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 katie kirwan
Last updated on 30th December 2025
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Fabulous Brunch Events Brighton know how to party this winter, thanks to their Buff Bingo Bottomless Brunch events. Whatever you fancy, you're in for plenty of raucous, high-energy fun.
Meet some of the UK's leading queens, and lap up a Boy Toy ™ buff butler service. There are bingo games, a jackpot prize of up to £200, and DJs, all hosted by the fabulous Lydia La Scabies.
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.
@ Forbidden Nights Brighton on Saturday 25th April 2026 and 11 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 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.
DRAGBUS Brighton turns the city's streets into a rolling party. Perfect for hen parties, birthdays, work events or just a night out with friends, the legendary vintage bus combines sightseeing with outrageous drag performances, music, games and sing-alongs. Cruising past iconic Brighton landmarks like the Palace Pier and The Lanes, you'll be guided by glamorous queens whose charisma, humour and festive sparkle make the tour an unforgettable experience.
After the two-hour city tour, the party continues at Affinity Bar with a fabulous drag show from 5pm to 6pm. Tickets include welcome glasses of prosecco both on the bus and at the bar, while further drinks can be pre-ordered for the journey.
@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Brighton on Various dates from Thursday 5th February 2026
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.
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.
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.
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 - think hot salmon bruschetta with whipped ricotta, roast turkey breast and more, with prosecco or signature cocktails to wash it all down.
Looking for a way to get outdoors this winter? Then check out these brilliant walks all over the city and its surrounding areas. We've rounded up the most beautiful routes, varying in length and difficulty.
From the Brighton coastal path to Falmer Hiking Loop and Hanover to Kemptown, check out these strolls for something free to do.
Brighton's arcade scene is a mix of retro charm and modern thrills, ideal for chasing away the winter blues. From flashing lights and coin pushers to VR experiences and racing simulators, the city's arcades offer hours of entertainment for all ages. The World's End on London Road is a multi-level haven for gamers, featuring retro consoles, RC racing, table tennis, and classic arcade machines - a quirky, fun-packed destination for a date or a night out.
Meanwhile, the iconic Palace of Fun and The Dome at Brighton Palace Pier bring the full seaside nostalgia, with whirling slot machines, claw games, air hockey and interactive high-tech experiences. Down at Players on Kings Road, you'll find a bright, laid-back arcade with coin pushers, racing games, axe-throwing and beer pong, perfect for families or casual gamers.
Cheese fondue is the ultimate comfort food for cold evenings, and you'll find plenty in Brighton. At Zizzi, you can tuck into a sharing board loaded with molten cheesy goodness, mozzarella arancini, courgetti fritti, smoky tomato dips and wild garlic aioli, all served alongside crowd-pleasing Italian mains and indulgent desserts like tiramisu or chocolate melts.
For a more traditional take, Thewitchez offers cheese fondue all year round, complete with fresh or pickled vegetables, bread for dipping, and even a glass of wine each - an authentic, pre-ordered treat that's perfect for a cosy date or catch-up with friends.
Brighton's culinary scene is always evolving, and there are plenty of new restaurants to check out this season. We've rounded up all the best new venues opening up across the town, so be sure to check some out.
Our top picks include Thai eatery Namo, indulgent Indian Roti King and steak titans Flat Iron, alongside many others.
