Brighton’s North Laines are infamous for their quirky and colourful shopfronts, Instagram-worthy aesthetics, and unique opportunities unlike anywhere else in the UK. Though there are, of course, plenty of familiar names found all around the country you can go to for a drink, it’s highly recommended that you forgo the chain pubs for one of the independent pubs and bars that Brighton has become so famous for.
Whether you’re a Brighton local looking for a new place to call your regular, or a tourist after somewhere you can get an authentic flavour of Brighton, here are our picks of some of the most unmissable bars and pubs the North Laines have to offer.
Bars to visit in the north laines In Brighton
White Rabbit
This sweet and intimate pub embodies the quirky vibe that Brighton and the North Laines are well known for. It offers a variety of classic and local beers on draught, such as the Raspberry Tipple from Mad Hatter Brewery, as well as a range of popular spirits and wines.
They also have an impressive food menu that is sure to have something for everyone, from big plates to nibbles, not to mention a Sunday Roast menu that has generated rave reviews from locals and tourists alike.
It offers a cosy & whimsical interior as well as a beautiful pub garden and outside benches that are the perfect spot for people watching on bustling Kensington Gardens. For an authentic taste of Brighton, there are few places better than here.
Website: https://www.whiterabbit.pub/
Address: 13-14 Kensington Gardens, Brighton, BN1 4AL
North Laine Brewhouse
North Laine Brewhouse is renowned throughout Brighton for its massive variety of draught beers. Whilst still playing host to familiar names one might expect to find at pubs throughout the UK, they also offer a huge selection of beers by the local Laines Company, such as the popular Mangolicious, Fader, and Source, and proudly display their own microbrewery behind the bar for all to see.
If beer isn’t your thing, North Laine Brewhouse also offers a variety of spirits and wines and even has a cocktail menu, serving classics we all know and love such as espresso martinis. The venue also offers Bottomless Brunch twice a month and events such as DJ nights, pub quizzes and open mic nights. With benches outside and a spacious interior, the venue is perfect for big groups of friends and families and has space for everyone.
Website: https://www.northlaine.pub/
Address: 27 Gloucester Place, Brighton, BN1 4AA
William the Fourth
Since its refurb in 2017, William the Fourth’s modern décor and low lighting offer a venue that feels a little more up-market, while still retaining the classic pub vibe it has always had. The bar offers a good variety of craft beers as well as branded ones and prides itself on its collection of fruit-infused gins and classic cocktail menu. Furthermore, the food menu has something for everyone, whether that be quick bites, classic pub grub or a Sunday roast.
The location of William the Fourth could not be more perfect and is arguably its greatest asset; it is in the perfect place for lunch on a shopping day in the North Laines, or drinks afterwards as it’s situated on the corner of the bustling Bond Street. It also sits just a stone’s throw from the Brighton Dome, making it a perfect spot to grab a cocktail either before or after a show.
Website: https://williamthefourth.pub/
Address: 4 Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UJ
The Prince Albert
Once a 19th Century townhouse, this colourful pub is sure to catch the eye of any passers-by. Anyone who decides to give it a try will not be disappointed as The Prince Albert is undoubtedly a quintessential Brighton pub.
The reasonably priced drinks and quirky interior are already strong selling points, but the regular live music events hosted upstairs are sure to keep you interested and returning to discover new talent.
This independent, family-run pub is also only seconds from Brighton Station so whether you’re having one last drink before the end of your visit or meeting friends after returning home, The Prince Albert is the perfect place for the occasion.
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrinceAlbert/?locale=en_GB#
Address: 48 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, BN1 4ED
Hobgoblin
Located opposite St Peter’s Church at the bottom of London Road, Hobgoblin is an iconic Brighton pub. The massive beer garden is perfect for grabbing a drink with friends in the Summer, while the dark and cosy interior is a great place to go after a chill evening or when on a date.
Hobgoblin is a renowned favourite among students and it’s easy to see why; they have great drink deals available to students throughout the week, Hob Mondays offers drinks which are available on the deal such as premium lagers, spirits, and house wines, and a DJ every Friday and Saturday night for those who are after a party vibe.
The venue also boasts its own escape room, an activity rising in popularity and ideal for anyone who wishes to try something new. Hobgoblin is a favourite among many Brighton locals, and it rarely takes more than one visit to figure out why.
Website: http://www.hobgoblin.pub/
Address: 31 York Place, Brighton, BN1 4GU
The Pond
Tucked away in the heart of the North Laines, The Pond offers a relaxed and cosy atmosphere slightly out of the way of the main hustle of the Laines. With an impressive selection of craft beers, including their own “Pondwater Pale Ale”, this charming independent pub is becoming increasingly popular with tourists and locals alike.
Furthermore, their Asian Street food menu has attracted rave reviews from both diners and critics, particularly their tasty bao buns, making this pub a must-visit destination if you’re a fan of craft beer and Asian food.
Website: https://www.thepondbrighton.com/
Address: 49 Gloucester Road, Brighton BN1 4AQ
Mash Tun
Located in the heart of The Laines, next to the iconic Pavilion, Mash Tun is without a doubt one of the best-known pubs in Brighton. By day, the benches outside are an ideal spot for people-watching and are a gorgeous suntrap in the Summer, while also offering a food menu with overwhelmingly positive reviews.
By night, however, this multi-floor venue turns into one of Brighton’s best-loved nightlife hubs. The main downstairs area turns into a buzzing dancefloor, while the upstairs seating area offers a quieter and more chilled vibe for those looking to chat. With late closes and DJs every night, frequent themed events and generous student deals throughout the day, Mash Tun is certainly a favourite among all locals.
Website: https://www.mashtun.pub/
Address: 1 Church Street, Brighton, BN1 1UE
Dead Wax Social
This Bond Street bar is a quirky and cool tribute to Brighton’s music scene that attracts an alternative and cool yet friendly crowd, be it students or regulars. They pride themselves on keeping things simple, offering a delicious pizza menu during the day and early evening while hosting DJs playing vinyl late at night until 2 am Sunday-Thursday and 3 am on Friday & Saturday, plus a music quiz hosted every Wednesday to fit with the bar’s aesthetic.
As a member of the Laines company, they have a massive array of craft beer on offer and are passionate about serving good beer, good food and offering a good time. If you’re after a good time with local beer and great music on vinyl, Dead Wax Social is a must.
Website: https://www.deadwaxsocial.pub/
Address: 18A Bond Street, Brighton, BN1 1RD
We hope that from this list of some of the best bars and pubs that the North Laines offer, you have been able to find a new local spot or, if you’re visiting, have found somewhere that shows you what makes Brighton so special and makes you want to return over and over again.
