11 Best Nightclubs in Brighton: Must-Visit Party Venues

Brighton stands out as one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for nightlife. The city offers something for everyone, from seafront venues to underground dance floors. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the weekend, you’ll find plenty of options to explore after dark.

This guide covers the top 11 nightclubs in Brighton, helping you choose the best spots for your night out. You’ll discover venues that range from large party spaces to intimate settings with live entertainment. Each club brings its own style of music, atmosphere, and crowd to the table.

The article also includes practical information about Brighton’s nightlife culture and tips to help you stay safe whilst enjoying your evening. You’ll learn what makes each venue special and what you can expect when you visit.

1) Volks Club

Volks Club sits right on Brighton seafront and has been a key part of the city’s underground music scene for over 25 years. You’ll find it at 3 The Colonnade on Madeira Drive, where it offers two separate rooms for clubbing without any pretence. The venue has built its reputation on bringing new and underground club nights to Brighton.

When you visit, you can expect a proper party atmosphere focused on the music rather than fancy décor. During the day, there’s a terrace and café where you can grab drinks with beach views. The club transforms at night into a live music venue and nightclub that attracts people who care about quality DJ sets and underground sounds.

The two-room setup gives you options depending on what music you’re after on any given night. You won’t find bottle service or velvet ropes here. It’s straightforward clubbing where the focus stays on the dance floor and the music selection.

The location opposite the beach makes it easy to find and gives you somewhere to cool off between sets. If you’re looking for a genuine club experience in Brighton rather than somewhere pretentious, Volks Club delivers what it promises.

⭐Rating: 4.3 (287 reviews)
📍Location: 3 Madeira Dr, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1PS, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 682828
🌐Website: Volks Club Website

2) Patterns, Brighton

Patterns sits right across from Brighton Pier on the seafront, giving you proper views of the coast. The venue opened in 2015 and has become a key spot for underground club culture and live music in Brighton. You’ll find two floors here plus a terrace, which means there’s plenty of space to explore.

The basement hosts club nights whilst the ground floor serves as a bar and event space. You can catch DJ sets and live bands throughout the week, with the venue staying open until 4am on Fridays and Saturdays. The Friday night deal is worth knowing about—every pizza on their menu costs just £5.

The cocktail bar upstairs gives you a breather from the dance floor when you need it. The basement gets packed during club nights, so you’ll be in the thick of it down there. The venue books a mix of underground acts and more established names, making it a solid choice whether you’re into techno, house, or live indie bands.

You can book tables in the ground floor bar area on weekends if you want a guaranteed spot. The venue also handles private hire for bigger events, though most visitors come for the regular club nights and gigs.

⭐Rating: 4 (928 reviews)
📍Location: 10 Marine Parade, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1TL
📞Contact: +44 1273 894777
🌐Website: Patterns, Brighton Website

3) Casablanca Club

Casablanca Club has been a Brighton staple since 1979, making it the longest-running live music club in the city. When you walk in, you’ll find two distinct spaces that cater to different moods. One room features live bands whilst the other hosts DJs spinning records.

The music policy centres on soul, funk, disco and pop. You can expect a proper old-school club atmosphere where people actually dance rather than just stand around. The crowd tends to be a mix of ages, which makes sense given the club’s long history in Brighton.

The venue sits on Middle Street, right in the heart of the city centre. The setup is straightforward with the two rooms allowing you to switch between live performances and DJ sets throughout the night. It’s the kind of place where you can either watch bands play or get straight on the dance floor.

⭐Rating: 4.1 (384 reviews)
📍Location: 5 Middle St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1AL, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 321817
🌐Website: Casablanca Club Website

4) Platinum Lace Brighton

Platinum Lace Brighton brings a modern twist to the traditional gentlemen’s club scene. You’ll find it tucked between The Lanes and Brighton Pier on East Street, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city centre.

The club combines nightclub energy with adult entertainment, featuring professional dancers and regular DJ nights throughout the week. You can book a table or VIP booth if you want a more private experience, which works well for parties or special occasions.

