SLF Pre-Conference Reception, Book Launch & i360 Pod Flight
Kick off Lib Dem Conference in style 450ft above the Brighton coast
Date: Friday 18th September 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Join us for our pre-conference reception and book launch event
Start your Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference weekend with the Social Liberal Forum at one of Brighton’s most iconic venues. Enjoy a delicious buffet, network with fellow party members, and take in panoramic night time views over the coast aboard Europe’s highest moving observation tower.
Whether you're arriving early for the full evening, catching the pod flight, or dropping in late for drinks, pick the option below that fits your schedule.
We are delighted to announce that
Pippa Heylings MP, Lib Dem Spokesperson on Energy Security and Net Zero will be our guest speaker and
David Howarth, Lib Dem MP for Cambridge 2005-10 will be launching his new book;
Being Liberal. The Liberal Disposition in Contemporary British Politics
This book examines the core instincts and enduring relevance of British Liberals, focusing on practical experiences rather than abstract theories. Drawing on the lives, writings, and actions of key Liberal figures—including party leaders from the past 50 years—the author identifies seven defining traits of the Liberal disposition: 1. openness, 2. resistance to power abuse, 3. a non-judgmental attitude, 4. treating people as individuals, 5. rejecting hierarchy and bombast, 6. valuing reason, and 7. seeking compromise. While acknowledging inherent weaknesses within liberalism, the author argues that countering today’s dominant anti-liberal sentiment is critical to mitigating the huge political dangers we face today.
Event Schedule
7:00 PM: Doors open & Buffet served (Vegetarian provided, Vegan & Gluten-Free options on request)
8:00 PM: Guest speakers;
Pippa Heylings MP, Lib Dem Spokesperson on Energy Security and Net Zero and
David Howarth, MP for Cambridge 2005-2010
9:00 PM: Exclusive i360 Pod Flight takes off (30-minute flight time).
9:00 PM – 11:00 PM: Evening Drinks Reception & Networking.
Ticket Options & Pricing
Important: Advance booking is required so the venue can cater accurately.
Final booking deadline is Friday 11th September. (No sales on the door)
| Ticket Type | What’s Included | Early Bird (Until 24 Aug) | Standard Price (Until 11 Sep) |
| Full Evening Pass + Flight | Buffet (7pm) + MP Speeches, 9pm i360 Pod Flight + Drinks | £60 | £70 |
| Buffet, Speeches & Drinks | Buffet (7pm) + MP Speeches + Evening Drinks (No flight) | £45 | £55 |
| Special Price Concession Pass |
Buffet (7pm) + MP Speeches, 9pm i360 Pod Flight + Drinks for Young Liberals, Conference Access Fund recipients & benefit claimants |
£35 | £35 |
| Flight & Drinks Only | 9pm i360 Pod Flight + Drinks Reception | £15 | £15 |
| Drinks Only | 9pm Drinks Reception | £5 | £5 |
Venue & Accessibility
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Accessibility: The Brighton i360 venue and observation pod are fully wheelchair accessible.
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Dietary Requirements: Please specify any dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, allergies) by email to [email protected].
The location is 18 minutes walk from the railway station. Just walk straight ahead to the seafront and turn right.
When you buy tickets think very carefully;
Tickets vary in price from £5 to £70, so make sure you choose the correct one for you.
Can I arrive at 7pm? Would I like to attend the buffet and the MP speeches?
Am I a Young Liberal, or claiming the conference access fund, or on benefits? If yes, you can choose the special price option.
Can I arrive at 9pm? Would I like to take a flight on the pod, followed by drinks? Or do I just want to join in with the drinks?
When
September 18, 2026 at 19:00 - 11pm
Where
Brighton i360
Lower Kings Road
Brighton BN1 2LN
United Kingdom
Google map and directions
Contact
Geoffrey Payne ·