Question 1

What is the "West Street Drink Spiking Pattern" scam in Brighton?

Accepted Answer

Brighton''s West Street nightlife strip has a documented drink-spiking pattern, especially in larger clubs. Sussex Police have issued multiple advisories over 2024-2025. Some incidents target tourists separated from groups. Use drink-cover mats (Stoptopps, NightCap) and never leave drinks unattended. Stay in groups, leave together. If spiked, call 999 — Sussex Police take spiking incidents seriously.

Question 2

What is the "Seafront Restaurant "Service Charge" Surprise" scam in Brighton?

Accepted Answer

Restaurants on the seafront and Hove Lawns add a 12.5% "discretionary service charge" to bills without verbal mention; tourists adding a tip on top end up paying 25%+ in service. Some menus also have surprisingly small portions vs photos. Check the bill before paying — strike out the service charge if you didn''t intend to pay it (it''s legally optional). Or pay tip in cash if the service was good.

Restaurant Scams in Brighton

West Street Drink Spiking Pattern

Seafront Restaurant "Service Charge" Surprise

Experienced a scam here?