The venue has a relaxed atmosphere despite its adult entertainment focus. The club welcomes both men and women, and the space feels more like a stylish nightclub than a typical strip club. You’ll notice they’ve put effort into creating a comfortable environment where you can enjoy drinks alongside the performances.

If you’re looking for something different from Brighton’s standard nightclub offering, this spot gives you that option. The combination of club culture and live entertainment sets it apart from other venues in the area.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (109 reviews)
📍Location: 76 East St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1NF
📞Contact: +44 1273 205206
🌐Website: Platinum Lace Brighton Website

5) Apocalypse Brighton

Apocalypse Brighton brings a distinct edge to the Kemptown nightlife scene. This club sits right on Marine Parade, giving it a seaside location that sets it apart from other venues in the city centre.

The venue attracts a crowd that wants something different from the mainstream club experience. You’ll find themed nights and alternative music that cater to specific tastes rather than playing it safe with commercial hits. The atmosphere leans towards the unconventional, which is exactly what regulars come here for.

The club operates on a more intimate scale compared to some of Brighton’s larger venues. This works in its favour, creating a tight-knit vibe where you’re more likely to connect with fellow clubbers. The space feels authentic rather than polished, which suits the alternative scene it serves.

If you’re into goth, rock, or industrial music nights, this is one of the few places in Brighton that consistently delivers. The themed events draw dedicated crowds who appreciate the niche programming.

⭐Rating: 4.4 (58 reviews)
📍Location: 8 Marine Parade, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1TA, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 7807 922026
🌐Website: Apocalypse Brighton Website

6) Haus Of Cabaret Brighton

You’ll find this venue tucked away in Kemptown, where a plush former ballroom has been transformed into one of Brighton’s most dazzling entertainment spaces. The retro supper club atmosphere hits you the moment you walk in, with glittering lights and vintage charm creating an atmosphere that feels special before the show even starts.

The entertainment here goes beyond typical nightclub fare. You can expect drag shows, burlesque performances, and themed cabaret acts that mix classic glamour with modern energy. The venue has been running shows since 2010, so the team knows how to put on a proper performance. The dance floor stays busy between acts, and the whole space feels designed for a proper night out rather than just drinks and music.

Your ticket options vary depending on what you’re after. You can grab general admission with entry and seating, or upgrade to packages that include cocktails and a two-course meal. The venue also doubles as a restaurant and wedding venue, which speaks to how versatile the space actually is.

The shows feature jaw-dropping circus acts, stunts, and internationally acclaimed performers. It’s worth noting that the shows include bright, flashing lights, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if that’s a concern for you.

⭐Rating: 4.4 (1,693 reviews)
📍Location: 83 St George’s Rd, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1EF
📞Contact: +44 1273 605789
🌐Website: Haus Of Cabaret Brighton Website

7) Concorde 2

Concorde 2 sits right on Madeira Drive with sea views that make it stand out from typical basement clubs. The venue holds about 600 people, which creates a lively atmosphere without feeling too packed. You’ll find high-tech lighting and sound systems that work well for both live music and club nights.

The venue doubles as both a nightclub and live music space. When you visit for concerts, the acoustics are solid and the stage setup gives decent views from most spots in the room. Club nights bring in different DJs and music styles throughout the week.

The beachfront location makes it easy to find and gives you options before or after your night out. You can access the venue directly from the seafront, which is handy if you’re coming from other parts of Brighton. The space itself has a modern feel with professional lighting that changes the mood depending on the event.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (1,589 reviews)
📍Location: 286A Madeira Dr, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1EN, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Concorde 2 Website

8) The Forge Comedy Club

The Forge Comedy Club offers a different kind of night out in Brighton if you’re looking for laughs instead of dancing. Located on Cheapside in the heart of Brighton, this comedy venue hosts shows nearly every week with performances running from early evening through to late night. You’ll find events scheduled throughout the week, with most shows starting around 8:00 pm and running for about two hours.

