A Christmas shopping spree by the sea

London’s dominance as the UK’s leading Christmas shopping venue is under threat. Brighton has issued a festive challenge to those looking for the best place to get their presents this year: Visit us this Christmas and you’ll never look back.

Brighton – the country’s most cosmopolitan-city-by-the-sea – is pulling out all the stops to lure shoppers away from the crowded capital and into its intertwining lanes and inviting venues.

With over 300 independent retailers in the city, a host of shows, hotels and restaurants Brighton is determined to make this festive season a spectacular one.

Christmas Markets and Unique Shopping Events
The official countdown to Christmas starts in the city on 20 November as Brighton switches on its lights and late night shopping begins.

This year Brighton will host ‘Christmas Sparkles’, its biggest and best ever Christmas market in New Road on 29 November. Stroll through the traditional stalls in search of handmade gifts and culinary treats or simply enjoy a glass of mulled wine whilst listening to the song of carollers.

Featuring the very best in affordable craft, design and art, MADE08 is Brighton’s annual craft fair and the premier event of its kind in the south of England. With something to suit every taste and prices for all pockets MADE08 (made08.co.uk), taking place 21-23 November is a must-visit for unique and quirky gifts.

Hove museum offers an innovative approach to Christmas shopping with Contemporary Gift to Go. Taking place 1 November – 4 January the event provides a special showcase of gifts and treats including ceramics, jewellery, textiles and glass available to purchase on the spot. Hove.virtualmusuem.info.

Brighton – a Christmas shoppers’ dream
Nowhere is better than Brighton & Hove for seasonal shopping. Its individual shopping spots have something to please everyone from grandparents and grandkids to that special someone in your life.

Take time to explore the hidden gems of the historic ‘Lanes’ and lose yourself in the intricate maze of twisting alleyways and cobbled streets packed to the gills with jewellery shops and gift boutiques. Next stop is North Laine, a bohemian bustle of criss-cross streets and the cultural quarter of the city. North Laine is home to over 300 individual shops, offering something for everyone.

From North Laine head to Churchill Square which houses everyone’s favourite brands under one roof; from H&M to Habitat you’re sure to find the perfect gift.

If you still haven’t found what you are looking for, or simply have the shopping bug, visit Kemp Town. A flamboyant mix of grand seafront crescents, elegant squares and a high street shopping area with a lively village feel, Kemp Town is a shopping experience not to be missed.

Take a break from the shopping
Away from the tempting treats of the boutiques there is a host of activities, events and shows for the whole family to enjoy.

Brighton Marina offers a chance for children to visit Santa for free in his festive grotto during December (brightonmarina.co.uk). The Royal Pavilion will be hosting ‘A Victorian Christmas,’ 20-23 December (royalpavillion.org.uk) and the Theatre Royal (theambassadors.com/theatreroyal) will stage a fun-filled musical version of ‘The Wizard of Oz’ (5 December – 4 January) which is guaranteed to keep the whole family entertained.

Don your skates and hit the ice at the Brighton Centre (brightoncentre.co.uk) or be absorbed by the classic beauty of the St Petersburg Ballet Theatre at the Dome 23-30 December (brightondome.org).

For more information on what’s on in the run up to the festive season in Brighton go to Visitbrighton.com and download ‘Winter in Brighton’, a comprehensive online guide to what’s happening in the city. The guide showcases the variety of events on offer during this period covering arts, culture, music, comedy, kids’ activities and shopping.