The Level
The Level is a triangular park about a mile north of Brighton seafront, laid out in 1822 where two valleys meet. Ringed by elms and restored with lottery funding in 2013, it has a skatepark, a children's playground, a fountain and plenty of open grass, and it is a hub for the North Laine and London Road neighbourhoods.
Photos
Joel Jey
A bit of history
The ground stayed marshy and unbuilt as Brighton grew, and by 1791 the Prince of Wales had laid out a cricket ground here. In 1822 Thomas Read Kemp and other landowners gave the land in trust to the town. The ring of elms dates from 1844, a gift of the Earl of Chichester. Over two centuries it has hosted peace festivals, May Day rallies and protest camps.
What's here now
A major redevelopment opened in June 2013, restoring the pavilions and the old model boating pond, adding a fountain and a sensory garden, and rebuilding the skatepark on a new site. The skatepark is a big draw for local skaters and BMX riders, and the playground, first built in 1927, keeps younger children busy. There is also a sensory garden and a boccia and pétanque area, and the park has since won a Civic Trust Award and holds Green Flag status.
Using the park
The Level is a good break from the seafront crowds and an easy stop if you are staying near London Road or arriving from the north of the city. It is about 3.3 hectares, with paths on every side, and the Brighton Open Market is a short walk away for food and coffee.
Highlights
- Laid out in 1822
- Skatepark rebuilt in the 2013 redevelopment
- Children's playground and fountain
- Ring of elms planted in 1844
- Green Flag park
Good to know
- Free, open public park.
- The skatepark is busy on dry evenings and weekends.
- Bounded by Union Road, Ditchling Road and Richmond Terrace.
Frequently asked questions
Nearby
Sources: en.wikipedia.org