The club brings in a rotating lineup of comedians, so you can visit multiple times and catch different acts. Shows typically run from Thursday through Sunday, with occasional weekday performances as well. The atmosphere feels intimate and welcoming, making it easy to settle in for an evening of entertainment.

If you’re planning a visit, you’ll want to book tickets in advance through their website since popular shows can sell out. The venue schedules both shorter one-hour performances and longer two-and-a-half-hour shows, giving you options depending on your evening plans. You can reach them by phone if you have questions about upcoming events or ticket availability.

⭐Rating: 4.9 (1,147 reviews)
📍Location: 30 Cheapside, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4GD
📞Contact: +44 7743 070797
🌐Website: The Forge Comedy Club Website

9) Revenge

Revenge has been Brighton’s biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub since 1991, and it’s still going strong as the city’s most popular queer venue. You’ll find it right on Old Steine in Kemptown, spread across three floors with a rooftop terrace that gives you panoramic views of the seafront. The space is massive, so you won’t feel cramped even on busy nights.

The club positions itself as a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. You can expect a mix of drag shows, themed nights, and DJ sets that keep the dance floor packed. The attached R-Bar is open seven days a week if you want a more relaxed vibe before hitting the main club.

If you’re after a premium experience, Revenge offers seven VIP booths with bottle service. These book up quickly, especially during Pride season when the venue becomes one of the main hubs for celebrations. The club attracts a diverse crowd, though they’ve recently launched “Out Out!”, a 25+ night for those who prefer a slightly more mature atmosphere.

⭐Rating: 4 (346 reviews)
📍Location: 32-34 Old Steine, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1EL, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 1273 606064
🌐Website: Revenge Website

10) Revolution Brighton

Revolution Brighton sits on West Street in the heart of Brighton’s nightlife scene. The venue works as both a restaurant and bar during the day before shifting into party mode at night. You’ll find a lively crowd here most evenings, especially when the nightly happy hours kick in.

The bar offers a global menu of comfort food classics if you fancy a bite before dancing. The drinks selection spans cocktails, wines, and spirits with various promotions throughout the week. The space has an individually styled interior that sets it apart from standard chain venues.

You can expect a mix of music and entertainment across different nights of the week. The atmosphere gets busier as the evening progresses, with the venue attracting a diverse crowd. The location makes it easy to hop between other West Street venues if you’re planning a bigger night out.

The bar stays open late, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the drinks and atmosphere. Staff keep the energy going throughout the night with regular events and themed evenings.

⭐Rating: 4.2 (2,420 reviews)
📍Location: 77 West St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2RA
📞Contact: +44 1273 806090
🌐Website: Revolution Brighton Website

11) Fat Poppadaddys

Fat Poppadaddys sits in Pool Valley, right in the heart of Brighton’s nightlife scene. The club has built a reputation for its lively atmosphere and commitment to keeping the dance floor packed. When you step inside, you’ll find a space that focuses on delivering a proper night out without unnecessary frills.

The venue caters to those who want a straightforward clubbing experience with quality music and a welcoming vibe. You’ll encounter a crowd that’s there for the same reason you are—to dance and enjoy the night. The club’s location makes it easy to reach from other Brighton hotspots, so you can easily include it in your night out plans.

Fat Poppadaddys has earned positive feedback from visitors who appreciate its unpretentious approach to nightlife. The staff work to maintain a friendly environment where you can let loose and enjoy yourself. The club’s setup allows for good movement between areas, so you won’t feel cramped even when it gets busy.

⭐Rating: 5 (4 reviews)
📍Location: 13 Pool Valley, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1NJ, United Kingdom
🌐Website: Fat Poppadaddys Website

Nightlife Culture in Brighton

Brighton’s club scene reflects decades of musical innovation and inclusive attitudes, with venues ranging from historic dance halls to modern superclubs. The city maintains relaxed dress codes compared to London, though standards vary by venue and event type.

History of Clubbing in Brighton

Brighton established itself as a nightlife destination in the 1960s when mods and rockers clashed on its beaches, bringing youth culture to the forefront. The city’s club scene expanded significantly in the 1980s and 1990s with the rise of acid house and rave culture.

