Welcome to Sussex
There is a distinct sense of space that comes with living in Sussex, from the clear air of the South Downs to the open views across the English Channel.
It is a place where childhood feels exactly as it should – defined by the freedom of the hills, the energising coastal breeze and a genuine connection to the natural world.
At Brighton College, we are rooted in the heart of Sussex. On the edge of the South Downs National Park, a stone’s throw from the beach and surrounded by a wonderfully vibrant and welcoming city, this is the most fabulous place to call home. For those seeking space, serenity and a world-class education for their children, Sussex isn’t just a place to live – it’s a place to flourish.
From the bohemian energy of Brighton’s Lanes to the timeless charm of our medieval villages, Sussex offers a rich tapestry of experiences. We can help you explore the rolling hills, the rugged coastlines, and the vibrant communities that make our home city the happiest (and sunniest!) city in the UK.
Brighton
Voted the UK’s 'Happiest City' by Time Out magazine in 2026, Brighton offers the best of both worlds: the vibrancy of city life and the tranquillity of the coast. Brighton is a place defined by its vibrant energy and open-minded spirit, where seaside tradition meets modern creativity, offering families a life filled with independent culture and a community that celebrates individuality.
The Lanes
A labyrinth of independent spirit where historic flint-walled alleys meet artisan jewellers and the city's celebrated coffee houses. It is a neighbourhood defined by its creative character and a year-round celebration of culture.
The Cultural Calendar
From the world-renowned Brighton Festival to the vibrant Open Houses, the city acts as a living gallery. It offers an inclusive community spirit where art and performance are woven into the fabric of everyday life.
The Iconic Promenade
The seafront remains the city’s social hub, connecting the historic piers with modern beach-side life. It is a place for sunset strolls or fresh seafood by the shore, offering a sense of openness that defines the Brighton experience.
A City of Independence
As a ‘walkable city,’ Brighton allows pupils to navigate safely between the sea, the shops and the College. This accessibility grants children a rare sense of freedom as they grow, as the city becomes a familiar and manageable part of life at the College.
Hove
While Brighton brings the energy, Hove offers a sense of calm sophistication. Known for its broad, tree-lined avenues and grand Victorian villas, it is a favourite for families seeking a more measured pace of life and a permanent coastal retreat. Life here is centred around the expansive Hove Lawns and the quiet elegance of the seafront.
The Avenues
The Avenues are defined by their sense of openness and historic villas, offering quiet privacy and architectural permanence where grand architecture meets the serenity of the coast.
Hove Lawns
Life in Hove revolves around the iconic Hove Lawns – a vast stretch of green separating the town’s stunning Regency terraces from the pebbled shoreline of the English Channel. From beach-hut gatherings to morning dog walks and quiet evening stolls, it is the social heart of the community.
Calm Sophistication
Beyond the seafront, Hove is home to fabulous bistros, artisan bakeries, local bookshops and specialist wine merchants. From quiet morning coffees in tucked-away cafés to long weekend lunches in family-run restaurants, the lifestyle here is effortlessly chic, providing a village-like feel within the city.
Coastal Equilibrium
With green spaces like Hove Park and St Ann’s Well Gardens, alongside its own mainline station with direct connections to London and the South Coast, Hove offers a truly enviable balance. It is a location that manages to provide both coastal tranquillity and seamless convenience for the modern professional.
Ten Reasons
Voted the UK’s happiest, sunniest and most dog-friendly city, it is easy to see why so many families call Brighton & Hove home. From its vibrant energy to its restorative coastline, here are ten reasons to fall in love with ‘London by the Sea’.
One
The Clean Sea Air
From Sunday strolls to triathlons and marathons, the Brighton coast offers it all. There is nothing quite like the iconic pebble shoreline to clear the mind. The sea air and panoramic views at every turn are a daily luxury that refreshes both parents and children alike, with the water offering a unique sense of freedom – from summer dips to the bracing ritual of year-round sea swimming.
Two
A City of Endless Choice
Whether you’re seeking a relaxed evening at Soho House or a high-energy adventure along the seafront, you will never be short of choices in Brighton & Hove. From immersive escape rooms and glow-in-the-dark golf to the thrill of the zip wire, the city is a playground for all ages.
Three
A Culinary Destination
The Brighton & Hove food scene is a masterclass in variety. With an impressive list of Michelin-recommended restaurants and chic organic eateries, the city rivals the best of London. Yet, for those days when you crave something more grounded, nothing beats our world-famous fish and chips by the sea.
Four
A Cultural Powerhouse
Brighton & Hove is a city of constant inspiration. As home to the renowned Brighton Festival and the vibrant Fringe Festival, the cultural calendar is unparalleled. From the oldest cinema in Britain to a nationally celebrated comedy scene and thriving music venues, the city is a living gallery of performance and heritage.
