About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Nestled on Brighton Beach, our club has been the heart of dinghy sailing here since 1871. With members of all ages and backgrounds, we’re united by a love of the sea and the thrill of launching off Brighton’s vibrant coast. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or eager to learn, we’re here to keep the spirit of community sailing alive.
Our Story
Founded over 150 years ago, Brighton Sailing Club began as a local hub for regattas and sea adventures. After a brief closure in the 1930s, the club found its permanent home in the historic arches of Brighton Beach. Once an RNLI lifeboat station, our clubhouse now serves as a cozy spot for sailors to gather, swap stories, and celebrate after races.
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Today, we continue to honor this rich heritage, with echoes of the past blending seamlessly into the vibrant community of the present.
When & Where to Find Us
Weekdays
From April - October we sail one weekday a week, or more if the weather is good. We don't have a set day, we play it by ear. If you see us out, feel free to say hi.
Saturdays
Saturday mornings are busy – we run a special programme for new members. Saturday afternoons are our casual sailing days and we can be found rigging our boats on the beach or sailing.
Sundays
Sundays are our main sailing and racing days. We are on the beach from 9:30AM and then racing until 2PM, after which, we head to the clubhouse for drinks.
What to expect
Brighton Sailing Club is a welcoming hub for anyone with a love of the sea, whether you're a seasoned sailor or have recently learned the ropes. Located on Brighton’s iconic seafront, we’re a friendly, community-focused club run by members for members. Whether you're here to race, cruise, or pick up where you left off, there’s a place for everyone at Brighton Sailing Club.
A Club Run by Members, for Members
Brighton Sailing Club is entirely managed and maintained by its members. From organising races to running this website, the bar, everything you see is made possible by members volunteering their time. This collaborative spirit means every member has the opportunity to get involved, making the club a truly unique and rewarding experience.
A Thriving Mix of People
Our members come from all walks of life—families, individuals, seasoned sailors, and complete novices (from our Learn to Sail programme). While dinghy sailing is at the heart of what we do, you'll also find people who swim, paddleboard, or simply love soaking up the seaside atmosphere. The one thing we all share? A love of the sea and the camaraderie that comes with it.
Sailing, Racing, and Inclusivity
Brighton Sailing Club is a haven for experienced sailors who are ready to embrace the thrills of dinghy racing and open-water sailing. Our bustling race calendar features regular Sunday morning competitions and opportunities to refine your skills on the water. While we don't cater to complete beginners, we welcome sailors who are looking to join an active, supportive community and take their sailing to the next level. Off the water, our club is just as inclusive—a place where everyone can connect, share their passion for the sea, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Club History
Setting Sail in 1871
The club hoisted its metaphorical sails on 1st May 1871, quickly becoming a cherished part of Brighton life. A contemporary newspaper described its early clubhouse as offering "a charming view for a considerable distance of the ocean, and no better place exists for witnessing the many sailing and rowing matches."
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By 1877, the Brighton Guardian proclaimed the club to be "an institution looked upon as almost a local necessity—certainly an important local attraction." Its reputation flourished as a hub for sailing enthusiasts and spectators alike.
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Ups and Downs: From Closure to Rebirth
In 1934, Brighton's council proposed widening the promenade, a project that would have fundamentally altered the club's space. Rather than compromise its character, the committee made the difficult decision to close temporarily. But the sea always finds its way back, and so did Brighton Sailing Club.
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In 1935, the club reopened at its current location in a pair of seaside arches with fascinating histories of their own. One served as a lifeboat station for the RNLI (look for the plaque outside!), while the other was the workshop and photographic studio of William Tickner, a local boatbuilder and photographer.
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A Modern Revival
The 1970s brought a fresh wave of energy, with the now-iconic wooden roof vaulting added to the clubhouse in 1978. Members fondly remember the retro charm of the bar décor that remained untouched for decades, only recently updated to accommodate our growing community.
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A turning point came in 1994 when the Brighton Cruising Club on Brighton Beach closed. This change brought new members, energy, and purpose to Brighton Sailing Club, ushering in the thriving, bustling club you’ll find today.
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Today’s Club: Where History Meets Fun
Step into our club on a sunny summer afternoon, and you’ll see history in action. From the morning’s racing excitement to the lively chatter over a drink in the bar, the spirit of Brighton Sailing Club endures. We’re proud to honor our rich past while staying anchored in the present, ensuring the club remains a cornerstone of Brighton’s vibrant seafront.
Thanks to Paul Tofts, Jim Parrot, James Turner, Roger Barnacle, Simon Matthew and many more for their historical research. A club History page with resources can be found here.