Brighton is full of a veritable slew of sporting activities. Its close proximity to water handily leads to a cacophony of watersport activities. The lush rolling hills to the north of the city are home to multiple golf courses.
And naturally, there’s Brighton and Hove Albion, who have quickly risen from lovable underdogs to the pride of the City.
While at one time 5/4 to go down as second-favourites for relegation after their promotion in 2017/18, you’d be hard-pressed now to find similar odds at one of the many UK bookmakers these days.
Golf
Brighton surprisingly boasts multiple high-quality Golf Courses, but the most well-regarded comes in the form of Hollingbury Park Golf Course. A Par 72 that has hosted The Open, that also features state-of-the-art facilities, lessons from their resident former professional and a whole host of other niceties.
If you’re looking for a slightly more casual golfing experience that still provides all the challenge and scenery of a high-class course; Brighton and Hove Golf Club offers up a sumptuous 9-hole course with 18 tees for a little bit of variation on the back 9.
Brighton and Hove Golf Club Address: Devil’s Dyke Rd, Brighton BN1 8YJ
Website: www.brightongolf.co.uk
Hollingbury Park Golf Course Address: Ditchling Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 7HS
Website: www.hollingburygc.info
Water Sports
When it comes to activities on the water, Brighton has you well and truly covered. Kayaking, Wind Surfing, Paddleboarding, Sailing, Surfing and even rentable Jet Ski’s if you want to roleplay a villain from Miami: Vice. Brighton’s got you covered if your spiritual home is out on the water.
There’s no need to brave the sea either! The man-made ‘Lagoon’ just inland from the beach hosts all of the above activities. Explore their options for lessons or regular sessions for versed in water-based sports that are available to book. Naturally, all levels of experience are welcome
If you’re really feeling out there, why not try your hand at a spot of Sailing? Take in that sea air, feel the wind in your hair and guide your vessel as you please.
Lagoon Watersports Address: Hove Lagoon, 330 Kingsway, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 4LX
Website: www.lagoon.co.uk
Football
Of course, with a bustling Premier League team attracting plenty of praise, football in all it’s forms is swelling in popularity.
At grassroots level, you’ll find ample opportunity to play no matter your current ability.
There are plenty of Sunday league teams to try out for, all with varying ability levels, allowing any interested in playing some competitive football the opportunity to reignite a passion for playing the beautiful game.
But I know some might be averse even to competitive football at its lowest level. Maybe you instead yearn for the days of youth of playing against each other for fun; only this time without the burden of that one kid that was so much better than everyone else.
Well, thanks to ‘Terrible Football’ you can enjoy a mixed bag of ability. Without over-competitiveness or the fear of being berated for missing a pass even Roberto Carlos himself would struggle with.
All-inclusive, regardless of gender and skill level, teams are made on arrival. It’s a great way to meet new people. Meet-ups are on Saturdays at 9:30 a.m., and you can learn more about it here.
Finally, if your playing days are behind you, there’s no going wrong with the classic Premier League matchday experience.
Flying high after proving their doubters wrong year after year, Brighton has put together a competitive team able to battle with the likes of Man United, Chelsea and Newcastle, with a fraction of the budget.
Having qualified for Europe, be on the lookout for a chance to experience the majesty of European nights. Or if tickets go too quickly, a classic Premier League fixture is never dull when surrounded by the passionate, witty but well-behaved Brightonian fans.
You can enjoy all of the atmosphere and fan culture of a great Premier League match, without the unsavoury side that pervades many other clubs’ fanbases.
Their next home game takes place on the 12th of November. Brighton face a Sheffield United side yet to win a game, and still sitting on 1 point after 10 games.
Sounds like an easy win to me.
Or if you would prefer something this weekend, you could checkout the women’s side, as they face Manchester United at home, over at the Broadfield Stadium in Crawley. Its a fixture that has all the hallmarks of a cracking game of football!
‘Terrible’ Football: www.meetup.com/terrible-football-brighton-group
Brighton Men’s Team: tickets.brightonandhovealbion.com
Brighton Women’s Team: www.brightonandhovealbion.com/fixtures/womens
