The charming seaside resort of Brighton isn’t referred to as ‘the gay capital of the UK’ for no reason. Its winding streets, grandiose architecture, and sun-baked seafront have been a magnet for Bohemian LGBT revellers from all over the globe for years. With an abundance of gay-oriented cafes, bars, nightclubs, saunas, and theatres waiting to welcome enthusiastic visitors, a trip to this city – an hour’s train ride from London – would make a memorable experience. Brighton Pride, running from the 4th – the 7th of August this summer, is only a dozen weeks away – and counting! This is the period when you can become immersed in everything the fabulous gay capital has to offer. So, why not start organizing your Brighton adventure now? To give your plans a boost, here is all you need to about how to get ready for Pride 2023!
Find a like-minded partner
Long before you look out the suitcase from last year’s vacation (and if you’re traveling from abroad, check that your passport is up-to-date), you’ll need to reach out to a travel companion. Brighton Pride is a fabulous place to kindle romance. Whether you’re a ‘vanilla’ gay guy, or you prefer exploring more risqué themes via gay fetish dating sites, you can go online to interact with a diverse range of handsome dudes. If you’ve ever considered yourself to be a little shy or awkward when flirting with strangers, the online dating environment would be a terrific place to start getting to know other gay singles. Why not pop into the chat rooms where you can discuss subjects as varied as your favourite fetishes, to what to wear to the main Pride parade? You’ll find it so easy to touch base in this relaxed and inclusive atmosphere and will soon be kindling the flames of romance.
Choose a hotel to stay in
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to gay-friendly hotels in this location. You could book into Legends, situated on Marine Parade. This has everything any Pride attendee might wish to have on their wishlist – panoramic views of Brighton Pier and the English Channel, luxuriously-appointed rooms, a mouth-watering breakfast menu, and its very own nightclub (the Basement Club, located in the hotel’s … well, can you guess by its title?!) The Grand Hotel is easily Brighton’s most famous hotel, and despite its magnificent façade, the interior is bright and contemporary. Taking afternoon tea here is always an invigorating experience. Another recommended option is the Square Townhouse, located in the heart of the city’s ultra-fashionable Kemp Town (or should that be camp town?) Its elegant Regency design creates the perfect ambiance, while the cocktail lounge menu offers tantalizing treats.
Know the history of Brighton Pride
The annual LGBT festival was the first of its kind to be held in Britain, and this year’s event is likely to attract close to half a million partygoers. Commencing with a gay rights demonstration in 1972, Pride got going in 1991, when there were mass protests against the Conservative Government’s introduction of ‘Section 28, which outlawed the promotion of homosexuality by local authorities, therefore treating the LGBT community as second-class citizens. As ever, this merely ignited gays and lesbians across the country to congregate on Brighton to make their voices heard. The 30th anniversary Pride event had to be delayed due to the pandemic, but Pride 2022 more than made up for the temporary hiatus. Events include the traditional parade along the seafront, involving decorated floats, music events, club nights, the arts and film festival, and even a dog show.
Select events you want to see
With so much going on during Pride’s frantic few days, you need to plan your itinerary carefully. This year’s musical headliners include the Black Eyed Peas, Zara Larsson, Confidence Man, ex-Spice Girl and gay icon, Melanie C, and Kings and Queens of cheese, 90s pop group, Steps. There are well over 100 LGBTQ artists to choose from, so your biggest headache will be narrowing down the possibilities. Pride at the Ironworks is a season of gaudy cabaret performances, as well as some fabulous stand-up comedy. The Village Party will see Brighton opening its arms to the world with drag shows, DJs, cabaret, musicians, and many other performers.
It can be such fun getting immersed in Brighton Pride, but there might be occasions when you feel like taking a step back from the street parties and all-night clubbing. At times, it’s also nice to chill out and relax with your partner and friends. Sipping a delicious latte at a café’s outside table while watching colourful Brighton passing by takes some beating! You might take the opportunity to dip into a shaded arcade to relieve your early teenage years by playing some exciting games. Or, simply take a stroll, hand-in-hand, along the seafront.
