A Landmark with Two Lives
The Old Market in Brighton is one of the most remarkable cultural venues on England’s south coast. Although officially located in Hove, it has long been tied to the history and life of Brighton. Built in the early 19th century as a traditional market hall, it has since been reborn as a thriving performance space, known locally as TOM – The Old Market. Its story is one of reinvention, showing how a building once dedicated to trade became a beacon of arts and culture.
Origins in the Regency Era
The Old Market was constructed in 1828 by Charles Busby, a prominent local figure who recognised the need for a central market space in the growing seaside town of Hove. At that time, Brighton and Hove were fashionable resorts for the wealthy, but still relied on farming and fishing for their daily supplies. The new market hall provided a covered, well-organised place where traders could sell meat, fish, vegetables, and household goods to the community.
Market Days in the 19th Century
During the Victorian period, the Old Market bustled with activity. Farmers from the Sussex countryside and fishermen from the coast brought their goods, while townsfolk flocked to buy produce. Market days were lively social occasions, filled with conversation, bargaining, and the movement of carts and stalls. The building’s tall ceilings and wide spaces gave it both a practical function and a sense of grandeur. For much of the 19th century, it was one of the main commercial hubs of Hove, linking rural Sussex with the fast-developing seaside town.
Decline and Reinvention
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Old Market’s role as a trading centre began to decline. Shops, supermarkets, and new commercial buildings gradually replaced the need for a dedicated market hall. For a time, the building fell into underuse and disrepair. However, its strong Regency architecture and central location meant it was never forgotten. Community campaigns and cultural initiatives eventually led to its revival as a space for the arts.
The Old Market Today
Today, the Old Market Brighton — widely known as TOM — is a multi-arts venue hosting theatre, live music, comedy, film screenings, and visual arts exhibitions. Its programming supports both established acts and emerging talent, making it a key part of Brighton & Hove’s creative scene. The venue is particularly known for its support of experimental and independent productions, offering a platform that is both intimate and innovative.
Inside the Venue
The Old Market has retained much of its historic character, with arched ceilings, open spaces, and period details still visible. At the same time, it has been adapted with modern staging, lighting, and sound systems. The result is a venue that feels unique — at once historic and contemporary. Visitors often comment on its warm, inclusive atmosphere, which reflects both Brighton’s reputation for creativity and Hove’s sense of tradition.
How to Reach the Old Market Brighton
The Old Market is located on Upper Market Street, Hove, just off Western Road and within walking distance of both Brighton city centre and the seafront. It can be reached easily by bus from Brighton Station or Hove Station, with several routes stopping nearby. Its central location makes it convenient for both locals and tourists, and it is often included as part of cultural visits to Brighton’s theatres, galleries, and seaside attractions.
The Cultural Role of TOM
Since its reinvention, the Old Market has become a pillar of Brighton and Hove’s cultural life. It is home to diverse events, from local festivals to touring performances, and it actively engages with the community through workshops, talks, and educational projects. For many, it represents the spirit of Brighton: artistic, open-minded, and rooted in history yet always looking forward (Read it the World History Encyclopedia).
Curiosities and Local Stories
The building’s survival is itself a story of resilience. At one point in the 20th century, demolition was considered, but local campaigners fought to preserve it. Its transformation into a cultural space reflects Brighton’s broader tradition of turning old buildings into centres of creativity. Its quirky name, “The Old Market,” reminds visitors of its trading origins, even as they attend a cutting-edge theatre show or concert under the same roof.
Why Visit the Old Market Brighton
Visiting the Old Market is an opportunity to experience Brighton’s past and present in a single venue. Its Regency origins connect it to the days when Hove was a growing market town, while its current role reflects the city’s thriving arts scene. Whether you are attending a play, a comedy night, or simply exploring its architecture, the Old Market offers an experience that is both historic and contemporary. For locals and visitors alike, it stands as a symbol of how a community can reinvent its heritage for new generations.