Five
Countryside Meets Coast
Nestled within a UNESCO Biosphere, the city is a gateway to the South Downs National Park. From rolling hills to the biodiversity of the coast, this is a vibrant natural playground where children grow up active and curious, with an unparalleled connection to the great outdoors.
Six
High Street to Historic Lanes
The city centre is a maze of constant discovery. From the iconic high street names to the twisting, historic Lanes filled with vintage emporia and independent boutiques, Brighton & Hove offers a shopping experience like no other.
Seven
A Family-Focussed Community
Voted one of the friendliest cities in the UK, Brighton & Hove is a place defined by kindness and acceptance. It is a world-class environment for families, offering everything from the thrills of the Palace Pier and the historic Volk’s Electric Railway to the wonders of the world’s oldest aquarium.
Eight
A Legacy of Heritage
From an ancient fishing village to the largest city in Sussex, our history is vast. Mammoths once roamed these shores and Iron Age forts still overlook the city. It was the Prince Regent who truly defined our elegance, establishing Sussex as his royal retreat and commissioning the Royal Pavilion – a landmark of architectural grandeur that remains at the heart of our city.
Nine
Small City, Big Connections
Beyond its coastal charm, Brighton offers an effortless link to the capital and the world. With London Victoria under an hour away by train and Gatwick Airport just a 30-minute drive, the city provides the perfect base for those balancing a global professional life with a coastal home.
Ten
Home to the Best School in the UK
Brighton is home to Brighton College – the UK’s ‘School of the Decade’, which was recently named ‘Top Co-educational School in the UK 2025 & 2026’ and ‘UK Boarding School of the Year 2025 & 2026’ by The Sunday Times.
Countryside Living
While the coast offers energy, the Sussex countryside combines rural charm with easy access to the city. It is a landscape of ancient woodlands and hidden valleys, offering a tapestry of characterful villages – all within easy reach of our school. Discover the unique character of our neighboring communities and find the one that fits your family's pace.
Ditchling is beloved for its artistic heritage and historic cottages; it offers a strong community feel just at the foot of the South Downs.
Lewes is an historic market town defined by an independent spirit, Georgian architecture and a thriving café culture.
With its picturesque high street and iconic village pond, Lindfield represents the pinnacle of idyllic country living.
Steyning is a charming market town with a strong sense of community, tucked within the natural beauty of the South Downs.
A prestigious hamlet tucked beneath the rolling hills of the South Downs, Fulking is famed for its breathtaking views, natural springs and timeless charm.
Rottingdean is an historic seaside village defined by its iconic windmill and Kipling Gardens, with a picturesque beach and a welcoming community, just a few minutes from the College gates.
Known for its 11th-century church and quiet, flint-walled lanes, Ovingdean provides a tranquil rural retreat nestled into the South Downs just moments from the vibrancy of the city.
Alfriston is a picturesque village tucked into the Cuckmere Valley, known for its medieval heritage and refined, slow-paced lifestyle.
Renowned for its classic village green, boutique shops and grand period homes, Cuckfield offers a quintessential English lifestyle.
Henfield is a charming village offering wide streets, historic character and a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by Sussex farmland.
Bolney is a prestigious parish known for its beautiful period properties and its reputation as a gateway to the county’s finest vineyards.
Hassocks the perfect bridge for commuters, combining rural charm with direct, rapid rail links to London and the coast.
City, Coast & Country
The Sussex property market reflects the diverse character of the region, offering a stunning range of homes to suit every family’s pace.
Whether you are drawn to the architectural grandeur of a Regency townhouse overlooking the sea, glass-fronted cliff-top homes with panoramic views, or a flint-walled countryside estate just minutes from the College gates, the options are as varied as the landscape itself.
For those seeking a true sanctuary, the region provides an enviable sense of space. From spacious seafront apartments to secluded detached houses with generous gardens, Sussex offers the privacy and scale that modern family life demands. It is a place where you can find a permanent retreat without compromising on the convenience of a city-center education or a seamless connection to London.
If you are beginning your search, our Admissions team is always happy to provide recommendations for local estate agents who understand the needs of families moving to the area.
Weekly Boarding
Moving to the Sussex countryside should not mean a compromise on school life. Our weekly boarding option, with four nights at school and three nights at home, is designed specifically for families living in the deeper rural spots or those with demanding schedules.
It allows pupils to fully immerse themselves in the academic and social energy of the College from Monday to Friday, while the whole family enjoys home life together from Friday evening. It is more than a convenience; it is a way to ensure that when you are together, that time is preserved for what matters most.
If you are considering a move to Sussex, we are here to help. Our Admissions team can provide a warm introduction to the College and answer those initial questions that come with a family relocation.
Wild Sussex
Living within the South Downs National Park means the ‘great outdoors’ starts at your garden gate. The landscape is more than just a backdrop; it is an active part of growing up and a setting for unforgettable family life.