Many venues occupy converted spaces along the seafront and in the historic Lanes district. The Kingswest Centre, now home to several clubs, has been a cornerstone of Brighton’s nightlife for years.

Brighton’s reputation as an LGBTQ+ friendly city shaped its club culture considerably. This openness attracted diverse crowds and created an environment where alternative music and subcultures could flourish without mainstream restrictions.

Music Genres and Resident DJs

You’ll find electronic dance music dominates Brighton’s club scene, with house and techno being particularly prominent. Many venues host international DJs alongside local talent, creating a mix of styles throughout the week.

Popular music genres include:

• House and deep house
• Techno and tech house
• Drum and bass
• Pop and chart hits at student nights
• Indie and alternative rock

Student nights typically feature mainstream pop and throwback tracks from the 1990s and 2000s. Venues like Popworld specialise in nostalgic pop hits that appeal to younger crowds.

Weekend bookings often showcase guest DJs from London and abroad. Smaller venues focus on underground sounds and emerging artists, whilst larger clubs book established names for headline events.

Dress Codes and Entry Requirements

Most Brighton clubs operate smart-casual policies rather than strict formal requirements. You can typically wear trainers, jeans, and casual tops without issue at the majority of venues.

Some clubs enforce stricter standards for special events or themed nights. Check the venue’s website or social media before visiting to avoid disappointment at the door.

General entry guidelines:

• Avoid sportswear and heavily branded athletic clothing
• Smart trainers are usually acceptable
• Ripped or dirty clothing may be refused
• Themed events may have specific costume requirements

You’ll need valid photo identification showing you’re 18 or older. Acceptable ID includes a passport, driving licence, or PASS-accredited proof of age card.

Mid-week promotions often have reduced entry fees or free admission before certain times. Door prices increase after midnight at most venues, so arrive earlier to save money.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Night Out

Brighton’s nightlife offers incredible experiences, but staying safe requires planning your transport, understanding local rules, and making smart choices about alcohol consumption.

Transport and Late-Night Options

Brighton operates several night bus services that run until the early morning hours. The N1, N7, and N25 routes cover most popular nightlife areas and residential neighbourhoods. These buses typically run every 30 minutes between midnight and 5 AM on Friday and Saturday nights.

Taxis and rideshare services are readily available throughout the city centre. You’ll find official taxi ranks on East Street, West Street, and outside Brighton Station. Always use licensed taxis with visible identification numbers displayed on the vehicle.

If you’re staying locally, walking in groups along well-lit main roads is often the safest option. Stick to populated areas like North Street, St James’s Street, and the seafront when travelling on foot.

Book your return transport before heading out. Having a plan prevents you from making rushed decisions when you’re tired or intoxicated.

Local Regulations and Age Restrictions

The legal drinking age in the UK is 18 years old. Nightclubs in Brighton strictly enforce this requirement and will refuse entry to anyone without valid photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID include a passport, driving licence, or PASS-accredited proof of age card.

Most venues stop serving alcohol at 2 AM, though some clubs with extended licences serve until 3 AM or 4 AM. Door policies vary by venue, with some clubs maintaining dress codes that prohibit sportswear, trainers, or casual clothing.

Brighton & Hove City Council requires all licensed premises to operate Challenge 25 policies. This means staff will ask for ID from anyone who appears under 25 years old.

Responsible Drinking and Safety Advice

Pace your drinking by alternating alcoholic drinks with water or soft drinks. This helps you stay hydrated and maintain better judgement throughout the night. Never leave your drink unattended or accept beverages from strangers.

Keep your phone charged and carry emergency contact numbers. Store your valuables securely and only bring what you need for the evening. Consider using a small bag or secure pockets that stay close to your body.

Stay with your friends and establish a meeting point if anyone gets separated. Look out for each other and speak up if someone appears unwell or overly intoxicated. Most venues have trained staff who can assist if you need help.

