Brighton & Hove is gearing up to become the UK’s top spot for women’s sport with a bold new outdoor exhibition launching next week. The showcase celebrates the power, spirit, and stories of women in rugby — just in time for the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy arriving in town.
Stunning Photos Capture Rugby’s Grit and Glory
Opening Monday 23 March at the Seafront Gallery, the exhibition features eye-catching photos of players from Hove Rugby Club and the University of Brighton. Shot by photographers Bx Webb and Mo Tyrrell, the images reveal the heart of the game — from intense focus and raw physicality to fierce friendship, resilience and pure joy.
Building on World Cup Momentum
Brighton & Hove City Council, in partnership with local groups, drives this push to grow women’s rugby after last year’s record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup. The city hosted two sold-out matches at the Amex Stadium and witnessed England’s Red Roses clinch a historic win.
Since then, thousands of women and girls have been getting stuck in thanks to the Strive ‘25 legacy programme and community events backed by the council. The Sport Lifts Her Higher campaign also fights to smash gender barriers, boosting access and visibility for female athletes.
Inspiration on the Seafront
The exhibition, located between the Brighton i360 and the Upside Down House, is free and runs until 26 April. Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, says it’s “as much about inspiration as celebration,” urging visitors to see the life-changing power of rugby on and off the pitch.
With the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy in town and local heroes on display, Brighton invites everyone—residents and fans alike—to discover how women and girls are smashing it in rugby right here in the city.
