Discover the secrets tucked away in Brighton’s historic Lanes on this captivating guided tour. Dive into stories of smugglers, fishermen’s cottages, and local legends—all with a friendly, expert guide at your side. Keep reading to uncover why this walking adventure is a must-do in Brighton’s vibrant seaside town.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
about 1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking; suitable for most fitness levels
Wildlife
History
The Lanes date back to the 16th century, originally serving as fishing wharves and smugglers’ hideouts, giving the streets their mysterious aura.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the historic facades and maintain Brighton’s unique character amid modern development.
Only in Brighton!
Discover the secrets tucked away in Brighton’s historic Lanes on this captivating guided tour. Dive into stories of smugglers, fishermen’s cottages, and local legends—all with a friendly, expert guide at your side. Keep reading to uncover why this walking adventure is a must-do in Brighton’s vibrant seaside town.
Only in Brighton! is a Brighton and Hove–based walking tour company offering immersive, 90-minute guided experiences that showcase the city's history, culture and local colour. The business runs three signature tours: Secrets of the Lanes Tour (led by a qualified Blue Badge Tourist Guide), Piers & Queers Tour (a small-group exploration of over 200 years of LGBTQ history), and the Only in Brighton Walking Tour (an intimate guide-led introduction to Brighton's quirky charm and Regency architecture).
Guides at Only in Brighton! use specialist local knowledge to reveal hidden lanes, smuggler stories, and lives of notable figures such as Anne Lister and Oscar Wilde. Tours combine factual historical commentary with accessible storytelling suitable for visitors and residents. Group sizes are intentionally small on select tours to maintain an intimate, conversational experience. The company emphasises accuracy by featuring qualified guides and well-researched narratives drawn from local archives, oral histories and public records. Practical details are straightforward: each tour runs for approximately 90 minutes in central Brighton and Hove, with routes designed for walking and frequent stops for commentary.
Only in Brighton! positions itself as a reliable option for travellers seeking context-rich, on-foot exploration of the city. The focus on qualified guides, small-group formats, and subject-specific tours—such as LGBTQ history and the historic Lanes—supports memorable, educational visits that connect participants with Brighton’s distinctive past and present. Tour themes include smuggling tales, Regency dandies, seaside culture, modern activism, and architectural highlights, reflecting the diversity of Brighton and Hove's heritage and local hidden gems today.
Tours Offered
3
Three signature walking tours
Tour Length
90 minutes
Approximately 90 minutes per tour
Group Size
Small groups
Intimate, conversational experiences
Qualified Guides
Blue Badge & qualified
Led by Blue Badge and qualified guides
Reserve a spot on a 90‑minute guided tour to explore Brighton's Lanes, pier history, and queer heritage.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The Lanes are cobbled and narrow, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable during the 90-minute walk.
Bring an umbrella
Weather in Brighton can change quickly; an umbrella ensures you're prepared for unexpected showers.
Arrive early for the tour
Getting there a few minutes before start time guarantees a prompt start and better experience.
Bring a notebook or camera
Capture the charming streets and memorable stories along the way to enhance your experience afterward.
Comfortable walking shoes
A comfortable pair of shoes is vital for navigating Brighton’s cobbled streets comfortably.
Weather-appropriate clothing
Bring layers or rain gear suited to the season for a comfortable experience regardless of conditions.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Camera or smartphone
Capture the picturesque streets and historic facades along the way.
Notebook or journal
Jot down interesting stories or thoughts inspired by your walk through Brighton’s hidden corners.