Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Craft Beer and Ale in Brighton
Our top picks
The Brighton Guide to Craft Beer and Ales
The Brighton Craft Beer Handbook: Discover the finest establishments offering craft beers, innovative brews, and ales. Your essential guide to the best pubs in Brighton for beer connoisseurs. For more recommendations, explore our Hove pub guide, Hanover‘s hidden gems, and Sussex’s pub scene. Additionally, check out our locals’ choice for Brighton’s Top 20 locals and find the perfect spot to catch football or rugby matches. the following are also top venues to take your old man on Father’s Day.
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Pubs in Brighton
Pubs in Hove
The Southern Ale Trail
One of Brighton’s well-known pubs, The Black Lion, is situated in the heart of The Lanes just near the seafront on Black Lion Street. Not only does The Black Lion have a good reputation for a music-filled night out, its amazing food is also an attraction to many people. The Black Lion serves a great selection of beer including specialist craft beers and regularly changing local ales. If you’re hungry too, the food has got to be tried, including delicious Sunday roasts and traditional pub classics with a modern twist! A great place for a drink in Brighton located in the historic and trendy Lanes in Brighton.
- Live music and DJ's
- Great for cocktails
- Serves Food
- Open til very late
Indulge in an exquisite array of craft beers, ales, and lagers at The Roundhill Pub. Their ever-evolving selection guarantees a delightful journey for your taste buds, with weekly rotations showcasing unique brews from local suppliers. From the bold flavours of Gun Brewery to the crisp refreshment of Roundhill’s signature lager, there’s something to suit every palate. Whether you’re catching up over a pint or savouring the experience alongside their renowned vegan Sunday roasts, The Roundhill welcomes you with open arms.
- Weekly roatations
- Local suppliers
- Vegan Sunday roasts
Beer, amongst many other things, is one thing The Urchin does very well. With their own microbrewery in the basement, there are five craft keg taps, four cask pumps and over one hundred bottles and cans to choose from, The Urchin arguably has one of the biggest selections in Brighton and Hove. Enjoy the beer with deliciously paired and expertly cooked shellfish and seafood dishes, one of our favourites being their own oyster stout and a plate of rock oysters. Delivering some of the best craft beer Brighton has to offer, a Hove pub located close to George Street.
- Own Microbrewery on site
- Shellfish pub
- Independent
If you want to get beer that has been brewed in the city directly from the source, then look no further than the Brighton Bierhaus. This close to Brighton city centre pub is the taproom for local brewery Brighton Bier. The award-winning brewery has been one of the success stories of Brighton’s beer scene and the Bierhaus is the latest feather in their cap. The brewery saved the pub from being turned into flats and have created one of the best places to drink anywhere. Not only can you get brewery-fresh Brighton Bier, they also source superb brews from top breweries from across the globe. With regular events and tap takeovers to look out for, this pub is a must for any serious beer aficionado.
- Craft beer paradise
- 10 minutes from the centre
- A mind boggling beer menu
Dishoom Permit Room’s beer list features cool collaborations with local Brighton breweries, like the UnBarred X Dishoom Permit Room Pineapple And Pepper Crumble Sour. Their rotating beer list includes guest bottles, cans, and the refreshing Dishoom IPA on draught, among other choices. Pair your beer with Indian small plates designed to complement your brew, creating a casual and enjoyable experience. Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a night out, find the perfect beer and bites combination at Dishoom Permit Room.
- Indian cuisine paired with beers
- Great atmosphere with a live DJ every Thursday
- Located in the historic Lanes
The Eight Bells Jevington, situated in the South Downs near Eastbourne, is a perfect country pub for enjoying local beers and ales. They feature a rotating selection of craft beers on draft, including guest real ales that change regularly. Whether you’re relaxing by the open fire inside or enjoying a pint outdoors during the summer, it’s an ideal spot to sample a range of local brews.
