Bohemian heart with quirky independent shops, cafés and vintage boutiques: 5 minutes to the city centre.
Study English in Brighton, a vibrant city right on the beach
Cities don’t get more unique than Brighton. Laidback beach vibes meet a vibrant cultural hub where creativity, diversity and authentic British life collide. This seaside city is full of independent galleries, live music venues and a famously welcoming attitude towards international students. Practise your English in the quirky cafés in The Lanes or in the bars along the bustling seafront. Whether you're ordering fish and chips, exploring the iconic Royal Pavilion, or joining in with beach volleyball games, it’s all a chance to build confidence and fluency in an unforgettable setting.
From bohemian North Laine to elegant Hove, there’s a neighbourhood for every style
Flexible course lengths: one week to one academic year
All ESL courses are completely flexible, so you can tailor yours to suit you
Accreditations and memberships
Living and learning in Brighton: creative vibes by the seaside
Brighton wraps you in its creative, seaside energy from day one. Between morning classes and afternoon beach walks, you'll discover a city that's easy to navigate and full of surprises. As the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital, Brighton is fully inclusive, diverse, and friendly. Here's what you need to know about getting around, where to live, and what to do when you're not studying.
How transport works while studying abroad in Brighton
Brighton is a small city, which makes it wonderfully walkable and you can stroll from the station to the seafront in 15 minutes. The bus network is extensive and reliable, with frequent services connecting all neighbourhoods to the city centre and beyond. Most students grab a weekly or monthly pass for unlimited travel, which works out much cheaper than individual fares. Cycling is hugely popular, with dedicated lanes along the seafront and plenty of bike rental schemes available. For longer trips, direct trains run to London in under an hour, with easy connections to other UK cities.
Accommodation for English courses in Brighton
Accommodation in Brighton ranges from student halls with built-in community to private flats offering independence. Homestays are a good choice for daily English practice with local families, and include home-cooked meals and insider knowledge of the area.
Shared houses offer affordable options with other students, while studio apartments are great if you want your own space. Most accommodation is within easy reach of language schools and the city centre.
Rent varies by location and amenities, but our advisors can talk you through what's available within your budget and help you secure something before you arrive.
City attractions
The beach and famous pier are must-sees, but there’s more to Brighton than the seaside. The Lanes twist through centuries-old streets and are packed with independent shops and hidden pubs, while North Laine bursts with vintage stores, record shops, and restaurants. The Royal Pavilion, a spectacular former royal palace, dominates the skyline. You’ll hear live music spilling out of venues every night and the seafront comes alive with street performers, beach sports and, of course, fish and chip shops. Museums, galleries and cinemas offer culture when the inevitable British rain kicks in, though Brighton is known for its pebble beach charm even on grey days.
Choose the best neighbourhood in Brighton for you
North Laine
London Road
Vibrant, multicultural area with budget-friendly shops and eateries: 15 minutes to the city centre.
Roedean
Peaceful clifftop area with stunning sea views and green spaces: 20 minutes to city centre.
Book your English course with ESL to get expert assistance at no extra cost
Want to get the most from your Brighton adventure? It all starts with solid preparation, and we've got your back! Our expert team will walk you through everything, from picking the right course, sorting your visa, and finding a great place to call home.
Getting your visa for an English course in Brighton
Your visa requirements for studying English in Brighton depend on your nationality. European passport holders simply need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), a straightforward online process that grants up to 6 months' stay within a 2-year period. For extended courses, you might need a Student Visa or Standard Visitor Visa, depending on your programme length.
Too many destinations to choose from?
Contact our team of experts, and we’ll find out more about you to pair you with the perfect school that matches your preferences, budget, and language goals.
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