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Park Street Gate And Attached Walls And Piers And Railings

Brighton, United Kingdom

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About this place

Park Street Gate in Brighton is a listed Victorian gateway built in 1890 where South Avenue meets Park Street, at the edge of Queen's Park. Its Grade II listing covers more than the arch itself: the low walls, piers and cast-iron railings attached to it are included too, which explains the registry-style name.

What exactly is it?

The structure marks the entrance to Queen's Park from Park Street, in the east of Brighton, East Sussex. It was designed by Francis J. May, the Borough Engineer and Surveyor, and is built of artificial stone. The central opening is styled like a triumphal arch, and the words "Queen's Park" are carried on the gate.

Low walls topped with cast-iron railings run out to piers at the corners with Park Hill and Freshfield Place. The whole ensemble was listed in August 1999.

Why stop here?

The gate dates from the same year the park land was bought by the Race Stand Trustees and given to the town. There is no ticketed attraction or exhibition: this is an architecture stop on a walk. The park's earlier story is worth knowing. Thomas Attree acquired the land in the 1820s and commissioned Charles Barry to design a villa, finished in 1830. The villa was demolished in the 1970s, but a garden temple (Grade II) and the Pepperpot folly survive in the grounds.

The gate belongs to a listed group with the former Royal Spa on Park Hill and the gate at Egremont Place, so all three fit into one short stroll.

How do you get there, and when should you go?

The gate stands on a public street and can be viewed at any time, free of charge. It is under 2 km from central Brighton, east of the Old Steine, so you can walk or take a local bus towards Kemp Town. Daylight is best for photos, and a visit pairs naturally with a loop of Queen's Park, which has paths, a pond and a cafe.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee?

No. It is part of the street scene and open to view without a ticket.

Who designed the gate?

Francis J. May, Brighton's Borough Engineer and Surveyor. It dates from 1890.

What is it made of?

Artificial stone, with cast-iron railings along the attached walls.

Are there other listed structures nearby?

Yes. Nearby are the former Royal Spa on Park Hill, the gate at Egremont Place and the garden temple in Queen's Park.

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