- Regularly changing craft beer on draft
- Elevated pub food
- Located near Eastbourne
The Pond
The Pond has become a real destination Brighton pub for serious beer fans. An ever-changing line up of the best craft beers around keep things fresh, and their signature Pond Water brew is a popular choice. A relaxed vibe and central location mean that this is a very popular venue that is open 7 days a week from 12 till 12. When it comes to the food, you will be treated to some glorious street food delicacies. The mainstay are currently Baby Bao who have their own cult following in the city. Matching craft beers and street foods is a masterstroke and one that is serving The Pond very well.
Bison Beer
Bison Beer have become synonymous with craft beer in Brighton. Their bottle shop on East Street in the centre of the city is a favourite haunt for beer heads far and wide. The second premise in Hove, also doubles up as a taproom and bar and most recently Bison has teamed up with Humble Plates to open their third venue on North Street. All venues showcase craft beer at its best, with some of the reputable breweries in the country available to try. Bison also brews their own beer, collaborating with venues around Brighton.
The Shepherd and Dog
Tucked away at the foot of the picturesque Devils Dyke this Sussex country pub is packed with all the picture-postcard charm that you could ask for. Situated in a rustic cottage style building there is a little more than meets the eye thanks to a bar stocked with a modern selection of ales and craft beers. Their annual craft beer festival has given The Shepherd and Dog a reputation as the best country craft beer pub in Sussex. Popular with locals, dog walkers and pretty much anyone who has stumbled across it, The Shepherd and Dog is a fantastic country pub that is just on Brighton’s doorstep.
The Hare and Hounds
This vast pub on the corner of Preston Circus has gone through quite a transformation in recent years. The Hare and Hounds is a lively and vibrant venue for those seeking a good night out. With a wide range of craft beer, ales and ciders and excellent Mexican food, there is a lot going for this place. As part of the Indigo pub group, the beer selection is varied and The Hare and Hounds take particular pride in their Meantime lager. This is a pub that caters to the needs of the many combining great food, beer and even an upstairs music venue.
The Evening Star
This is a Brighton pub that could have a strong case for its own blue plaque given that it is the birthplace of Sussex brewing legends Dark Star. Now that the brewing process has moved to slightly more spacious surroundings, The Evening Star is back to being a great pub with a solid selection of Dark Star beers and a strong supporting cast of UK craft brewers. Ideally situated close to Brighton station, the pub has a strong community of real beer fans who appreciate the well-kept ales and ever-changing lineup.
The Hand in Hand
If you are looking for a pub steeped in Brighton history then The Hand in Hand in Kemptown is right up there. This small and quirky Brighton pub has housed a microbrewery since 1989, and it is believed there has been a pub on this site for the last 150 years. This was the home of Brighton Bier for some time as well as the Kemptown Brewery which has recently been reborn as the Hand Brew Co. This is an excellent little pub that has a great selection of ales, craft beers and ciders that complement the superb atmosphere and décor.
The North Laine Brew Co
This large Brighton pub is the home of the Laine Brew Co who have recently built a new brewery on the outskirts of the city. What this means for the punter is a huge selection of ales and craft beers at your beck and call and plenty of room for you and your mates to enjoy them. The pub hosts regular events and club nights making for a real party atmosphere with excellent beers to keep the party going.
The Black Dove
This super cool Kemptown bar has been serving up craft beers since they first hit our shores. This is the sort of bar that attracts the more interesting members of our community. With its dark wood, deep coloured fabrics, heavy curtains and sumptuous downstairs snug you can easily lose a few hours in here. With an enviable selection of beers, spirits and cocktails, The Black Dove, is a venue to kick back with mates and enjoy some great drinks and tunes to match.
The much loved Hove based pub has re-opened its doors under new management this year, with a fresh yet nostalgic look. Serving great food such as pub classics and Sunday roasts, delicious drinks with a fantastic range of gin, all accompanied with friendly staff and good music. What more can you ask for! Serving the newest craft beers along with the all-time favourites in the form of keg, cask, bottle and can. A good time to visit the Old Albion pub in Hove.
