Talks & Events

Over the course of more than 500 years, Brighton grew from a small village to one of the main fishing towns in the south of England, with most people employed in fishing and allied trades. However, over time, the trade declined for a number of reasons and now no longer … Read more

We are releasing for sale some important and rare original pieces of the Pier. This is a chance to own unique elements of Brighton’s most beloved and iconic seaside structure. Items include an exceptional cast-iron serpent lamp column (see above) and rare cast-iron seat backs, both of which lined the … Read more

The Chalk Pit Furlong is Brighton’s ‘Lost Neighbourhood’; now almost unknown but located in the central city less than half a mile from the West Pier. This talk looks at its location and history from the 17th century until late in the 20th century. All now forgotten…but is it..? Geoffrey … Read more

This talk marks the premiere of The Detectorist, an audio mystery drama by Anna Bertmark. Through an illustrative journey, the talk shares curious discoveries made during the project’s research process, including interviews with local metal detectorists, historians, and enthusiasts. Introducing the premise of The Detectorist and its themes of narrative … Read more

This talk examines a much-ridiculed aspect of British seaside dress. More than an unfashionable solution to the vagaries of the weather, however, wearing socks and sandals can be surprisingly radical. This talk charts their origins, their intersection with the history of socialism, and their association with local figures and events, … Read more

Based on Kathryn’s new book of the same title, this talk explores how seaside buildings changed between 1920 and 2000. Though this period covers both the heyday and the dramatic decline in popularity of the British seaside holiday Kathryn will show that new attractions were created throughout the century to … Read more