Summer is brewing, bank holidays are coming, and there’s nothing better than grabbing a bite to eat al fresco...
The Beach
Brits have been trying to work out where they can and can't grill meat in the UK since the invention of the disposable BBQ. Lucky for the residents of Brighton, the council is pretty clear on its rules regarding on-the-beach BBQing. Potato salads at the ready people, because you’re more than welcome to BBQ on the beach in Brighton any time after 6pm, providing it’s not between the two piers or between Hove Street and Fourth Avenue. This leaves plenty of space for you to meet up with friends, however, and you’ll even find special BBQ bins along the prom for safe disposal when you’re done. You’re more than welcome to bring a picnic along through the day, but please be sure to tidy up in the bins provided when you’re done and expect to have one or two seagulls try and join your gang whilst the food’s out.
Image credit: toddvic via Flickr
As the sun continues to shine, Brighton’s largest urban park is the ideal spot for grabbing a bite to eat with friends or family. Here you’ll find a playground, a multitude of tennis courts, football pitches and basketball courts, as well as two of the world’s largest elm trees (the Preston twins) and both a rockery and a walled rose garden. Basically, this 63-acre park has no shortage of things to see and do. The park has two cafés, Rotunda and Chalet Cafés; however, it also has dedicated BBQ spots so you can grill away without ruining the beautiful grass. If you want to enjoy a sunny afternoon in the park but don’t want to shell out on lunch for the entire family then we massively recommend a picnic, as we’re sure the kids will happily break away from their fun and games to devour a sandwich or two.
Image credit: Brighton Open Air Theatre via Facebook
Open Air Theatre
Brighton’s Open Air Theatre (Reopening 17 May 2021) is a wonderful part of the East Sussex summertime. Open between May and September they offer a range of performances, including theatre, music, comedy, family shows and even circus events. Whilst the shows are all ticketed, you can save money when you get there by packing a picnic and bringing your own bottle. You will find a bar at the venue (fancy trying their boozy hot chocolate when the sun goes in?), but you’re more than welcome to bring bevs along with you, massively reducing the price of an evening out. There’s also a café down the road offering hot and cold food throughout the duration of the shows but remember the golden rule and make sure you tidy up after yourselves on the way out!
Image credit: Brian Cooper via Flickr
Devil’s Dyke
Any keen outdoor adventurers will tell you how stunning the view at Devil’s Dyke is, so where better to pack up a packed lunch and head out for the day? Five miles north of Brighton, this legendary South Downs beauty spot offers amazing views and is the longest, deepest and widest dry valley in the UK. Treat yourself to a bite to eat after the long trek across this National Trust walk, but if you don’t fancy lugging around a picnic basket then head to the Wildflour Café or the Devil’s Dyke Pub, two places which offer hot food and outdoor seating areas.
Image credit: The White Rabbit via Facebook
Pubs and Restaurants Around Brighton
More and more pubs offer food these days, so beer gardens become ideal places to grab a bite to eat outdoors… with a pint in your hand, of course. Head to the Hare and Hounds on London Road for an extensive menu of burgers, main meals and small plates, as well as a great vegan menu. The beer garden is big enough to grab a table on the sunniest of days, and you can grab a bit to eat outside throughout the day. At The White Rabbit on The Laines, you can grab one of their rainbow benches and check out their extensive American style food menu.