Easy Tiger
Easy Tiger in Brighton boasts a fantastic array of craft ales to tickle your taste buds. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, their selection caters to every beer aficionado. Complementing this beer heaven is a mouthwatering menu of Asian-inspired street food. Feast on dishes like crispy Korean fried chicken, flavorful ramen bowls, and delectable bao buns. The fusion of craft beer and Asian cuisine creates a unique and satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re sipping on a pint or indulging in their delectable dishes, Easy Tiger promises a delightful culinary journey in Brighton.
Unbarred Brewery and Tap Room
At the Unbarred Brewery and Tap Room in Brighton, craft ale enthusiasts are in for a treat. This creative brewery showcases a diverse range of craft ales that are both innovative and full of flavour. From hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and sours, there’s something to delight every palate. The taproom provides a welcoming space to sample these artisanal brews and often hosts events and collaborations with other local brewers. Whether you’re a seasoned craft beer aficionado or just curious to explore, Unbarred Brewery is a must-visit destination for a taste of Brighton’s craft beer scene.
The Sussex Ox
The Sussex Ox located near Polegate is a short 25 minute drive from Brighton and boasts the best selection of beer in the area. Real ales and craft beer feature heavily on the pubs drinks menu with an emphasis on local breweries and start-up projects. With a six tap keg craft ale selection, or a 4 pump cask selection there is something for everyone’s tastes. The beer garden is arguably one of the best in Sussex with stunning views of the South Downs, we can’t think of a better way to enjoy a pint at a Sussex pub.
The Independent
The Independent pub in Hanover, Brighton, is a haven for craft ale enthusiasts. With a rotating selection of craft beers on tap, including local brews and national favourites, it’s a paradise for beer lovers. This cosy and welcoming pub offers a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a pint or two with friends. The staff’s knowledge of their craft beer selection is commendable, ensuring you’ll find the perfect brew to suit your taste. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or a casual drinker, The Independent promises a delightful craft beer experience in the heart of Hanover.
BrewDog in Brighton, nestled at 52-54 Grand Parade, is a craft beer haven with a vibrant and modern atmosphere. This sizeable venue boasts ample seating, making it perfect for groups of friends or casual gatherings. Craft beer aficionados will be in their element here, with an extensive selection of BrewDog’s own innovative and classic brews, as well as a rotating guest beer list featuring local and global favourites. When it comes to pub food, BrewDog offers a delectable menu of burgers, wings, and other hearty fare, designed to complement the diverse beer options. It’s a must-visit spot for beer enthusiasts and foodies alike.
The Watchmakers Arms
If you are looking for a friendly atmosphere, great ales and no unwelcome distractions then The Watchmakers Arms is the place for you. East Sussex’s only micropub and Hove’s best-kept secret, The Watchmakers Arms serves an ever-changing menu of five cask ales, five ciders and Sussex wines. Never heard of a micropub before? Then all you need to know are the four main rules; no Music, no TV’s, no electronic devices and no lager. Micro pubs are all about conversation, community and atmosphere; and The Watchmakers Arms has all three in abundance. Winners of plenty of recent awards too!
Nestled in Brighton’s Hanover neighbourhood, The Haus on the Hill beckons with its renowned Sunday roasts, tantalising Caribbean fare, and an ever-evolving lineup of craft beers that would satisfy any enthusiast. For a truly memorable experience, be sure to savour the Freshman or The Cyclops if they’re on the menu. This welcoming Brighton pub boasts ample space, a charming beer garden at the rear, and additional offerings like a first-floor table tennis room and a private room available for hire. It’s the ideal spot for a relaxed meal, a vibrant gathering, or simply enjoying a refreshing craft beer.
- Award winning Beer
- Brewed in Kemptown
- Serves Food
- Great for roasts
