Groundbreaking Sports Bar for Women Opens in Brighton, Creating Safe Spaces

Brighton has welcomed a new addition in the form of Crossbar, a sports bar created specifically for women. As co-founders Lucy and Pippa Tallant aim to create an environment where women can comfortably enjoy sports, their vision has resonated with many, resulting in an enthusiastic community response.

The Idea Takes Flight

The idea for Crossbar originated from long discussions among friends about the lack of female-centric spaces where women's sports could be celebrated. This sentiment was echoed by Lucy, who humorously shared the journey on social media, gaining significant attention and rapidly increasing their follower count to over 17,000, far beyond their expectations.

Opening Night Success

On February 6, when Crossbar opened its doors, the demand was palpable. Within just four minutes, tickets for the opening night sold out, showcasing the strong support for a venue dedicated to women's sports. Patrons expressed that they have longed for a space that values and uplifts women’s sports, emphasizing the importance of feeling safe and accepted in a social environment.

A Community Space for All

While the bar prioritizes women's sports, it vows to cater to all fans. Lucy and Pippa envision Crossbar as a neighborhood hub where assorted feminine and inclusive groups can gather, watch, and support various sports without the discomfort often associated with traditional pubs. This hybrid space incorporates versatility, from watching the Super Bowl to the upcoming Women’s World Cup, bridging gaps in the sports viewership experience.

A Personal Journey

Co-owner Pippa has opened up about the personal investments that have gone into Crossbar, including using her inheritance to fund the bar. She reflects on her mother’s philosophy of taking risks with money, suggesting an emotional tie to the bar that extends beyond business. As the community responds positively, there is a shared understanding of the importance of creating spaces where people can unite over shared interests.

Crossbar stands as a testament to the power of community, inclusivity, and the impact of a dedicated effort to foster an environment where women feel empowered to celebrate their love of sports. Its swift initial success is only a glimpse of what this novel establishment might accomplish in the future.