From the revitalising energy of the coast to the quiet heights of the South Downs, the region offers a natural freedom that encourages children and parents alike to stay curious and active. It is about the balance of a busy school day with the restorative power of shared time outdoors – a lifestyle that is as wholesome as it is adventurous. This is where resilience is built, where families reconnect and where childhood finds its natural equilibrium.
On the Water
From family sailing at world-class marinas to the invigorating ritual of sunrise sea swims, the English Channel is our most vibrant playground.
Across the Ridges
For those who prefer the countryside, miles of mountain bike and hiking trails wind through the South Downs, offering a physical challenge and a mental reset that no screen can replicate.
Through the Forest
Explore the ancient bridleways of the Ashdown Forest – a breathtaking landscape of peace and tradition, located just a 30-minute drive from the city.
A Taste of Sussex
From the world-renowned vineyards that dot the South Downs to the hidden gastropubs found at the end of a country lane, the region is a haven for those who appreciate good food and fine company.
Sussex is a place where ‘local’ really does mean the best of the best, where a Sunday lunch follows a walk on the hills, and a world-class glass of sparkling wine is grown just a few miles from home.
The Many Vineyards of Sussex
Sussex has become the heart of the English wine industry, with its chalky soils producing sparkling wines that rival the very best. Whether it’s a tour of the spectacular Rathfinny Estate or a tasting at Ridgeview, these vineyards offer a sophisticated way to spend a Saturday afternoon in our own backyard.
Coastal and City Flavours
In Brighton & Hove, the energy is just as impressive. The city is home to a vibrant, independent food scene, from fresh seafood on the seafront to the artisan bakeries and specialist boutiques of The Lanes. We have sophisticated dining with a relaxed, coastal soul.
The Village Pub
There is something uniquely Sussex about 16th-century pubs tucked away in flint-walled villages. From the seasonal menus to the open fires, these are the spots where families come together to share a meal after a day in the fresh air.
Culture & Heritage
Living in Sussex means being immersed in a landscape that has inspired writers, artists and thinkers for centuries.
From the radical creativity of the Bloomsbury Group to the grand traditions of the stage and opera, the region is a playground for the curious mind. It is a place where history is part of the everyday, offering a childhood enriched by stories and world-class performances inspired by the past.
Living History
The heritage of Sussex is visible at every turn. From the towering battlements of Arundel Castle to the ancient stones of Lewes, history is a physical presence here. But it goes deeper than the castles; the hills themselves tell a story, from the mysterious Long Man of Wilmington carved into the chalk, to the prehistoric hillforts that dot the South Downs. Children grow up exploring the same halls and hills as kings and revolutionaries, making the past feel alive and relevant.
The Creative Spirit
Sussex has always been a sanctuary for those who think differently. From the artistic heritage of villages like Ditchling to the contemporary energy of the Brighton Festival, there is a constant sense of creativity in the air. This is a region that celebrates the independent and the handmade, encouraging children to develop their own unique way of looking at the world.
A Stage for the Arts
We are fortunate to be surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic cultural venues. Whether it is a summer evening of world-class opera at Glyndebourne, or catching a première at the Chichester Festival Theatre or enjoying an award-winning performance in our very own stunning 400-seat theatre, the arts are woven into the fabric of the county. These are venues that offer more than just entertainment; they provide a lifetime of inspiration.
Brighton College Society
Moving to a new area is about more than just finding the right school; it is about finding your people.
At Brighton College, the warm and inclusive spirit of the city extends directly into our parent community. From the moment you join, you are part of a welcoming, like-minded network where lasting friendships are formed through our dedicated Parents’ Society, ensuring your transition to Sussex is as seamless as it is exciting.
Whether you are moving from London or further afield, you will find a community of families who have made the same journey. It is a group defined by kindness and shared values, providing an instant support system and a busy social diary. Here, the school gates are just the beginning of your new inner circle.
Whether travelling from the heart of the city or the deeper reaches of the Sussex countryside, our network is designed to be safe, reliable and convenient.
Our daily routes run throughout the county, ensuring the journey to the College is a seamless and stress-free part of the day. Find the route that works for your family.
The Easy Commute
Brighton & Hove is a ‘walkable city’, where the sea, the shops and the College are all within easy reach.
Beyond our Home to School bus service, Brighton & Hove is one of the UK’s most accessible cities. With an award-winning public bus network and an ever-expanding web of dedicated cycle lanes, the journey to school is a seamless part of the day.
The flat coastal promenade and integrated cycle paths allow pupils to navigate the city safely and sustainably. This ease of access gives pupils a sense of independence as they grow and ensures that even those living in the city centre are only ever a few minutes away from the College gates.
For the modern professional, this convenience is matched by an effortless connection to the capital, with London Victoria under an hour away by train, allowing for a seamless transition from the office to the coast. Discover how our campus sits at the heart of this lifestyle.
Hear from families who have moved from London and further afield about their experience of settling into Sussex and joining the Brighton College community.
The best way to see what Brighton College is all about is to visit us. Join us at an Open Morning or request an individual visit.