Brighton has a long history of association with sex and sexualities, and from the mid 20th century it became known as a ‘gay and lesbian’ (and now LGBTQ) hotspot. As more LGBTQ people came to the city they made use of existing spaces for socialising, sex, activism, and community-building – and started to create their own spaces too.

We are therefore taking a guided tour:

Brighton’s LGBTQ Spaces – Then, Now, Next

  • Date: Wednesday Feb 23rd
  • Time: 2pm – 3.30pm
  • Start location: Old Steine Gardens fountain

To join our walking tour event : order a free ticket here

This 90 minute guided walk around central Brighton will introduce you to the oldest and the newest LGBTQ spaces in the city.

23 FEBRUARY 2- 3.30PM LGBTQ HISTORY MONTH GUIDEDWALK, ‘LGBTQ BRIGHTON –THEN, NOW, NEXT’, WITH DR NICK MCGLYNN AND DR REBECCA SEARLE

Led by University of Brighton lecturers Dr Nick McGlynn (Human Geography) and Dr Rebecca Searle (Contemporary History) – both specialists in LGBTQ issues – you’ll visit sites of:

  • early discreet gay bars,
  • ‘cottages’ used for public sex,
  • women’s and lesbian activism,
  • clubbing and partying,
  • and remembering those lost to HIV/AIDS.

Along the way you’ll learn about the differences in Brighton’s LGBTQ spaces over the past century, recent changes in their use, and the real concerns over their future. The walk will end at The Ledward Centre – Brighton’s LGBTQ+ community and cultural centre – where you’ll hear from the Ledward centre’s director about this brand new space and its role in the city’s future.