Old Police Cells Museum

Description

The Old Police Cells Museum in Brighton is one of those places that feels a little off the beaten path, but that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating. Tucked away in the basement of Brighton Town Hall, it’s not your typical polished museum with shiny displays and digital touchscreens. Instead, visitors step into a world that still feels raw, atmospheric, and honestly a bit eerie. The museum tells the story of Sussex policing from the early 19th century right through to more modern times, with a collection of uniforms, truncheons, and even graffiti left behind by rowdy mods and rockers during the 1960s.

Walking through those cold stone corridors, you can almost hear the echoes of the past. Some cells still carry that heavy, claustrophobic air, and you’re reminded this wasn’t just a place for history—it was a place where people lived out some of their darkest moments. It’s not a huge museum, but that’s part of its charm. The guides, often retired officers, bring the stories to life in a way that’s both personal and authentic. That said, if you’re someone who prefers glossy, high-tech exhibitions, you might find it a little rough around the edges. Personally, I think that’s exactly why it works—it feels real.

The museum has earned a reputation for being a hidden gem, though not everyone finds it perfect. Some visitors are blown away by the storytelling and the atmosphere, while others think it’s a bit too small or a little spooky. But if you’re curious about history that’s gritty and human rather than sanitized, this place will leave a lasting impression.

Key Features

• Authentic Victorian-era police cells located beneath Brighton Town Hall
• Guided tours led by knowledgeable volunteers, often with policing backgrounds
• Collection of Sussex Police memorabilia spanning nearly 200 years
• Stories of infamous local crimes, including the murder of Brighton’s first Chief Constable
• Graffiti from the mods and rockers era still visible on the walls
• Wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom facilities
• Family-friendly tours that keep kids engaged with storytelling and visuals

Best Time to Visit

The museum isn’t open every day, so planning ahead is essential. Tours are usually scheduled on specific afternoons, often Fridays, and they tend to book up quickly. If you’re visiting Brighton during the summer, it’s a great way to escape the crowds on the beach for an hour or two and dive into something completely different. I personally think autumn is the sweet spot—the cooler weather outside makes the chilly underground cells feel even more atmospheric. And if you’re someone who enjoys a bit of a spooky vibe, visiting close to Halloween adds an extra layer of thrill.

It’s worth noting that because the tours are guided, you don’t have the freedom to wander endlessly, but that’s a good thing here. The guides’ stories make the place come alive in ways you’d miss if you were just walking around on your own.

How to Get There

Reaching the Old Police Cells Museum is straightforward if you’re already in Brighton. Since it sits right in the heart of the city, you won’t need to trek far. From Brighton train station, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk downhill, and along the way you’ll pass shops, cafés, and the occasional street performer. If you’re driving, parking can be tricky and expensive in central Brighton, so public transport is usually the smarter choice. Buses from all over the city stop nearby, making it easy to slot a visit into your day without much hassle.

I once made the mistake of driving in on a Saturday afternoon—let’s just say circling for parking took longer than the museum tour itself. Lesson learned. Stick to walking or buses if you can.

Tips for Visiting

A few practical things can make your visit smoother. First, book your tickets in advance. Tours are limited in size, and they really do sell out. If you’re traveling with kids, don’t worry—the guides are great at keeping younger visitors engaged without making it feel like a school trip. Just be prepared for some darker stories, so gauge whether your child is ready for that kind of content.

Accessibility is decent, with a wheelchair-friendly entrance and restrooms, though parking nearby isn’t the easiest if you need step-free access. There’s no café or restaurant on-site, so grab a bite before or after your visit. Luckily, being in Brighton, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to food. I usually head for a coffee afterwards to warm up—those underground cells can leave you feeling a bit chilled, even in summer.

Bring a curious mindset. This isn’t a flashy attraction where you’ll be snapping Instagram photos every few seconds. It’s more about soaking up the atmosphere and listening to the stories. And if you’re like me and enjoy quirky, slightly off-kilter experiences when you travel, the Old Police Cells Museum will probably end up being one of your favorite memories from Brighton.

Location

Places to Stay Near Old Police Cells Museum

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides