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Tag: Brighton News

The latest LGBT news from Brighton and Hove. Brighton is famous for it’s friendly and accepting atmosphere. It is home to one of the largest LGBT communities in the UK.

  • Where is the nudist beach in Brighton?

    Where is the nudist beach in Brighton?

    Sussex’s coastal beauty is like a never-ending parade of stunning sights, guaranteed to keep your jaw dropping perpetually!

    Yet, for those craving a change of scenery that’s not just skin-deep, why not dare to bare it all on a nudist beach?

    Unleash your inner wild child and let the salty sea breeze work its magic, liberating you from clothed imprisonment.

    Thankfully, Brighton holds the crown for one of the UK’s top spots to strip down and set your inhibitions free and it’s also home of the gayest place in the UK.

    Among the fearless few who dare to disrobe and defy the Great British weather, Black Rock Naturist Beach in Brighton proudly claims its spot on the prestigious list. Joining this daring destination are other alluring locations in Kent, Devon, Scotland, and Dorset, where the brave and the bare mingle with the elements!

    Just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Brighton lies a nudist beach that breaks all the norms of typical naturist hideaways. While many au naturel spots remain hidden gems, lacking amenities and creature comforts, this 200-yard stretch at the city’s eastern end is a revelation. Conveniently close to the marina, you won’t have to embark on an expedition to find it!

    Backed by a promenade and a small grassy area, this coastal gem ensures you won’t have to endure pebbly discomfort throughout your sunbathing adventures. Ah, the bliss of it all!

    Now, it wouldn’t be a truly iconic spot without some controversy, and this beach had its fair share when it debuted in the 1980s. But hey, times have changed, and today, it proudly stands as one of the most beloved naturist havens in all of Britain.

    Do more men or women go?

    Is there a naked beach in Brighton?
    CREDIT: Depositphotos

    Admittedly, there’s been a bit of a tiff over gender balance at times, with male visitors seemingly claiming the limelight. Nevertheless, the general consensus is that everyone is warmly embraced, and all are made to feel right at home. So, whether you’re a seasoned nudist or a first-time skinny-dipper, this beach beckons with open arms and a breathtaking view of the sea and the city combined!

    What do the locals think?

    Well, well, well, it seems like the reviews on TripAdvisor for this nudist beach are quite the mixed bag! Among the range of experiences, we stumbled upon one rather amusing tale from a visitor.

    According to this bold adventurer, he and his wife decided to give this naturist beach a shot. Things started off rather peacefully, with an empty beach providing a seemingly serene setting. However, the peace was short-lived as soon as the wife decided to embrace her inner free spirit and shed her clothes. Within a mere 10 minutes, she became the centre of attention, drawing the gaze of several intrigued gents.

    Now, while the husband might not have been too thrilled about the surplus of attention his better half received, he couldn’t deny the fact that the day turned out to be quite an eventful one. In his words, it evolved into a “good day on the beach playing with the guys.”

    Well, it just goes to show that this nudist beach certainly has the power to make memories and create some unforgettable experiences for its visitors!

    Getting loose with Lucy

    Ah, Lucy from Reigate seems to have embraced the liberating allure of the nudist beach with absolute grace and poise. Her candid account reveals a journey of courage and self-discovery in this unique environment.

    Once she took that bold step to strike up conversations with fellow naturists, all inhibitions seemed to melt away. Lucy felt a profound sense of freedom, unburdened by the fear of judgment. It’s a testament to the welcoming atmosphere that nudist communities can foster.

    Indeed, she noticed that the male presence was quite prominent, whether they were solo visitors, couples, or in groups. However, Lucy also appreciated the diverse mix of attendees, including single couples and groups of women. The feeling of ease was reinforced by seeing these diverse configurations, and she comfortably engaged in conversations, sunbathing, and swimming with them.

    In addition to the warm social ambience, Lucy appreciated the efforts put into maintaining the beach’s cleanliness and accessibility. Whether one arrives by train, bus, or car, the journey to this naturist haven is smooth and straightforward.

