Secrets of the Lanes Tour

If you have spent any time wandering through Brighton, you have likely walked past the narrow, winding alleys of The Lanes without giving much thought to what lies behind the shopfronts. On Saturday, 25 April 2026, there is a semi-private walking tour called the Secrets of the Lanes Tour that aims to dig into that history. It is a 1.5-hour walk led by a Blue Badge accredited guide, which essentially means the person leading the group has gone through the official training to provide historical context rather than just general commentary. The route focuses on the 18th-century origins of the area, contrasting the old fishermen's cottages that once defined this part of town with the independent shops and cafes that occupy the space today.

The tour starts at the entrance of the Brighton Palace Pier on Madeira Drive at 11:30. You will be looking for a guide carrying a folder marked with 'Secrets of Lanes'. From there, the walk moves through the labyrinth of 'twittens'—the local term for these narrow pedestrian passages—and the Old Town. The narrative covers the evolution of the area from the Tudor era up to the present day, touching on local characters and the architectural shifts that have shaped the district. It is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 people, which keeps the experience relatively intimate compared to larger walking tours.

Regarding the practical side of things, the tour is priced from approximately $49.94 per person. It is generally considered suitable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, and while it is family-friendly, it is recommended for children aged 10 and up, who must be accompanied by an adult. The walk concludes at the Queens Hotel Brighton on Kings Road. Because the tour involves navigating narrow, historic streets, it is worth noting that there is no specific information provided regarding wheelchair accessibility or pet policies, so it is best to check with the operator, 'Only in Brighton', if you have specific requirements. The tour is conducted in English, and while some booking platforms mention free cancellation up to 24 hours before, others note that ticket sales are final, so it is worth double-checking the terms of the specific platform you use to book.