Brighton
United Kingdom London can keep its official title—Brighton, the Queen of Watering Places, might be the United Kingdom's LGBTQ+ capital!
The United Kingdom's first equal marriage happened here in 2014... or in 1923! You'll have time to get caught up on Brighton's history on the 1-hour train ride from London or half-hour flight from London Gatwick airport. Once you're in, head to Kemptown, where you'll find a plethora of LGBTQ+ owned pubs and clubs, plus restaurants serving delectable eats—alongside cabaret, in some cases!—along the Main Parade road (A259) and on St. James's Street. Brighton's seaside accommodations range from quaint and cozy, to ultra-luxurious, to dark and dungeon-like… if you’re into that! Brighton’s reputation as a seaside resort city where folks can be themselves means you can take a vacation from vanilla here.
That reputation dates back to the 18th century! Check out the Royal Pavilion, built for the fun-loving Prince Regent (and later King) George IV and described officially as “a fabulous palace,” which is all the endorsement we need! Brighton Palace Pier offers up modern arcade attractions. Brighton Beach, spanning 3.1 mi / 4.9 km, is a pebble beach thronged with swimmers in summer. The easternmost segment is a naturalist (nudist) beach, matching Brighton's free-spirited energy.
Brighton's pride celebrations are in the plural! Brighton & Hove Pride draws over 160,000 celebrants from the United Kingdom and abroad each August. In early July, come out for Trans Pride Brighton, and stick around for Brighton Bear Weekend later that month. After your seaside rest cure (or rager!) ends, you'll stay buoyed with Brighton's accepting, progressive attitude.
