Like a poorly constructed spot the difference, looking around there are clear signs that things have changed.
Most pubs and shops have signs outside warning customers to wear masks and stick to social distancing guidelines - reminders of a time over the previous summer and autumn when they had fleetingly been allowed to reopen.
An A-board at the entrance of Brighton Station tells passengers they face a hefty fine if they do not wear a face covering while walking through the site.
On the seafront, small groups of people stroll along the promenade. It is the only walk they will legally be allowed to take that day, apart from shopping or a few other reasons.