Underworld at Phoenix Art Space, 13-23 February

A dimly lit underground tunnel with a curved brick ceiling. At the far end, illuminated targets are arranged on a stand, numbered '1' and '2.' A person is standing to the right of the targets, partially in shadow. The scene has a stark, atmospheric quality with contrasting light and dark areas, emphasising the tunnel's depth and texture.
Stanislas Sauvage – Rifle Range, Brighton Railway Station, 2025

Discover the Secrets Beneath Brighton Railway Station at Phoenix Art Space

📍 Phoenix Art Space, 10-14 Waterloo Pl, Brighton BN2 9NB
🗓️ Preview: 12th February, 5:30-7:30pm. Open: 13-23 February, 12-5pm, Wed-Sun 2025.

Underworld uncovers the fascinating, hidden history of the underground spaces beneath Brighton Railway Station, including the enigmatic Cab Road tunnel. Built in 1841 as a passageway for horse-drawn cabs, this Victorian marvel has fallen into disuse, but its mysteries continue to captivate. This exhibition sheds light on the untold stories of these subterranean spaces, revealing a forgotten world beneath the city’s bustling streets.

The Cab Road tunnel has long intrigued both locals and visitors. Yet its stories remain largely untold – until now. Underworld invites you to explore the rich heritage of these underground spaces, connecting you to Brighton’s unique past.

Between October 2024 and January 2025, volunteer researchers, led by Brighton historian Jackie Marsh-Hobbs, embarked on an incredible journey of discovery. Through walking tours, workshops, and archival visits, they delved into the station’s history, creating a digital archive and uncovering the hidden stories that form the foundation of this exhibition.

Underworld is a must-see exhibition for history buffs, locals, and anyone curious about the secrets hidden beneath the city.

An Underworld website will launch alongside the exhibition on 12th February.

Credits and thank yous

Thank you to Phoenix Community Centre & Phoenix Food Shop, Phoenix Art Space, Brighton Railway Rifle Club (Phil Hamerton and Ambre France), and Govia Thameslink.

The project was made possible by the valuable contribution of all the volunteers who participated – thank you to: Alex Epps, Carly Jupp, Carol Homewood, Daniel Fagg, Eileen Campbell, Geraldine Booth, Heather Holford, Jean Blemings, Keith Upton, Michael Collett, Michael Prendergast, Michael Sherred, Mike Anton, Stanislas Sauvage, Simon Cooper.

Many thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for supporting the project. 

Curated and produced by videoclub and This is Wyld with Annis Joslin and Jackie Marsh-Hobbs.