    Lucy’s experience beautifully captures the essence of this nudist beach: a place of acceptance, relaxation, and freedom where visitors can shed more than just their clothes—they can let go of societal expectations and simply be themselves.

    It appears that the nudist beach’s male-dominated reputation is echoed by several other reviewers as well. However, amidst this fact, a first-time naturist visitor from London had an exceptional time at the beach.

    Brighton is Immersive and inclusive

    For this adventurous couple, the trip was about seeking a tranquil day by the sea, opting for a lovely picnic and some relaxation. It was also their very first foray into the world of naturist beaches.

    Their experience turned out to be nothing short of fantastically liberating. The couple found themselves in the company of like-minded individuals who embraced their nakedness with ease. However, what sets this beach apart is the non-intrusive nature of nudism. While many may choose to bare it all, the beach creates an atmosphere where everyone is welcome, regardless of whether they decide to stay clothed or disrobed.

    Such an inclusive environment allowed the couple to truly immerse themselves in the moment, free from any pressure or judgment. This way, they could truly enjoy the experience and let their day unfold naturally, just like the sea waves lapping at the shore.

    Ultimately, Brighton’s naturist beach proved to be a place where visitors could find freedom, acceptance, and the power to choose how they want to experience it—truly a gem among the coastal beauty of Sussex!

  • The UK is the 9th gay-friendliest place in the world

    The UK is the 9th gay-friendliest place in the world

    The UK has been ranked 9th in the Spartacus Gay Travel Index 2023, making it one of the top 10 best places in the world for LGBT+ travel.

    The index, which is published annually by Spartacus International Gay Guide, ranks countries based on a number of factors, including legal protections for LGBT+ people, the availability of LGBT+-friendly services and facilities, and the level of LGBT+ acceptance in society.

    Malta emerged as the indisputable champion for the first time during the EuroPride held in September 2023, reaffirming its selection as the ideal host nation.

    Canada and Switzerland shared the second position, with Switzerland experiencing a significant increase in its score from seven to twelve points due to its adoption of equal marriage and a liberalized gender self-identification law for individuals aged 16 years and above.

    Israel and Vietnam also made notable progress by outlawing ‘conversion therapy’, a harmful and discredited practice. To date, only 23 nations have prohibited this outdated treatment. Meanwhile, the Conservative government of the United Kingdom is slow to act on its commitment to ban conversion therapy across the country.

    This year, the United Kingdom maintained its previous score and secured a joint ninth position along with Germany, Iceland, and Spain.

    The UK scored highly in all of these areas, with particular praise for its legal protections for LGBT+ people and its vibrant LGBT+ scene.

    The UK is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGBT+ rights. Same-sex marriage has been legal in the UK since 2014, and there are no laws against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity.

    The UK also has a thriving LGBT+ scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and other venues catering to LGBT+ people. London is particularly known for its vibrant LGBT+ nightlife, and the city hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.

    The Spartacus Gay Travel Index is a valuable resource for LGBT+ travelers, and the UK’s high ranking is a testament to its welcoming and inclusive environment.

    Here are some of the best places to visit in the UK for LGBT+ travelers:

    • London: London is one of the most LGBT+-friendly cities in the world, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and other venues catering to LGBT+ people. The city also hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.
    • Brighton: Brighton is another popular LGBT+ destination in the UK. The city has a large LGBT+ population and a thriving LGBT+ scene. It was recently crowned the gayest place in the UK.
    • Manchester: Manchester is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a strong LGBT+ community. The city has a number of LGBT+-friendly bars, clubs, and other venues.
    • Edinburgh: Edinburgh is a historic city with a thriving LGBT+ scene. The city hosts a number of annual LGBT+ Pride events.
    • Cardiff: Cardiff is the capital of Wales and a popular LGBT+ destination. The city has a number of LGBT+-friendly bars, clubs, and other venues.

    Where is the worst place in the world for gay people to visit?

