On The Beach

On The Beach 2026

On The Beach 2026 takes place from 17th to 26th July on Brighton’s iconic beachfront. This 10-day music festival offers a vibrant seaside celebration with live performances and a lively atmosphere by the sea.

Music

The festival features a curated lineup of live acts and DJs across genres including dance, electronic, pop, and indie. Performances range from internationally renowned headliners to local talent, set against the backdrop of Brighton Beach.

Atmosphere

Set on the pebbled shore with the sound of waves nearby, On The Beach combines sunshine, sea breezes, and stunning sunset views. The festival transforms into a beachside nightclub at night with impressive sound and lighting creating an immersive experience.

Food & Drink

A variety of street food vendors and beachfront bars keep festival-goers refreshed throughout the day and night.

Community

On The Beach reflects Brighton’s friendly and inclusive vibe, welcoming families, friends, and solo visitors. Festival art, custom costumes, and spontaneous dance circles highlight the local creative spirit.

Brighton is easily reached from London and beyond. Direct trains from London Victoria and London Bridge to Brighton Station run frequently, taking approximately one hour. If you're coming by plane, Gatwick Airport is the closest major airport (about 30 minutes by train to Brighton Station). From Gatwick, Southern and Thameslink trains connect directly to Brighton. Travelers arriving at Heathrow or London City Airport can take the Tube to central London and then a train, while Stansted and Luton airports require a longer train journey via London as well. For those driving, the A23/M23 motorway links London and Brighton (about 1.5-2 hours' drive, depending on traffic); note that parking near the seafront can fill quickly in summer, so arriving early or using station car parks is advisable.

Brighton's main station is on Queens Road just a short walk from the seafront. After arriving at Brighton Station, you can either walk (roughly 15 minutes) or catch a local bus, taxi, or rideshare to get down to the beach. The city's compact size also makes cycling and using ride-share services easy options. Brighton & Hove buses run along the coast, and even the open-top sightseeing buses pass by the Pier and beach, making access convenient. Once in Brighton, everything is straightforward to navigate on foot, from the historic Lanes to the beachfront and iconic pier.

When it comes to accommodation, Brighton offers a wide variety from luxury hotels and B&Bs to budget hostels and self-catered apartments. Booking early is recommended in peak summer months, as rooms fill up fast during festival season. Staying close to the seafront or in the city center (such as near The Lanes or the North Laine) will put you in easy reach of the event. Finally, don't forget to enjoy the town itself: set aside time to visit Brighton Pier, stroll along the promenade, and sample local seafood or famous fish and chips. And as with any summer visit to the coast, pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.