PERFECT SPOT

TO START YOUR SUMMER? HERE ARE OUR PICKS FOR THE TOP 10 BEER GARDENS IN BRIGHTON & HOVE.

HOBGOBLIN - LONDON ROAD

Starting off with a tried-and-true frontrunner, Hobgoblin boasts a bright and lively beer garden, confirmed by none other than the Brighton Bartenders Association, who named it ‘Brighton’s Best Beer Garden’ in 2017, and with good reason. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, look no further, because there’s a pretty extensive pizza menu on offer, the perfect accompaniment for your pint. And don’t worry about getting bored, there’s even an escape room, should you find yourself looking for a new activity. You’ll find it full most evenings; it’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon or begin a night on the town. With plenty of space, whether it’s just a few of you or many more, Hobgoblin is a very ‘Brighton’ spot to grab a drink or two.

SIDEWINDER- KEMPTOWN

Sidewinder comes in strong with two beer gardens alongside its funky interior, making it a great location both in the daytime and evenings. With a vast and constantly changing selection of craft beers as well as a whole host of interesting spirits to try, Sidewinder makes for another perfect night out setting. If you’re in Kemptown and looking for a somewhere comfortable to spend an afternoon, this is the place to be. Another fantastic representation of the eclectic energy Brighton has to offer.

THE LION & LOBSTER - CITY CENTRE

A cosy, and some may even say challenging pub to navigate, the beer garden and terrace at The Lion & Lobster is a snug space in the centre of town where you’ll find craft beers, cocktails and shots we bet you’ve never heard of. As you make your way through the maze, you’ll find the multiple-storied building includes a pub, restaurant and the terrace, so you won’t be at a loss when choosing where to sit. Although it is small, the two floors of the terrace will keep you comfortable, with plenty of seating for you and your group. If you’re on the hunt for some traditional pub grub or a modern rendition of the classics, The Lion & Lobster has you covered.

By Noor Sheikh

THE OCULIST - THE LANES

A more recent addition to the Brighton bar scene, The Oculist is located in The Lanes, and is a modern yet casual bar with a beautifully lit roof garden. The menu features all your favourite cocktails, as well as some bespoke Brighton specials, along with the extensive selection of spirits, wines and beer. You’re spoilt for choices when you enter The Oculist, whether it’s for food or drinks; their Sunday roast options cover all bases, with the daily menu taking inspiration from East Asia. Take a seat on the top floor of the garden for an airy, sun-filled experience, or sit one floor below and for an intimate drink or two. The Oculist is also a popular host for many DJs, so keep an eye out for new music events every month.

THE GRAND CENTRAL - NEAR BRIGHTON STATION

The Grand Central sits in an ideal spot directly next to Brighton railway station, so whether you’re just visiting for the day or you’re a local looking to venture out of the city centre, this may be the right place for you. The inside shows off a traditional pub atmosphere with hints of modern design thrown in, and the roof garden is the perfect complement. An open and colourful space in what may seem like a cramped area of town, the garden at The Grand Central makes for a quaint escape from the hustle and bustle of the train station. If you prefer to people watch, take a seat on the tables on the pavement outside the pub, and get a pint in while you take in the buzzing atmosphere. During the summer months, The Grand Central hosts a number of events, including dance classes and live music, so don’t pass up the opportunity to learn something new, and reward yourself with a drink while you cool off on the terrace.

LE PUB (THE PARIS HOUSE) - HOVE

Less of a garden and more of an outdoor space, Le Pub, also known as The Paris House, offers live music nearly every day of the week, from open mic nights to jazz quartets. Here, you’ll find patrons drinking and dancing on the streetcorner, and you’ll feel transported to summer, no matter what time of the year it is. Le Pub sticks to adored classics when it comes to drinks, so you’ll have no trouble finding something you know and love. Take a glance at the fully French menu, grab a drink and sit outside in Le Pub’s charming adaptation of a beer garden.

BLOCK - KEMPTOWN

With its bright pink walls and artistic vibe, Block in Kemptown is a contemporary bar with an easy-going outdoor area. Totally open-air and with zero obstruction, the garden at Block is the ideal spot to bask in the sun or enjoy a cocktail in the colder months. With a focus on natural wood and vibrant colours, you’ll feel at ease in their so-called ‘sanctuary’. Browse their meticulously devised wine list, or menu of carefully crafted cocktails, and even grab something to eat after being drawn in by their charcoal oven. Don’t be fooled by its small facade, because the experience you’re in for is one to be excited about.

THE OPEN HOUSE - ROUND HILL

For a little trip slightly out of town, hop on the train to London Road railway station and visit The Open House, a lively pub with a warm atmosphere which is sure to have you wanting to stay for ‘just one more’. A great place to grab a cocktail or one of Brighton’s favourite beers, and relax on a cool summer evening. The huge beer garden is made for comfort, with heating and covers for the colder months, but don’t worry, it’s in the perfect position to make the most of the sun whenever it can.

THE PARK VIEW - PRESTON PARK

Image by Park View Staff via Instagram

The Park View, as the name suggests, is in the picturesque Preston Park area, and boasts a beer garden with not one, not two, not even three, but four levels. Enjoy a pint during the week or if you’re lucky with the weather, try one of their Sunday roasts in the sunshine. The garden is a huge space, welcoming families and large groups, and is perfect if you’re looking for a drink or two away from the city centre. Pop in for a meal or the Park View pub quiz, and celebrate your win in the comfort of one of the many seats in the beer garden.

THE MESMERIST - THE LANES

Last, but not least, The Mesmerist, located just a few minutes from the Brighton seafront. Open for bottomless brunch and evening drinks, The Mesmerist has everything in one place, including two outdoor areas: the roof terrace and the makeshift beer garden on the ground floor, which is ideal if you want to be in the midst of the Brighton nightlife. The variation of live music events adds perfectly to the ambience of the bar, which has become a key spot for partygoers on the weekends. There is always something going on at The Mesmerist, and if the weather allows, sit on the terrace for a break from the commotion of The Lanes and take a few minutes to enjoy the sea breeze.