The very best 12 nightlife spots in Brighton, United Kingdom

Welcome, night owls, to the vibrant coastal city of Brighton! Prepare to be dazzled by its eclectic nightlife scene, where you can unleash your inner party animal. Our fearless quest to uncover the top 12 hotspots has led us to quirky pubs nestled in hidden alleys, glamorous cocktail lounges seducing your taste buds, and dance floors where even the shyest souls can't help but bust a move. From the notorious dive bars to refined jazz joints, Brighton's nightlife promises an adventure that will leave you with dazzling memories and a few blurry snapshots of your unforgettable escapades.

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1. The Prince Albert

4.5 (1254)

48 Trafalgar St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4ED, UK

Nestled in the quirky lanes of Brighton, The Prince Albert is a charmingly eccentric watering hole that boasts a remarkable blend of classic British pub culture and offbeat character. Immerse yourself in the lively ambience as you enter through its doors, where embracing peculiarities is not just encouraged but practically mandatory. Brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you sip on a pint of local craft beer while contemplating whether the taxidermied badger in the corner would be a potential conversation starter or just a reminder of the pub's wild side.

princealbertbrighton.co.uk

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2. The Basketmakers Arms

4.6 (1168)

12 Gloucester Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AD, UK

Welcome to The Basketmakers Arms in the vibrant city of Brighton, a delightful pub that could easily qualify as a haven for basket enthusiasts if such a thing existed. With an array of baskets decorating the walls like an eccentric art collection, this place certainly knows how to weave a unique atmosphere. Get ready to tickle your taste buds with their hearty pub grub, which will leave you wondering if you're in a pub or a Michelin-starred restaurant... or maybe a basket weaving convention.

www.thebasketmakers.pub

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3. The Old Albion

4.2 (549)

110 Church Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 2EB, UK

Welcome to The Old Albion in Brighton, where time seems to have taken a vacation from updating this quirky pub. As you enter, brace yourself for a bold clash in décor; here you'll find a charming mishmash of mismatched furniture, retro wallpaper, and enough fairy lights to illuminate a small village. Be prepared to embark on a culinary adventure, as their menu boasts a delightful and daring combination of traditional British fare and experimental fusion dishes that will make your taste buds go on a rollercoaster ride.

oldalbion.pub

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4. The Black Lion

4.2 (1786)

Black Lion, 14 Black Lion St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1ND, UK

Welcome to The Black Lion, the pub that proves once and for all that lions can indeed be black — well, metaphorically speaking. Nestled in the vibrant city of Brighton, this quirky establishment is a roaring hotspot for locals and tourists alike. With its eclectic décor, lively atmosphere, and a drink selection as diverse as the patrons, it's no wonder The Black Lion has established itself as the mane attraction in town — pun most definitely intended!

www.blacklion.pub

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5. The Marlborough

The Marlborough, 4 Prince's St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1RD, UK

Welcome to The Marlborough in Brighton, where the charm of a traditional British pub collides with the eccentricity of seaside living. Grab yourself a pint and settle into this quirky historical gem, where the floorboards are creaky, and the locals are as vibrant as the multicolored deckchairs on the pebbled beach. Whether you're after a pint of bitter, a plate of fish and chips, or a front-row seat to witness a seagull snatch your sandwich, The Marlborough has got you covered.

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6. The Mesmerist

4.2 (2002)

1-3 Prince Albert St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1HE, UK

Located in the heart of Brighton, The Mesmerist is a one-of-a-kind destination that will leave you baffled, entertained, and perhaps a tad mesmerized. Step into this quirky establishment and be prepared for an experience that is part Victorian parlour, part retro speakeasy, and part David Copperfield's secret hideaway. With its beguiling mix of vintage curiosities, old-world charm, and mind-bending illusions, The Mesmerist promises a night out that is as unforgettable as it is bizarre.

www.mesmerist.pub

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7. The Plotting Parlour

4.7 (601)

6 Steine St, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1TE, UK

Welcome to The Plotting Parlour, a delightful haven for cunning minds located in the heart of Brighton. This unassuming establishment boasts an enticing charm, perfect for those seeking a sanctuary of scheming. With a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a clandestine gatherer's den, it caters to the bold and the devious, offering an array of delectable drinks to lubricate the gears of your dastardly plans. Get ready to unleash your inner plotting genius as you indulge in the intoxicating ambience of this enchanting den of conspiracies.

