The launch of Queer Edge in Brighton comes amid a challenging year for the city’s queer scene, with three LGBTQ+ venues closing in 2026 and renewed calls for investment in spaces that bring the community together.
Brighton has long been recognised as one of the UK’s leading LGBTQ+ cities, but its queer community spaces are facing growing pressure. The closure of The Queery, R-Bar and Charles Street Tap in 2026 has highlighted the importance of protecting and creating places where LGBTQ+ people can connect, socialise and build a sense of belonging.
Now, East London’s Queer Edge is bringing its community-focused approach to the seaside city, establishing a new permanent home at Ironworks Studios.
The expansion comes at a significant time for Brighton, where 11% of residents identify as LGBTQ+, making it the local authority with the highest proportion of LGBTQ+ residents in England, according to the 2021 Census.
Rather than simply adding another nightlife venue to the city’s offering, Queer Edge Brighton aims to create a space that serves the community throughout the day and into the evening. Its permanent coworking facilities will sit alongside a varied programme of LGBTQ+ events, including club nights, live music, panel discussions and performances.
The official launch party will take place on Saturday 7 November 2026, marking Queer Edge’s first expansion beyond its Hackney, East London roots. The coworking space will subsequently open to friends and family on Wednesday 11 November, with facilities including hot desks, private office space, conference rooms, a green screen studio, podcast studio and dedicated performance spaces.
By combining professional facilities with opportunities for socialising and creative collaboration, Queer Edge hopes to offer something more substantial than a traditional bar or event space: a permanent home where queer people can work, connect, share ideas and develop lasting relationships.
Paul Kemp, owner of Ironworks Studios, believes the community-focused vision is particularly important for Brighton’s LGBTQ+ scene. Paul told QX, “Brighton has a long and proud LGBTQ+ history, and it’s important we continue creating space where LGBTQ+ people can come together, not just to party but to get to know and support one another. What attracted us to Queer Edge is its community-first approach and its vision of bringing the local queer community together, through work and socials.”
With its foundations in Hackney and a new home in Brighton, Queer Edge is looking to become part of the next chapter of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. At a time when established queer venues are disappearing, its arrival represents an opportunity to create a different kind of community infrastructure – one that supports LGBTQ+ people not just on a night out, but in their everyday lives.
Further information about memberships, facilities and upcoming events will be announced via Queer Edge Brighton’s Instagram.
Queer Edge Brighton, Ironworks Studios, 30 Cheapside, Brighton, BN1 4GD.
- Launch party: Saturday 7 November 2026.
- Coworking space opening: Monday 9 November 2026 (friends and family).
- Location: Ironworks Studios, 30 Cheapside, Brighton, BN1 4GD.
- Facilities: Hot desks, conference rooms, green screen studio, podcast studio and performance spaces.
- Instagram: @qe_brighton | @qe_london
- Website: Queer Edge Brighton
- Venue information: Ironworks Studios
