Brighton Sports and Outdoor Activities
(Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, England, UK)
The seaside city of Brighton comes with a number of major sports complexes and opportunities for avid spectators. One such venue is the Falmer Stadium, home ground of the Brighton and Hove Albion FC.
Located alongside the campus of the University of Sussex and roughly 2.5 miles / 4 km to the north-east of the centre, the stadium opened as recently as 2011 (at the cost of more than £90 million) and is officially named the American Express Community Stadium, after its sponsor. Over 22,000 fans can be seated here to watch the biggest games.
Residing on the north-westerly side of Brighton is the Withdean Stadium, where the football club was previously based until its move to Falmer. Mainly athletics events are staged here, along with some rugby union games. The capacity of Withdean is roughly 8,800 spectators, although some of the seating is not permanent.
Football
Football is one of the most notable spectator sports in the area, with the Brighton and Hove Albion football club playing regular matches at the Falmer Stadium, which is close to the neighbouring village of Falmer.
Rugby
Rugby has a loyal following in the area and the Brighton Rugby Union Club is based at the Withdean Stadium on Waterhall Road. The history of the club is a lengthy one and dates to the early days of football, in 1868.
Tenpin Bowling
This seaside city has excellent tenpin bowling facilities, located at the Bowlplex at Brighton Marina. Open daily, the Bowlplex is home to almost 30 bowling alleys, state-of-the-art video games, a bar and a café area.
Golf Courses
Brighton offers some notable golf courses, including the following selection:
- Brighton and Hove Golf Club
Address: Devil's Dyke Road, Hove, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 8YJ, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 556482
- Hollingbury Park Golf Course
Address: Ditchling Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 7HS, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 500086
- Windmill Mini-Golf Course
Address: 8 Marine Drive, Rottingdean, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 7HQ, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 309532
Fitness Centres and Brighton Gyms
There are numerous fitness and sports centres residing within the Brighton and Hove area. Most gymnasiums are open every day, from first thing in the morning until late.
- King Alfred Leisure and Sports Centre
Address: Kingsway, Hove, Brighton, East Sussex, BN3 2WW, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 290290
- Withdean Sports Complex and Fitness Centre
Address: Tongdean Lane, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 5JD, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 542100
- Energy Store and Fitness
Address: 10 Gloucester Place, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 4AA, England
Tel: +44 (0)1273 605495
Water Sports
Situated next to the sea, on the south coast of England, Brighton is also a notable location for water sports. Choices include sailing, wind surfing, surfing, water-skiing and swimming.
Swimming Pools
Apart from the sea, the Brighton and Hove area has several popular swimming pools. The main pool is to be found within the Prince Regent Swimming Complex on Church Street, in the North Laine area.