Trust your instincts. If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself and seek assistance from venue staff or police officers.

Conclusion

Brighton’s nightclub scene offers something for every taste and mood. You can find everything from intimate basement venues to large dance floors that stay open until dawn. The city’s coastal location and diverse community create a unique atmosphere that makes nights out special.

If you’re planning a visit to Brighton to experience the nightlife, we offer serviced apartments and rental properties in prime locations throughout the city. Whether you want to be steps away from the clubs or prefer a quieter spot with easy access to the action, our properties provide the perfect base for your Brighton adventure. Contact us at info@jfpropertypartners.com, call +44 7457 427143, or visit our website to browse our available accommodations.

The clubs listed in this guide represent the best of what Brighton has to offer in 2026. From student-friendly spots with affordable entry to upscale venues with international DJs, you’ll find options that match your budget and music preferences. Visit our contact page to book your stay in one of our properties and experience Brighton’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brighton’s nightlife scene raises many questions about what to expect, from the overall quality of venues to specific requirements for entry. Here’s what you need to know about clubbing in this seaside city.

Does Brighton have a good nightlife?

Brighton has one of the best nightlife scenes in the UK. The city offers a wide range of clubs, bars, and late-night venues that cater to different music tastes and crowd preferences.

As a thriving seaside town and student city, Brighton has built a reputation for exceptional nightlife. You’ll find everything from intimate underground venues to large dance floors playing the latest hits. The city’s diverse community creates a welcoming atmosphere for all types of nightgoers.

What are the top-rated nightclubs in Brighton for a memorable night out?

Volks Club stands out as one of Brighton’s premier venues with its warehouse-style space and quality sound system. The club hosts renowned DJs and offers an authentic clubbing experience.

Patterns, Brighton delivers consistently excellent nights with its seafront location and strong electronic music programming. The venue attracts both local clubbers and tourists looking for quality house and techno events.

Casablanca Club offers a different experience with its themed nights and varied music policy. You’ll find everything from funk and soul to disco and house music across different events.

Where should I go for a VIP clubbing experience in Brighton?

Platinum Lace Brighton provides the most upscale clubbing experience in the city. The venue offers VIP table service, bottle packages, and a more sophisticated atmosphere than typical nightclubs.

You can book private booths at Platinum Lace for group celebrations or special occasions. The club’s dress code and entry standards create a more exclusive feel compared to other Brighton venues.

Are there any nightclubs in Brighton that are particularly good for dancing?

Patterns, Brighton features a spacious dance floor and excellent sound system that makes it ideal for serious dancers. The club’s focus on electronic music and quality DJs attracts people who come specifically to dance.

Volks Club also provides a great dancing environment with its large warehouse space. The venue’s layout gives you plenty of room to move, and the crowd typically comes ready to dance all night.

Apocalypse Brighton offers multiple rooms with different music styles, so you can find the right vibe for dancing. The club’s energetic atmosphere and varied music policy keep the dance floors busy throughout the night.

Which Brighton nightclubs have the best atmosphere for a group celebration?

Casablanca Club works well for group celebrations with its fun, relaxed atmosphere and varied music. The venue’s themed nights create a party environment that suits birthdays and special occasions.

Platinum Lace Brighton caters specifically to group bookings with its VIP service and table packages. You can reserve a private area for your group and enjoy dedicated service throughout the night.

Apocalypse Brighton handles large groups well with its multiple rooms and spacious layout. The venue’s friendly atmosphere and mainstream music policy make it accessible for groups with different tastes.

What are the entry requirements and dress codes for high-end nightclubs in Brighton?

Most high-end Brighton nightclubs require you to be 18 or over with valid photo ID. You should bring your passport, driving licence, or PASS card as proof of age.

Platinum Lace Brighton enforces a smart casual dress code at minimum. You should avoid sportswear, trainers, and overly casual clothing if you want guaranteed entry.

Entry fees typically range from £5 to £10 for most Brighton nightclubs, though prices increase for special events. Some venues offer cheaper entry if you arrive early or book advance tickets online.

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