When the weather outside is frightful, hiding under the duvet might seem like the only option. But that's where you'd be wrong. Beat the blues this year with a bucket list of shindigs that will thaw even the iciest of hearts. From comedy shows to festive bashes and immersive experiences, we've rounded up the best things to do in Brighton this winter.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 29th January 2025
The Fabulous Brunch Events Brighton know how to party this winter, thanks to their Bougie Drag Bottomless Brunch events and Buff Bingo ones too. Whatever you fancy, you're in for plenty of raucous, high-energy fun with tickets starting from £16 each.
Meet some of the UK's leading queens such as Honey Foxx, Kiki Snatch (as seen on Ru Paul's Drag Race UK Season 6) and more, as they deliver some fierce lip-syncs, gag-worthy dance routines and pure drag perfection.
@ Forbidden Nights Brighton on Saturday 26th July 2025 and 17 other Saturdays
Did someone order a group of sexy men? Forbidden Nights' Male Strip Show in Brighton did. Catch the hot talents that graced our screens on Britain's Got Talent in action, followed by an afterparty at Pryzm.
Grab tickets from £35 per person and get ready to experience a performance that'll leave you breathless. It's the perfect activity to do this winter with your girl gang, or even for a hen. If you fancy getting a front row seat to all the action (literally), it's just a tenner more.
So the wind may be icy and the days rainy, but these restaurants are letting you soak in the Brighton scenery while staying toasty. Whether you're after European fare on the pier, seafood by the beach or small plates as you watch the bustling streets below, you'll find them all here.
A universally accepted way to survive winter is the roast and, lucky for you, this town is filled to the brim with watering holes that are gravy pros. We've picked the best pubs for a delicious dinner, from the cosiest sofas and open fireplaces to fluffy potatoes and vegetarian delights.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Brighton on Various dates from Tuesday 15th July 2025
When it comes to Brighton things to do this winter, Alcotraz: Cell Block One-Three is blowing it out of the water. Don an orange jumpsuit before smuggling in contraband liquor past the warden, then sip clandestine cocktails shaken up by the guards.
If you're planning on welcoming in the new year with the meat-free month of Veganuary, then fear not, as there are loads of restaurants around town that'll cater to all your needs. Just see for yourself with our guide to the best plant-based eateries.
Cuffing season is upon us, so if you're looking to meet that special someone? Head over to one of SpeedDater's events where you'll go on between eight to twelve mini-dates. Afterwards, you'll be able to log on to an online portal where you'll be able to see who matched with you back, and arrange date number two.
Escape the rain - quite literally - at these fantastic underground hangouts. Choose between stylish speakeasies, retro bunkers or immersive basement bars concealed around the town, then spend an evening evading the chilly weather, sipping on illicit concoctions.
Ohso Social is the seafront bar and restaurant that's got igloos to keep you cosy come the winter. These heated spaces are totally private, let you pick your own music, and allow you to bask in the views without catching a chill. Plus, they offer cracking cocktails and a two or three-course festive menu featuring roast turkey, salmon en croute and much more.
On the hunt for fun things to do in Brighton this winter? Grab your puffer and check out one of these venues around town, hosting a range of singer-songwriters, swing bands and jazz performances. Plus, most are held in a top-notch pub, so there's bound to be a pint in it for you.
@ YO! Brighton on Sunday 20th July 2025 and 21 other Sundays
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make sushi? Well, now's your chance. All you have to do is enrol in YO! Sushi School from £24.95 per person and you'll become a maki master in no time.
Brush up on your knife cutting skills as you're guided by an expert and prepare your very own salmon sashimi and California rolls. While you're crafting, you can delight in delicious gyozas and edamame, washed down by a soft drink, Asahi or prosecco.
Is there a better way to warm the cockles than with a booze-fuelled brunch? We thought not. Whether you fancy sinking your teeth into unlimited slices of pizza or enjoying a drag event touting free-flowing bubbles, we've made a list of the top shindigs in town.
Boasting 1920s charm and vintage scenes, Proud Cabaret is a swanky spot indeed. Head inside this St George's Road hotspot for one of the best winter activities in Brighton, where you'll be met with plush VIP booths, tasty concoctions, bottomless brunches and top-notch burlesque entertainment.
Make sure you warm up your vocal cords for this one, as keeping you warm through winter is Lucky Voice, conveniently placed near The Lanes and the beachfront. You'll have a choice of over 12,000 songs here, press 'Thirsty' buttons when you need room service and revel in themed tipples like the rum-based Crazy In Love. There are even bottomless brunches to properly warm the cockles.
Discounts available on certain events
While a hot water bottle might be the most appealing thing in the world, this hilarious show is lifting our spirits even during a Brighton winter. Taking place every Saturday, The Secret Comedy Club includes performances from well-known names and up-and-coming talent.
Searching for things to do in Brighton this December? You're in luck, as Be At One absolutely loves Christmas concoctions. Head inside to enjoy a special menu of seasonal cocktails made by expert mixologists, which makes it the perfect place to warm up after a bracing walk down the beach.
Located in The Lanes, Coppa Club is a stylish restaurant and bar that's home to a cosy winter igloo for private dining. Book this space for warm blankets, lush foliage and fairy lights, fitting groups of up to eight people at a time.
They offer two or three-course set menus ranging from £33 to £42 per person - think hot salmon bruschetta with whipped ricotta, roast turkey breast and more, with prosecco or signature cocktails to wash it all down.
