Some consider it an extended suburb of London. In fact, a colourful past and free-spirited present mean Brighton offers fresh ideas to event organisers. In this segment, we take a look at the best venues and teambuilding options.
Venues
In the late 18th century, the Prince Regent chose to build a ‘pleasure palace’ here. Today, his old manor can host an array of private events
The
Royal Pavilion Estate (03000 290905) is undergoing a comprehensive overhaul that will redefine Brighton’s ‘cultural quarter’.
Remaining open for the duration, the Taj Mahal-inspired Royal Pavilion offers its state rooms, with their remarkable oriental interiors, for private soirées; the lavish Banqueting Room stands out for important 90-person dinners. Opposite, the Old Courtroom has retractable lecture-style seating for 152 people, while Brighton Museum & Art Gallery – once the estate’s stables – is available for evening receptions.
The refurb of Grade I-listed
Brighton Dome Corn Exchange (01273 261524) will finish towards the end of 2018; with it will come the new Creation Space, a breakout area to the Studio Theatre. The adjoining 1,700-capacity concert hall is staying open throughout the works.
For something entirely different, check out
Brighton Music Hall (01273 985552). Besides the main space, its 16-seater pop-up Igloos will be great for Christmas dinners.
Teambuilding
Three fun things you just couldn’t do in Zones 1-6
The world’s tallest moving observation tower went up on the seafront last year. The
i360 (01273 448360) can take 175 guests 138m up in the air for exclusive fizz-fuelled ‘flights’. At beach level, there are nine event spaces, including two with seafront terraces. Exclusive-hire capacity is 1,100.
From the Turbo Coaster to the Horror Hotel, everything on the 19th-century
Palace Pier (01273 609361) is available to hire. Groups can book the whole thing for themselves, or you can set them loose among the crowds armed with unlimited-ride wristbands. A refurb over Christmas will see it refreshed for 2018.
Drive 20 minutes from Brighton to the South Downs and you’ll find the
Ridgeview Wine Estate (01444 242040). Groups of up to 20 can see the vineyard that produces some of England’s finest sparklers, then repair to the tasting room to try the latest vintages.
Now head here to find out about our favourite hotels and restaurants for events in Brighton.