This article was written by Chloe Miller, a student writer based in Brighton.
Brighton is a vibrant seaside city with plenty to offer students looking for something to do at night. There’s comedy clubs and mini golf, and even just a stroll along the beach under the stars. There’s so many options for if you’re looking for things to do in Brighton at night, but don’t feel like doing the same old thing. Take your pick from these 10 best nighttime activities in Brighton and get to know the city by moonlight.

1. Take a walk along the seafront

Take a walk along the seafront
Source: Pexels
One of the best free activities in Brighton at night is taking a scenic walk along the seaside promenade. Strolling along the waterfront after dark with the sea breeze in your hair is a quintessential Brighton experience, and the beaches and iconic Brighton Palace Pier take on a magical atmosphere when illuminated at night. Be sure to check out the Victorian-era pier after dark when it lights up with bright rides and attractions, or wander past the old fisherman’s arches near the marina. 

2. Try mini golf along Madeira Drive

Enjoy a round of mini golf at the iconic Jungle Rumble. This jungle-themed mini golf course located along the seafront on Madeira Drive is open until late, particularly during the summer months, making it the perfect evening activity. Wind your way through rainforests, treetop jungles and caveman courses as you putt your way through their two creative 18-hole courses. It’s the perfect place to challenge your mates and hone your golfing skills.

3. See live music at free venues

One of the best parts of Brighton’s vibrant nightlife scene is the abundance of free live music at pubs and bars around town. Many venues offer free gigs and student nights throughout the week where you can discover up-and-coming bands for the cost of a drink. With its rich music culture, Brighton offers no shortage of opportunities to catch excellent free bands any night of the week.

4. Go comedy clubbing at the Komedia or Krater

Go comedy clubbing at the Komedia or Krater
Source: Komedia Brighton Instagram
For laughs after dark, be sure to check out some of the comedy nights at the Komedia. This iconic comedy and performing arts venue situated down the North Laine hosts comedy club nights where you can catch some of the UK’s best up-and-coming stand-up talent. The Krater Comedy Club performs every weekend and offers discounted tickets for students, making it an affordable night out. 

5. Enjoy a spot of volleyball

For some active fun along the shore, gather your crew for a friendly beach volleyball match. Set right on the seafront between the Brighton Palace Pier and Marina, Yellowave offers illuminated courts for rent into the evening hours. Grab a court and play competitive or casual volleyball as the sea breeze rolls in. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, you can rent a court as late as 9pm, allowing you to dig, set and spike well after dark. 

6. Get spooked on a ghost tour of the Lanes

Get spooked on a ghost tour of the Lanes
Source: Visit Brighton
For a creepy nighttime activity, join a ghost walk of the Lanes to hear chilling tales of Brighton’s paranormal past. These haunted history tours led by a dramatised Victorian guide visit some of the most haunted sites in the winding alleys of the Lanes Quarter. As you walk by old buildings like the Black Lion Brewery and Brighton Old Town Hall, your guide will regale you with stories of murder, ghosts, poltergeists and Brighton’s Jack the Ripper connections. It’s a quirky way to uncover the city’s rich history and supernatural folklore. 

7. Embark on a pub crawl

For a quintessential Brighton night out, embark on a pub crawl through the winding lanes and alleyways in the city centre. Brighton is packed with a wide array of pubs and bars, from the ultra-modern to themed and historic, giving you plenty to choose from. Why not start at Bath Arms on Meeting House Lane, which has been pouring pints since 1864, before heading to The Pump House just up the road to enjoy real ales. The narrow lanes also lead to historic gems like The Lion and Lobster, Black Lion and The Cricketers — each offering their own unique, historic atmosphere. 

8. Experience a dazzling cabaret show

Indulge in Brighton's fruity nature at Proud Cabaret
Source : Proud Cabaret
For a truly unique night out in Brighton, head to Proud Cabaret in the lively Kemptown neighbourhood for an evening of mesmerising cabaret entertainment. This retro venue, loaded with history, transports guests back to the Roaring Twenties with its art deco ballroom style. Talented cabaret performers take the stage nightly to dazzle audiences with show-stopping vocals, dance, burlesque and vaudeville-style acts. With new shows rotating regularly, it’s a fabulous night out that embodies the essence of theatrical Brighton. 

9. Test your logic in an escape room

For an immersive and exciting nighttime activity, gather a team and take on one of the themed escape rooms in Brighton. These challenging “escape the room” experiences put your puzzle-solving and critical thinking skills to the test as you work against the clock to crack codes, find clues and break out of different tricky scenarios. Each room has an elaborate set design and storyline that pulls you into the adventure. It’s an adrenaline-pumping activity perfect for a fun team night out. 

10. Hit Brighton’s most popular clubs

Hit Brighton’s most popular clubs
Source: Pexels
Lastly, no trip to Brighton is complete without experiencing the city’s legendary club scene. Head to The Arch along the seafront to catch DJ sets from top artists in a massive venue with stellar light shows, or for a trendy underground vibe, check out the live bands and DJs at Green Door Store, set in a former 19th-century railway arch. With acclaimed clubs and plenty of student nights to take advantage of, Brighton offers electric nightlife options to suit any music taste.  Brighton comes alive after dark, offering budget-conscious students an abundance of cheap and free entertainment. From mini golf along the seafront to chilling ghost tours in the shadowy Lanes, Brighton’s nightlife offers unique activities and experiences. Take advantage of these wallet-friendly activities and make the most of Brighton’s vibrant after-hours culture as a student.

Last Updated on June 12, 2025

Published on September 22, 2023

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  • Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.

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