Local History Resources

Discover the North Laine on foot

By Jennifer Drury

History trail leaflet

‘Discover the North Laine on foot’ is a history trail leaflet launched this week, produced by the North Laine Community Association (NLCA). The NLCA is one of the oldest community associations in Brighton. lt was set up in 1976 when the area was threatened by a council development plan, and has been active in campaigning for the residents of the area ever since. They have a thriving website which you can visit here.

Launch attended by the Mayor

The Mayor, Councillor Geoffrey Wells, himself a very keen local historian, and the Mayoress Mrs Sally Wells, joined invited guests at the Brighthelm Centre last evening, to celebrate the publication of the history trail. The history trail is a guided tour from Brighton Museum to Brighton Station.  

Interesting history

The North Laine is best known today as the city’s most colourful and vibrant neighbourhood. But following this history trail one is reminded that in the 19th century the North Laine was a major manufacturing area. The quirky shops and vegetarian cafes of today were preceded by saw mills, foundries and slaughter houses. The now very desirable houses were mainly occupied by the local unskilled workforce.

Let us know how you get on?

So if you want to find out more about the North Laine, pick up a copy of this excellent history trail leaflet and start strolling. We guarantee you will have a great time. You might even come back here and tell us about it?