    Unfortunately, there are still many places in the world where the LGBTQ+ community faces discrimination, persecution, and limited rights. Some of the countries with the worst gay rights records include:

    1. Chechnya: The Chechen Republic, a federal subject of Russia, has been accused of conducting a violent campaign against gay men, including torture and extrajudicial killings.
    2. Saudi Arabia: Homosexuality is illegal in Saudi Arabia and can be punished with imprisonment, fines, or even death.
    3. Iran: Same-sex activity is illegal in Iran and can be punishable by death. LGBTQ+ individuals in Iran also face discrimination and harassment.
    4. Uganda: Homosexuality is illegal in Uganda and can be punished with life imprisonment. LGBTQ+ individuals in Uganda face harassment, discrimination, and violence.
    5. Nigeria: Same-sex relationships are illegal in Nigeria and can be punished with imprisonment, fines, or even death. LGBTQ+ individuals in Nigeria face discrimination, harassment, and violence.
  • Yep, Brighton is the gayest place in the UK

    Yep, Brighton is the gayest place in the UK

    According to the census, individuals residing in the Essex district were found to be six times less inclined towards identifying as gay as compared to those residing in the East Sussex city.

    Where is the gay capital of England?

    Brighton and Hove, long considered the unofficial gay capital of England, can now proudly wear the official crown. According to the 2021 census, one in 10 people aged over 16 in the city identified themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual or “other sexual orientation”.

    Around 10% of Brighton’s overall population identifies as gay, lesbian or bisexual.

    This figure matches the estimates made decades ago based on the research of Alfred Kinsey, a US professor from the 1940s who argued that homosexuality was far more prevalent than official sources acknowledged.

    Gay culture in Brighton

    Culture is likely to play a significant role in the differing levels of LGB+ identification between Rochford and Brighton. Unlike Rochford, Brighton has a long-standing history of pioneering gay rights, from its gay bars and clubs to its annual Pride festival. The city recently bid farewell to George Montague, a 98-year-old gay rights campaigner who had been fighting for decades. Brighton and Hove City Council has a range of initiatives to support the LGBT+ community, including an LGBT workers’ forum, “my pronouns” campaign, and an LGBT helpline.

    According to gay rights campaigner Peter Tatchell, Brighton’s vibrant LGBT+ community, extensive support organizations, and liberal public attitudes make it an attractive place for LGBT+ individuals to live. People feel safe and comfortable in Brighton, and they feel more able to be out and visible. However, Tatchell acknowledges that despite the generally gay-friendly atmosphere, there is still a problem with gay-bashing attacks. He said, ““Brighton has a huge amount of LGBT+ venues and community support organisations that makes it a very very attractive place for LGBT+ people to live,

    “Public attitudes are more liberal than other parts of Britain so people feel safe and comfortable. They also feel more able to be out and visible. But this also makes them targets. Despite the generally more gay-friendly atmosphere, there is still a problem with gay-bashing attacks.”

    Paul Kemp, managing director of Brighton and Hove Pride, said that the city has always been a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals who seek a community of like-minded spirits. Many LGBTQ+ individuals come to Brighton to study at the university and decide to stay due to its supportive and inclusive environment.

  • Brighton Pride set to feature Steps, Black Eyed Peas and Mel C

    Brighton Pride 2023 is set to feature the Black Eyed Peas and Steps as headliners for the festival, with performances scheduled for August 5 and 6.

    Fans are eagerly anticipating the festival, one of the UK’s largest pride events, which will also feature performances by Zara Larsson, Jax Jones, and Melanie C.

    In the past, the event has featured other gay icons like Britney Spears, Kylie Minogue, Grace Jones, and Dua Lipa. The parade, which will take place on August 5, will have the theme “Love, Protest and Unity” and the additional challenge, “Dare to be different.”

    Tickets are available on the official website, with prices starting at £28.50 per day for Saturday or Sunday, and £48.50 for the entire weekend.

    The festival has also introduced a low-income ticket scheme to be mindful of the cost of living crisis.

    When is Brighton Pride 2023?

    Brighton Pride 2023 will take place from 4 August to 7 August. The parade through the city will take place on Saturday 5 August at 11am, with a route travelling from the seafront through the city centre up to Preston Park, where the festival takes place.

