food and drink in Brighton — whether you’re counting pennies, marking a win, or just in desperate need of a 3am snack.
Brighton’s got everything you need to stay sorted as a student — from shopping to self-care and all the little essentials in between. Whether you’re after a wardrobe refresh, a quick food shop, or a tidy-up before a night out, you’re in the right place.
Churchill Square’s got all the high street staples, while the Lanes are perfect for vintage gems and indie finds. Need a trim, a fresh fade, or a quick beauty fix? There are plenty of student-friendly salons and barbers offering discounts if you show your ID.
Our guides will help you find the best-value spots around town — so you can spend less, stress less, and get on with uni life.
At Unifresher, we understand student life because our guides are written by students, for students. From nightlife and local advice to saving money and finding hidden gems, every article is designed to make your university experience unforgettable.
