Brighton on England's south coast is a go-to destination for many Brits on a day trip, especially in fine weather. But Hove — part of the wider Sussex city of Brighton and Hove — often goes unnoticed. It is quite upmarket, with streets lined with houses built in the late 19th century. According to Rightmove, the average property price in Hove over the last year was £530,620. The district also featured in The Sunday Times' list of the best places to live by the sea for 2023 and 2025.
A Local's Perspective on Hove
Express reporter Adam Toms has visited the area several times recently, as one of his friends is from there. He has enjoyed time on the beach, breakfast and lunch out, and evenings at the cricket ground watching the Sussex Sharks. Toms recommends Hove for those who want to avoid the Brighton crowds, noting its pebbled beaches are basically the same as those where thousands flock.
This summer, the sea temperature was just right for a refreshing dip. While there may be less to do overall in Hove than in Brighton, there is by no means nothing to do. After time on the seafront, there are plenty of good places to eat.
Top Brunch Spots and Local Pubs
Toms recommends Fika, a walk-in brunch cafe. Brighton Food Boy writes that its Breakfast Bird — fried egg, free range buttermilk fried chicken, smoked candied bacon, maple mayo, smoked cheese, Korean BBQ sauce, and pickles — is “the best fried chicken burger in Brighton & Hove. Fact.” Richard's Cafe also does a great breakfast, which Toms enjoyed recently while enduring a hangover, though after quite a lengthy wait.
For those diving into local pubs, Toms suggests downloading the Pubbl app, which rewards visits to local venues. It also covers places in Brighton and London. The Exchange, Old Albion, Freemasons and Ancient Mariner are participants in Hove.
Toms concludes that catching a train, swerving the chaos of Brighton, and enjoying a slap-up brunch followed by a swift pint is a worthwhile trip, promising readers they won't be disappointed.