    Where can I get tickets for Brighton Pride?

    You can get tickets for Brighton Pride 2023 on the official Brighton Pride website. Ticket prices start at £28.50 per day for Saturday or Sunday, and £48.50 for the whole weekend. The website also offers a low-income ticket scheme for those who need it.

  • 6 awesome UK trans prides that are taking place in 2022 you have to know about

    6 awesome UK trans prides that are taking place in 2022 you have to know about

    Specific transgender pride events are on the rise in the UK for our transgender siblings to show off their pride and be centred within their own events.

    Here are the top six transgender pride you have to know about that are happening in 2022 right here in the UK.

    Less than a decade ago there was no specific transgender pride events in the UK, now in 2022, there are over half a dozen, from Northern Ireland to Brighton. Our partner site, The Pride Shop has been keeping track of transgender prides in the UK.

    Here are some of the transgender prides that are happening in July and beyond.

    Where are the biggest trans pride events in the UK?

    First on the list is Brighton’s Trans Pride which takes place on the 16th of July 2022, this is probably the most famous of the transgender prides in the UK and one of the longest-running. Brighton’s transgender pride has been running since 2013. It is a grass-roots, community-led organisation staffed entirely by unpaid volunteers

    From one of the oldest events to one of the newest, Cornwall Pride in Newquay this year was dedicated to transgender people. It took place on the 14th of May 2022.

    When is trans pride in the UK
    Trans prides happen all across the UK. They usually take place between March and July.

    Trans Pride London is set to take place this year on the 9th of July, a week after Pride In London.

    Trans Pride Southwest is an annual event which takes place in Bristol. Places are still being put together for its 2022 event. Its first event took place in 2019. During the pandemic, it ran a number of online and limited in-person events.

    If you live in Northern Ireland you’ll be happy to know that there is usually Trans Pride in Belfast, however, a date is yet to be announced. Its first pride was marched in 2018. Unfortunately due to Covid-19, the last two events had to be cancelled. it is hoped that an event will take place in 2022.

    There is a transgender pride in Scotland, however, it’s already had its march. In May a pride event took place in Paisley. Each year the Pride takes place in a different city in Scotland, in 2018 it was in Edinburgh, in 2019 it was in Dundee.

    So why does Trans Pride exist in the UK?

    As Brighton’s trans pride puts it, “Our aim is to inspire all trans, intersex, gender variant and queer people to help make a real difference by celebrating trans lives and gender diversity. We aim to educate and eliminate discrimination by promoting equality and diversity through visibility, while also celebrating our unique history,”

  • Yet another Brighton LGBT bar falls victim to 2020. “Terrible loss” and for the community

    Yet another Brighton LGBT bar falls victim to 2020. “Terrible loss” and for the community

    2020 has turned out to be a truly unsustainable year for so many industries, but LGBT+ venues are getting a real battering right now, thanks to the tier system, uncertainty surrounding lockdowns and the controversial 10 PM curfew enacted by the government.

    Bar Broadway in Brighton has announced that it is closing and many former patrons and performers are mourning its loss, including Drag Queen Tanya Hyde who said the closure was a “terrible loss for Brighton and the scene”.

    The bar, which is relatively new on the Brighton gay scene, opening in 2014, had been an incredibly busy and distinct venue for the area.

    Brighton’s Gay Men’s Chorus, wrote, “All of us at Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus would like to express our deep sadness and regret on hearing the news that Bar Broadway has had to close its doors for the last time. Having spent many unforgettable nights there celebrating after our own shows, it will be a huge loss, not only to us, but to the whole community. We wish the management and staff all the best for the future and hope that this is only just the start of something new for them all.”

    Drag Queen Maria Gardner wrote, “Bar Broadway was far more than a bar to me. It was a place that gave me the opportunity to start my drag career, they comforted me through a tough breakup, they gave me space to heal and sing for so many likeminded Disney lovers, I hosted my first Fringe shows there, collab shows with Alfie Ordinary, MenTalkHealth and 2 hilarious birthday bashes plus I made some of my closest friends I could ever ask for in this space.”

