The Old Market

On the border of the two towns that southern Great Britain is famous for, lies a unique cultural space known as The Old Market (TOM). This majestic building, recognized as a Grade II listed architectural monument, harmoniously combines 19th-century elegance with the modern energy of an independent art center. Today, Brighton is proud of this venue as one of the most dynamic places for creativity.

The Old Market. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Founded by architect Charles Busby nearly two centuries ago, The Old Market has preserved its iconic arches and original wooden beams, which create unique acoustics in the main hall. The venue's capacity varies from 300 to 500 people, making every event here feel especially cozy and intimate, whether it's a large-scale concert or an experimental theatrical production.

Currently, the center is managed by the creators of the world-famous show STOMP, who have turned it into a true arts laboratory. Under one roof, you'll find theatrical stages, a concert hall, photography galleries, and a stylish bar where DJs regularly perform and comedy nights are held. Since 2024, The Old Market has officially been a registered charity, continuing to support talent and delight the public with high-quality content.

To check the current events program or book tickets, it is recommended to contact the venue administration directly. The official website is the primary source of information regarding upcoming shows, concerts, and special projects.

Below are the main contact details for communication and navigation:

Enjoying live performances of the highest caliber is the main reason to step through the doors of this venue. The stage has seen stars like Fatboy Slim and Michael McIntyre, but there is also always a chance to discover new names in music, theater, and cabaret. Thanks to the exceptional acoustics and the flexible space of the main hall, every show turns into a profound audiovisual experience.

In addition to evening performances, visitors should check out the art and photography galleries located inside the building. It’s a great opportunity to get acquainted with the works of contemporary artists in a historical setting. The venue also regularly hosts technology festivals, such as #TOMtech, which blend art and digital innovation.

The local bar deserves special mention as it becomes a hub of activity during events. Here, you can not only order drinks but also catch free DJ sets or live stand-up performances. The bar's trendy yet relaxed atmosphere is perfect for discussing the show you've just seen and feeling the real pulse of Brighton and Hove's cultural life.

Located at 11A Upper Market St, this venue is within walking distance of the city's key landmarks. A walk from the central railway station takes about 10–15 minutes, while a stroll from the famous Brighton Pier to the entrance takes approximately 20–25 minutes through scenic streets.

If you prefer public transport, many buses stop nearby. The closest stops are Brunswick Place and Wish Road. From the city center, it is convenient to take routes No. 5B, 6, 12A, 47, or 49. Those coming from the Hove side can use buses No. 700 or 47.

For a taxi ride, simply state the venue's name — any driver in the city knows where this cultural hub is located. If you are traveling by private car, please note that nearby parking spaces (e.g., at Brunswick Square) are paid and often occupied, making public transport the most comfortable option.

The history of this remarkable place began between 1825 and 1828, when architect Charles Busby designed the building as an indoor market. It was intended to be the commercial heart of the prestigious Brunswick Town district, providing locals with fresh meat, fish, and vegetables. However, due to stiff competition from the city's central markets, trade did not flourish, and the building soon changed its purpose.

In subsequent decades, the premises were used in most unusual ways: it housed a riding academy and stables. It is said that the ghostly sound of hooves can still be heard within the walls, a reminder of the times when polo matches were held here. Later, the building served as a food warehouse and even had its own bacon smokehouse.

A new era began in the 1970s when the idea arose to transform the historic walls into an arts space. After a large-scale restoration in the late 1990s, funded by a significant grant, the building opened as a modern art center. A special role in its current life was played by the creators of the world-renowned show STOMP, Steve McNicholas and Luke Cresswell, who purchased and modernized the venue in 2010, while preserving the original wooden roof beams and iconic arches.

When planning your visit, you should primarily focus on the duration of your chosen event. Generally, a theatrical production, concert, or stand-up show lasts between 1.5 and 2.5 hours. However, to fully enjoy the atmosphere of this historic building, it is recommended to arrive early.

Typically, visitors allocate between 2 and 4 hours for their visit. This is enough time to leisurely admire the interior's architectural features, visit the local bar which is open during performances, and perhaps browse the art gallery if an exhibition is being held. If your visit includes participating in a festival or several consecutive activities, you could spend up to 5 hours in this creative space.

If you plan to visit the building during the day to see its architecture or visit the administration, you should take the standard opening hours into account. On weekdays, the doors are open to visitors for a limited window of time:

• Monday — Friday: 12:00 – 15:00
• Saturday and Sunday: Closed

It is important to remember that operating hours expand significantly during evening concerts and performances. The bar and box office area usually open some time before the start of a show. It is always recommended to check the current schedule for each specific event on the official website before your visit.

Exploring the surroundings after attending a cultural event can significantly enrich your trip experience. The venue's location at the junction of two vibrant areas makes it easy to combine a show with a coastal walk or a visit to other popular tourist locations.

In the immediate vicinity of the venue, you will find both family entertainment centers and historical monuments: