Pubs are integral to British culture, we like to drink, it’s ingrained into us, but we don’t want fancy wine bistros, or bright flashy bars that are an assault to the senses. No, we want a dimly lit, slightly sticky pub, with a colour palette of brown and some stodgy junk food to wash down with a few pints. When it comes to pubs, there’s much to see in Brighton, of course some on this list have a few Brightonian twists to appeal to those in need of something a little more, but the want, the desire is still the same. A few pints with the mates, raucous laughter, and endless hypotheticals. So whether you think the world has more doors than wheels in the world, or would rather have a extra Nose instead of an extra Ear, here are some of the best Pubs you’ll find in Brighton.
The North Laine Brewhouse
The North Laine Brewhouse is perfect for the beer purists. Having a brewery on site is always gonna earn you a place on this list, almost by default, but that’s not the only reason it’s on here. A classic pub, with a Brightonian twist, this tavern has everything you’d want in a great place to wet the whistle. Featuring a huge menu, seemingly out of drunk food heaven. It’s serves whatever your tipsy vice is: Nachos, Burgers, wings, loaded fries, decadent desserts and even Sunday roasts.
There’s of course Vegan options too, as has now become essentially custom here in Brighton. But most important to the Brewhouse, is the Beer. They truly care about the quality of drink they serve, so much so that they even host the ‘Brew Experience’. A tour of the brewery, with a curated taste test. They say it best on their site. “Having a brewery on the premises kind of makes you the King Of Pubs, which isn’t something we’re going to quibble about.
It also means we’re first to showcase experimental brews made and devised onsite, so if you’re a hop and grain enthusiast we’ll get along just fine.“. King of Pubs is a bold claim, but they certainly make a persuasive point. If you do find yourself persuaded, you can find out more below.
Website: www.northlaine.pub Address: 27 Gloucester Pl, Brighton BN1 4AA
The Bugle Inn
This one may not look like much, but if you want a real, traditional family run pub, this is the place. Hidden away in the bowels of Lewes road, it sits inconspicuously. You won’t find fancy finger food, or trendy gimmicks, but you will find a classic, family run Irish pub. For what it lacks in size, it makes up for in character.
With barnstorming live music to whisk you away into drunken glee, or at other times a quiet spot to have a beer and read the paper. It’s simple and offers exactly what a pub should be, a place to have a few drinks in good company. It may not be able to stand up to other pubs in terms of selection, or fancy food, but if you just want that classic pub experience, with some Irish magic sprinkled in, you won’t find much better. The term ‘hidden gem’ is thrown around a lot, but this really is one.
Address: 24 St Martin’s St, Brighton BN2 3HJ
The Constant Service
Placed up the incline that is Hanover, The Constant Service is a warm and welcoming pub, with a cosy garden area, a quaint relaxed vibe, and gorgeous Sunday Roasts. For me those are the 3 absolute essentials of a great Pub. It’s a place you can truly kick back after a long day and enjoy a cold pint. Labelled as Family friendly, and most importantly in my opinion Dog friendly. All are welcome, no matter age, size or number of paws.
Also listed as Cask Marque accredited, meaning if Ale is your game, you’re gonna get a top quality pint here. It’s a warm and comforting place that you’ll be sad to leave as they close. Especially with their hearty pub food(available all week) sure to leave you comfortably full and soak up any excess alcohol.
Furthermore, fitted with two Tv’s they make a great pub to veg out and watch the football. Honestly what more could you want in a pub? Charming atmosphere, great pints, award winning Pies, a nice garden and Tv’s showing Football.
Website: constant-service Address: 96 Islingword Rd, Brighton BN2 9SJ
The Hobgoblin
Here’s one for the less traditional. The Hobgoblin is a quirky, spacious establishment that defies pub norms. A pub unlike any other I’ve been to, steeped in originality. With candles on every table, a dark yet warming décor, 80’s Arcade games implanted in the tables in the booths and one of the coolest outdoor areas I have ever seen in a pub; The Hobgoblin is perfect for those that endured one too many boring days stuck at the pub as a child, with nowt but a packet of Scampi flavoured crisps for entertainment.
Heal your inner child with round after round of Space Invaders in between drinks. Or order some of their great pizza and treat the older you to what young you wished they’d had. Doesn’t sound like your thing? Get down to some tunes on the weekend, with their Live DJ’s that play every Saturday and Sunday. It seems to have something for everyone. There was a reason it was voted the best pub in Brighton in 2016.
Website: www.hobgoblin.pub Address: 31 York Pl, Brighton BN1 4GU
The World’s End
The world’s end is another that is more than a typical pub, but don’t be alarmed, it’s still a pub, just with a little extra. “Brighton’s best arcade pub” is proudly brandished front and centre of their website home page. However, they’re selling themselves short with that statement.
With some of the best Vegan junk food in Brighton, this is not just a pub to come for drinks, but easily good enough for a visit for the food alone. Add in a generous selection of drinks, complete with tantalising cocktails and mocktails, enthusiastic staff and a great atmosphere and you have an establishment that can cater perfectly to your every need. Be it food, entertainment or booze, The World’s End won’t leave you high and dry in any area.
Website: www.worldsend.pub Address: 60-61 London Rd, Brighton BN1 4JE
The Mash Tun
The eye-catching Mash Tun is a dead cert for a great evening amongst friends. It’s rare to walk by in the evening and not be greeted by a rowdy but joyous atmosphere, as groups of friends reminisce and laugh about simpler times. Going until 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays, It’s not one to call for last orders just as you’re getting comfortable. There’s no need to rush or start planning to switch to a pub open later.
Its outdoor seating area holds many, yet is often full. It might take some punctuality to get a good seat, but it’s always worth it for such a budding ambience teeming with life and laughter. Well loved by the younger residents of Brighton, they even boast “Every student over the last 23 years remembers nights In the Mash.” which I can safely agree as a younger resident, my finer drunken nights have been facilitated by the Mash Tun.
Website: www.mashtun.pub Address: 1 Church St, Brighton BN1 1UE
The Sir Charles Napier
Another for the Pub purists, as this pub dates back to the 18th Century, serving Brighton for centuries, the memories that have taken place inside this pubs walls are countless. A quiet, relaxed atmosphere, this will suit those wanting a few peaceful drinks in a calm environment.
Well catered for the Ale aficionado’s, their Master Cellarman will ensure your pint of Ale is the best it can be. Of course should Ale not be your thing they have plenty more to choose from, with a generous selection of spirits and other alcoholic drinks.
They aren’t afraid to liven things up however, with bi-monthly live Folk night’s, sure to put a jig in your step. It’s a chance to let your hair down in a more traditional fashion. Of course, if you’re like me, you cant have a few drinks without getting hungry, which always brings the issue of spending far than you had planned by buying an over-priced pub meal. Rest assured, you wont find that here.
With their £12 for two deal on Wednesdays and Thursdays, you wont be dreading checking your balance the next day. A piece of history, that has catered to many, become one of many thousands of patrons throughout their multi-century lifespan and enjoy some drinks. Be it alone or with friends, there’s no reason not to check out this historic pub.
Website: www.sir-charles-napier.co.uk Address: 50 Southover St, Brighton BN2 9UE
