Our guide to
Things to do in Brighton this December - Top 10
Our top picks
Things to do in Brighton this December – The Scoop
Welcome to our things to do in Brighton December round up and let’s just face it—December is all about food! From advent calendars and Christmas parties to The Big Dinner and Boxing Day leftovers, there’s always another indulgent treat just around the corner. We’re dreaming of plum pudding, chocolate truffles, iced fruit cake, and roasties—and yes, even those divisive little sprouts.
Just when you think you’ve had your fill, New Year’s Eve comes hot on our heels. Restaurant kitchens are in full swing—prepping, roasting, and baking to make your celebrations magical. So, raise a glass of fizz and toast to the end of 2024 in delicious style!
1. Win Our Hamper
For the first time, Restaurants Brighton is offering you the chance to win a fabulous festive hamper stuffed with amazing gifts from some of our favourite foodie friends. Worth more than £500, this box of delights will elevate your celebrations to the next level. Inside, you’ll find tasty treats, stylish merchandise, amazing vouchers, and some really good booze. Don’t miss out – enter right now!
2. The Magic of Christmas
At this time of year, magic is everywhere. Take in Santa in the Sky at Brighton i360, visit the Grotto at Shelter Hall, or follow the Santa Bus through town. Sing carols in Queens Park, stroll along the Beach Hut Advent Calendar, or create Christmas potions at The Cauldron. There’s a musical extravaganza at Tottington Manor or ‘Sip and Celebrate’ at The Secret Vineyard. With so many festive events, we’re sure something will tickle your fancy.
3. Things to do in Brighton – Winter Igloos
The Brighton Igloos are back, offering the best of both worlds – cosy inside/outside dining. Wrap up in a fluffy blanket and sip something steamy while someone feeds you Turkish delight…(are we getting carried away?) Find igloos this season at Coppa Club, Shelter Hall, The Sportsman, OhSo Social or Brighton Music Hall. And pair your visit with ice-skating at the Pavilion for the ultimate winter fun
4. Gorgeous Gifting
Skip the last-minute rush to Churchill Square! It’s much better to enjoy Brighton’s festive charm at your leisure. You could stop for a quick lunch at The Coal Shed’s beautiful bar before hitting the North Laine. Plan a day out in Lewes to explore the boutiques and antiques. Grab a coffee at Taith (with stunning interiors from Designs Woodcraft) or end the day with dinner at fabulous No.34. Don’t miss special shopping events like The Ladies Mile Market or the Jolly Winter Festival. For more, here are our roundups of local foodie gifts, the top bottle shops, and restaurant vouchers for your foodie friends.
5. Things to do in Brighton – Wreath Making
Grabbing one from the local supermarket just won’t cut the mustard – this year, it’s all about making your own. A few local restaurants are making this easy for you with cosy, crafty wreath-making events. Experts will be on hand with everything you’ll need to create your own gorgeous door decoration. Deck your wreath with dried oranges, holly, cinnamon, and more. It’s time to get creative! Try Hove Place, Helm Gallery, Cin Cin, or The Secret Vineyard to get started.
6. Christmas Lunch and NYE
Leave the holiday stress behind! Many of Brighton’s best venues are open on Christmas Day and NYE, offering extra delicious festive menus, music, and more. Check out our guides to find your perfect spot. The only hard part will be choosing where to go.
7. Simple Pleasures
Not everything at Christmas needs to involve all the bells and whistles. Simple pleasures can be just as lovely: a pint of local ale at your favourite pub, reading a book by an open fire, taking a brisk walk in the countryside, or enjoying a Sunday roast with family. Escape the day-to-day and explore somewhere new (come with us to Hurstpierpoint). Take time for them; take time for you. It’s a holiday after all!
8. Island Vibes
If you’re feeling the chill, we suggest as a brand new thing to do in Brighton, a trip to The Coconut Island, the city’s newest opening. With a thrilling Sri Lankan menu blending authentic flavours with contemporary technique, this spicy little number with its island vibes and fruity cocktails will warm you right up. And the cherry on top? A more-than-generous 50% off the bill for bookings before December 14th. You’d be mad to miss out!
9. Festive Specials
Craving something special? Try The Perfect Pairing at Helm Gallery, indulge in Fatto a Mano’s Christmas Special pizza (the Guanciale Cacio Pepe), or savour the very special seasonal tasting menus at Furna, etch., and Dilsk. Check out our roundup of must-try holiday menus for a truly memorable feast.
10. Love Food Share Food
The Love Food Share Food believes that every person deserves access to nutritious food and so do we, which is why Restaurants Brighton is proud to support the campaign for the second year running. Love Food Share Food is raising much needed funds to support the local emergency food network this Christmas by partnering with the amazing hospitality industry. Find participating restaurants here.