theplottingparlour.uk

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8. The Hop Poles

4.4 (778)

13 Middle St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1AL, UK

Nestled in the vibrant city of Brighton, The Hop Poles embraces its eccentricity with open arms, as if wearing multicolored socks with sandals. This charming pub is not your typical watering hole; it's more like stumbling into a whimsical world where time is irrelevant and laughter is mandatory. With its kaleidoscope of characters, lively atmosphere, and a menu bursting with culinary surprises, The Hop Poles guarantees an unforgettable experience, whether you're a local seeking refuge or a curious traveler in for a pint-sized adventure.

www.hoppolesbrighton.co.uk

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9. The White Rabbit

4.4 (910)

13-14 Kensington Gardens, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 4AL, UK

Nestled in the vibrant streets of Brighton lies a quirky haven known as The White Rabbit, a place where whimsy meets exceptional gastronomy. Step through its doors and be transported to a wonderland of delectable delights and peculiar charm. Prepare to be enchanted by its whimsical décor, making you feel as if you've tumbled headfirst into a Mad Hatter's tea party - just be sure to keep an eye on the time, you wouldn't want to be late for this culinary adventure!

www.whiterabbit.pub

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10. The Bee's Mouth

4.5 (551)

10 Western Rd, Brighton and Hove, Hove BN3 1AE, UK

Welcome to The Bee's Mouth, where the quirky vibe meets a pub in Brighton. This hidden gem offers a delightful mishmash of eclectic décor, from old vinyl records to peculiar taxidermy specimens hanging from the walls. With an ambiance that feels like stepping into a time machine, brace yourself for a whimsical experience that'll tickle your senses and leave a lasting impression. Don't forget to sample their equally eccentric drinks, as their imaginative cocktail concoctions will surely make you buzz with excitement.

www.thebeesmouth.com

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11. The Fountain Head

4.2 (522)

The Fountain Head, 101 North Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1YE, UK

Nestled in the heart of Brighton, The Fountain Head is an architectural oddity that boldly stands out amidst the sea of quirky British establishments. Its whimsical exterior, resembling a mischievous blend of a castle and a funhouse, is sure to catch your attention. Step inside and be prepared to be greeted by a cacophony of mismatched decor, where time seems to have played a rather mischievous game of hide-and-seek.

www.fountainheadbrighton.pub

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12. The Lion and Lobster

4.4 (2107)

24 Sillwood St, Brighton, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2PS, UK

Welcome to The Lion and Lobster, a quirky little gem nestled in the vibrant city of Brighton. This charming establishment, boasting the whimsical fusion of a traditional British pub with coastal elegance, will delight your senses and tickle your taste buds in equal measure. Here, you can savor delectable culinary creations while surrounded by a decor that celebrates lions and crustaceans harmoniously - a true haven for those who appreciate the charmingly peculiar.

www.thelionandlobster.co.uk

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How to get there

Plane

The easiest and quickest way to get to Brighton by plane is to fly into London Gatwick Airport, which is about 30 kilometers away from Brighton. There are regular train and bus services that connect the airport to Brighton. Flying into London Heathrow Airport is also an option, however, it is further away and requires a longer journey by train or bus.

Car

The best way to get to Brighton by car is to take the M23 motorway from London and follow the signs to Brighton. It takes about an hour to drive from London to Brighton, depending on traffic. There are several car parks in Brighton, including the NCP car park on Russell Road and the Regency Square car park.

Train

Brighton is well connected by train to London and other major cities in the UK. The best way to get to Brighton by train is to take a high-speed train from London, such as the Thameslink or Southern Railways services. These trains run regularly throughout the day and take about an hour from London Victoria station to Brighton.

Boat

There are no direct boat services to Brighton, but it is possible to get a ferry from Dieppe in France to Newhaven, which is about 12 kilometers away from Brighton. From Newhaven, there are regular bus and train services to Brighton. However, this option may not be the quickest or most convenient way to get to Brighton, as it involves multiple modes of transport.

Bus

There are several bus companies that run services to Brighton from other cities in the UK, such as National Express and Megabus. The best way to get to Brighton by bus is to book a direct service, as this will be quicker and more convenient. The bus station in Brighton is located in Pool Valley, which is in the city centre.

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