In depth · Christmas & New Year
Christmas in Brighton: the lights, the ice rink and winter by the sea
In December, lights are strung across the streets of the North Laine, an ice rink appears in front of the Royal Pavilion, and the seafront is at its most dramatic. Here is what we could confirm on 26 October 2026; dates for the new season follow when the organisers publish them.
Updated October 2026
Lights in the North Laine
In December, strings of lights cross Bond Street, Gardner Street and the other streets of the North Laine, with the independent shops open late for Christmas shopping.
Skating by the Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is set up each winter in front of the Pavilion, with a rinkside bar and kitchen. Its 2025/26 season ran from 25 October 2025 to 4 January 2026; check royalpavilionicerink.co.uk for the next season before you plan.
Christmas shopping
For presents, wander the jewellers of the Lanes and the vintage and record shops of the North Laine; Churchill Square has the high-street names under its glass dome.
Winter by the sea
A winter walk on the seafront, with the West Pier against a low sun, is one of the best things to do in Brighton in December; wrap up against the wind.
Questions and answers
Is there an ice rink in Brighton at Christmas?
Yes: the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink is set up each winter in front of the Royal Pavilion; check its own site for the dates.
Ice-rink dates from royalpavilionicerink.co.uk, checked 26 October 2026 (the 2026/27 dates were not yet published). Check before you go.