Historically known as an actors' and artists' quarter, it has a sizeable gay community and a network of attractive streets with esoteric shops, plenty of small hotels, and a good range of pubs. There is an annual one-day "Kemptown Carnival" during which the main thoroughfare of St. George's Road is closed, and market stalls, street performers, and musicians take over. There are often also processions as part of the carnival, and at other times of year. Kemptown's venues play their part in the annual Brighton Festival. The Royal Sussex County Hospital is based in Kemptown.