Hove, East Sussex

Hove is a seaside town in East Sussex, forming one half of the city of Brighton and Hove. Originally a small fishing village surrounded by farmland, it expanded rapidly in the 19th century alongside Brighton, becoming a fully developed Victorian town with borough status. The town is known for its wide boulevards and elegant Regency and Victorian architecture, many of which have been converted into flats.

The town’s coastline features storm beaches with shingle at high tide and exposed sand at low tide, making it ideal for paddling. Hove Lawns, a large sea front garden, offers a scenic promenade facing Brighton. Inland, Hove Park and St. Anne’s Well Gardens provide green spaces with native and exotic trees.

Hove has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, with archaeological finds including a Bronze Age burial mound containing the rare Hove amber cup. The town played a role in smuggling during the Regency era, with The Ship Inn reputedly a smuggler’s haunt. It also has connections to notable figures such as Irish nationalist Charles Stewart Parnell.

The town is home to the Sussex County Cricket Club at the County Cricket Ground and offers various leisure facilities including the King Alfred Centre. Hove Museum of Creativity showcases local history, toys, and contemporary crafts. Transport links include Hove railway station with frequent services to London and the south coast, and a comprehensive bus network.

Hove’s distinct identity is often emphasised by residents with the phrase “Hove, actually,” reflecting a local pride in the town’s character separate from Brighton.