The Old Market Brighton, often referred to simply as TOM, is one of the most distinctive cultural venues in the seaside city of Brighton and Hove. Nestled on Upper Market Street in Hove, this building has stood for nearly two centuries, witnessing the area’s transformation from a quiet coastal settlement into one of England’s most vibrant artistic communities.
Originally constructed in the 1820s, the Old Market began its life as a place of commerce and trade, serving the prosperous residents of the Regency neighbourhoods. Today, it thrives as a multidisciplinary arts centre, home to live performances, theatre, film, exhibitions, and community projects. Its story is one of resilience, adaptation, and creativity — a microcosm of Brighton’s own cultural evolution.
The origins of The Old Market
A marketplace for Brunswick Town
The building was commissioned in 1828 by Charles Augustin Busby, a well-known architect responsible for much of the elegant Regency architecture in Hove and the neighbouring Brunswick Town. At that time, Brunswick Town was a new residential area designed for the upper and middle classes who sought to escape the crowded streets of Brighton.
The Old Market was created as a covered market hall to serve the residents’ daily needs. Farmers, bakers, and merchants gathered there to sell fresh produce, meats, and fish. The structure featured large arched entrances, high ceilings, and a symmetrical façade that echoed the Georgian elegance of the surrounding streets.
However, the market was never as commercially successful as its founders hoped. By the mid-19th century, competition from other markets and changing consumer habits led to its gradual decline.
From decline to rediscovery
New purposes for an abandoned hall
After its brief period as a market, the building found itself struggling to stay relevant. It went through a series of transformations: for a time, it served as a storage space, later as a workshop, and eventually, in the early 20th century, as a venue for entertainment and recreation.
Over the decades, The Old Market hosted everything from bingo games to snooker clubs, reflecting the shifting social habits of Brighton’s residents. Despite these changes, its beautiful architectural bones remained intact, even as time and neglect took their toll.
By the late 20th century, however, the building faced an uncertain future. Its roof leaked, its walls crumbled, and its historical value seemed forgotten. It took the vision of a few dedicated individuals to restore its dignity and purpose.
The transformation into a cultural venue
The rebirth of The Old Market in the 21st century
In 2011, the building underwent a major restoration led by Andy Barrett, a local entrepreneur who recognised its potential as a creative hub. After years of neglect, The Old Market reopened its doors as a multifunctional arts and performance space, equipped with modern facilities but preserving its original charm.
The venue’s main auditorium now seats over 250 people, hosting an eclectic programme of theatre, music, dance, comedy, film, and spoken word. Its gallery spaces and bar area have become gathering points for local artists, students, and residents who come to experience the city’s ever-evolving cultural pulse.
What makes The Old Market stand out among Brighton’s many venues is its independence. Unlike larger state-funded institutions, TOM maintains a community-driven ethos, offering a stage to emerging voices as well as established performers.
The architecture and atmosphere
A perfect blend of history and modernity
The building retains much of its original 19th-century character, with its curved arches, stone façade, and open, airy interiors. The renovations carefully balanced preservation with innovation: modern lighting and acoustics were discreetly integrated, while the natural texture of the old brick and timber gives the venue a warm, authentic feel.
Inside, the main hall is a flexible space that can transform from a seated auditorium into a standing concert area or exhibition hall. The lofted ceiling and exposed beams create excellent acoustics, making it a favourite among musicians and live performers.
The bar and café area add to the venue’s relaxed charm — a place where audiences and artists mingle before and after events, embodying the inclusive and creative spirit of Brighton.
The Old Market today
A hub for art, innovation, and inclusion
Today, The Old Market is operated by a non-profit organisation that curates a rich and diverse programme all year round. It regularly features independent theatre productions, experimental performances, film screenings, and music events ranging from jazz and classical to electronic and alternative genres.
The venue also collaborates with local festivals such as the Brighton Fringe and Brighton Festival, providing a platform for both international artists and local talent. Beyond entertainment, The Old Market supports community outreach projects, education initiatives, and creative residencies, making it not just a performance space but also a centre for cultural development.
Environmental sustainability is another key part of its identity. The management has introduced eco-friendly practices, including low-energy lighting and waste reduction schemes, reflecting Brighton’s broader commitment to green living.
Visiting The Old Market
How to get there and what to expect
The Old Market is located at 11A Upper Market Street, Hove, just a short walk from the Brighton seafront and about 15 minutes from Brighton railway station. The area is well-served by public transport, with several bus routes connecting it to the city centre and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
Visitors can enjoy pre-show drinks or meals in the many nearby cafés and restaurants of Western Road and Brunswick Square. The venue itself includes a fully licensed bar, open during performances and exhibitions.
For anyone visiting Brighton, The Old Market offers a more intimate and authentic cultural experience compared to larger venues — a place where creativity feels personal, local, and alive.
A living symbol of Brighton’s creative soul
The Old Market Brighton is more than just a restored building; it is a living example of how history can inspire the future. Its journey — from a 19th-century trading hall to a 21st-century arts venue — captures the essence of Brighton’s transformation into a beacon of diversity, imagination, and self-expression.
Every event held within its sandstone walls adds another layer to its story. Whether you come for a concert, a play, or a film screening, The Old Market offers not only entertainment but also a connection to the cultural heartbeat of Brighton — a place where the past and the present coexist beautifully.