    Earlier in the year, the iconic Legends fell into administration, but since the report was brought back into existence.

  • Is there a nudist beach in Brighton?

    Yes there is a nudist beach in Brighton and here’s where to find it

    Originally opened in 1979, Brighton’s nudist beach is one of the most popular and most accessible nudist beaches in the UK.

    And since it’s Brighton and involves public nudity, the beach is hugely popular with the gay community. Despite the fact that the beach itself is one of shingle and pebbles, it remains one of the UK’s busiest naturist spots.

    So be sure to bring flip-flops and a particularly comfortable towel if you’re planning on sunning your bits in Brighton.

    Where is Brighton’s Nudist Beach?

    if you’re wondering how to find it – if you’re looking at the Pier (out to sea) the beach is a little way up the beach to the left, towards Duke’s Mound.

    Is there cruising at Brighton’s nudist beach?

    So there you have it, there is a nudist beach in Brighton and it happens to be very popular with the LGBT+ community, but as our Travel Expert, Nick Baker warns, don’t expect that just because a beach is particularly popular with gay men, to expect there to be a lot of cruising. He told us,

    “Just remember that not all nudist beaches are gay beaches, and not all gay nudist beaches are ok with other “activities”. A nudist beach is not always an excuse to go dogging”.

    Being naked at a Nudist Beach in Brighton is not illegal, but you have to be careful about cruising.
    (C) BIGSTOCK

    Public nudity is generally not legal in England, except in certain specific circumstances. The laws around public nudity are complex, but as a general rule, it is illegal to expose one’s genitals, buttocks or breasts in public places where other people could see them. This includes on the street, in parks, on beaches, and in other public spaces.

    There are some exceptions, such as during events like the World Naked Bike Ride, where participants are allowed to cycle naked through the streets of some cities. There are also designated nudist beaches where nudity is permitted, although it is important to note that even on these beaches, sexual behaviour or lewd conduct is not allowed and may result in criminal charges.

    In summary, public nudity is generally not legal in England and those who do so may face criminal charges unless it falls under specific exceptions.

  • A second chance for iconic Brighton LGBT venue

    A second chance for iconic Brighton LGBT venue

    According to the Legend’s website, the iconic venue is getting a second chance after it announced its closure last month.

    Legends in Brighton is apparently hoping to welcome back new and old customers alike after seemingly being taken over by new management, according to a statement on the venue’s website.

    In April, it was reported that Legends had entered into voluntary liquidation and had announced that it had ceased trading, however, a new statement released on the company’s website states the hotel and bar is “under new management” and hopes to invite new and existing customers back again soon.

    The website also points to a brand new website which has very limited information on it.

    The venue is unlikely to be open to the public anytime soon, as the UK’s is under lockdown conditions in order to “flatten the curve” of the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Hardship for many of the UK’s gay venues

    Since the last week of March 2020, the UK’s LGBT+ bars and clubs were ordered to shut, along with many other “non-essential” businesses.

    The order also included the UK’s community of gay saunas.

    As it currently stands bars and clubs will not be allowed to open again for the foreseeable future, putting immense pressure onto the “gay scene”, which has already suffered a slew of closures in recent years due to ever-increasing rents in cities and generally falling footfall.

    On May the 10th the UK’s Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, laid out tentative plans to reopen parts of the UK’s economy. The hospitality industry, arguably the hardest hit by the Coronavirus pandemic, will be one of the last to be reopened.

    Some of the industry would be permitted to commence trading again on 4th July, but that was contingent on a number of factors, including keeping the number of new infections of COVID-19 down and the ability to maintain social distancing measures within the premises.

  • Iconic Brighton LGBT+ venue, Legends set to enter voluntary liquidation

    Iconic Brighton LGBT+ venue, Legends set to enter voluntary liquidation

    “The company has had to make the difficult decision to close with immediate effect”

    Legends in Brighton has instructed an insolvency firm to help wind down its business, a statement released today has said.

    Since the outbreak of coronavirus, thousands of businesses across the UK shuttered indefinitely with many now struggling to stay financially viable with no customers.

    The venue, which was a hotel, club, bar and restaurant on the Brighton seafront issued a short statement on its website, stating,

    “The company has had to make the difficult decision to close with immediate effect and a licensed firm of Insolvency Practitioners has been instructed to assist in placing the company into Creditors Voluntary Liquidation. Therefore, no further bookings can be made”.

    It also suggested that those who had pre-existing bookings should contact their credit card providers to check if they were eligible for a refund.

    The UK has been in lockdown since the end of March and the Government ordered that all bars, restaurants and clubs close, except where they could provide takeaway services.

    The closure of this legendary venue is yet another blow to the LGBT+ community which has seen the widespread of Pride events planned for this summer cancelled or postponed.

    Organisers of Brighton Pride responded to the news of the closure by saying that the venue, had been “sad news… such a big supporter of Pride and community fundraising in our city over the years”

    The company “sincerely apologised for the inconvenience” that was caused by its decision to close.

  • Where is the best nudist beach for gay guys in Europe?

    Where is the best nudist beach for gay guys in Europe?

    We can’t wait for summer.

    Yes, there are a number of great nudist beaches in the UK, but apparently, if you want to go to the best in Europe you’ll have to travel further afield.

    According to Globehunters the best nudist beach for gay friendliness is actually the incredible liberal country of Sweden.

    The travel experts point out that Agesta Beach in Sweden is the “best beach destination for the LGBT+ community” and it gives the country a magnificent 322 points on its LGBTQ+ Danger Index.

    Globehunter’s LGBT+ Danger Index score was taken from Asher & Lyric’s index of the safest and least safe countries for gay, bi, lesbian and trans travellers, with the highest scores indicating a safer country.

    Chilly willy?

    However, if you’re planning to head to Sweden’s premier nudist beach you might want to actually keep some clothes on as the Average summer temperature is just 15.7 degrees – that’s way to chilling for us to get our kit off.

    Actually, while you’re at it, have a read of our Editor’s one and only experience of a nudist beach here.

    For the best warmth, you’d have to travel transatlantic to either Austin, Texas’s Hippie Hollow or Jamaica’s Ocho Rios. However, Jamaica receives a dismal -98 points on the LGBT+ danger index according to Globehunters.

    And for the UK?

    wilhei / Pixabay

    The best nudist beach for the gay community in the UK is Brighton’s Naturist Beach – which has an average summer temperature just marginally better than Sweden – at 16.3 degrees.

  • Man jailed jailed for homophobic and racist abuse at Brighton Pride

    Man jailed jailed for homophobic and racist abuse at Brighton Pride

    A man who was racist and homophobic towards people heading to Brighton Pride has been jailed for more than four years.

    Ryan Brown was heading to Pride himself when he threatened to ‘knock a woman out’ and shouted racist and homophobic terms at train passengers.

    The incident happened shortly after 5pm on Saturday 5 August 2017.

    The 31-year-old from Crawley, West Sussex, resisted arrest in Brighton and had to be restrained by BTP officers.

    In his pocket he had a large number of small bags containing MDMA.

    He was found guilty of possessing class A drugs with intent to supply and causing fear of violence through racially charged and homophobic language.

    Brown was also sentenced at the same time for a separate matter which included affray, criminal damage, and assault with intent to resist arrest which he pleaded guilty to in December 2018.

    He was jailed for four years and six months at Hove Crown Court on Thursday 10 January.

    British Transport Police DC Imogen Sweeney said, “I would like to thank the victim in this case. She was subjected to a frightening ordeal by Brown, receiving homophobic abuse and witnessing racist abuse.

    “She has remained determined to pursue justice throughout this investigation and I have nothing but admiration and praise for her strength.

    “Brighton Pride celebrates diversity and equality, values that Brown clearly needs education in. I believe this sentence reflects the seriousness and particularly nasty nature of his offending on that day.”

     

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