Best Bars In Brighton

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 3rd July 2026

One of the most vibrant party places in the UK, our seaside town is brimming with charming drinking holes. From beachfront hideaways to gorgeous rooftop terraces flaunting bevvies galore, there are plenty of great places to discover. So, what are you waiting for? Check out our list of the best bars in Brighton.




Alcotraz Brighton: Cell Block One-Three

@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Brighton on Various dates from Wednesday 5th August 2026

Standing out from the crowd in Brighton's jam-packed nightlife scene, Alcotraz: Cell Block One Three is an immersive cocktail experience like no other. Dare to smuggle your spirits past the warden and you'll be rewarded with libations handcrafted for you by long-serving inmates.

The Bootlegger Brighton

Two for £14 Cocktails Exclsuive for DMN and 1 other offer

One of the best watering holes in the town thanks to its Prohibition-inspired decor and party attitude, The Bootlegger is the place to head if live music or killer drinks are your jam. Better yet, you can book into a bottomless brunch complete with platters and unlimited Tangy Flappers.

This summer season, they're serving six exclusive cocktails, from the Altos Paloma Picante to the Honey and Ginger Penicillin, all available until 11pm every day for £9.50 each.

Bohemia

Searching for the best cocktail bars in Brighton? Bohemia is always high on our list. This independent hub in the heart of The Lanes is a wonderland of fancy flavours, smoking theatrics and gorgeous interiors. There's even a hidden Veuve Clicquot rooftop terrace for summertime slurps.

There's plenty going on here too, from cocktail masterclasses to live jazz and DJ sets. Hungry? Tuck into the likes of baked camembert with caramelised onion chutney, sirloin steaks or grilled sea bass.

Drift

If you're on the lookout for relaxed beachside vibes, fresh coastal flavours and chilled cocktails with a view, get on over to Drift. Right on the seafront next to the iconic i360, this place brings the spirit of Ibiza to Brighton.

Outside, the rooftop terrace offers sweeping views over the sea, perfect for golden hour drinks, sharing plates and long summer evenings. Inside, it's just as stylish, with natural textures and ocean tones creating a calm and effortlessly cool atmosphere.

Sidewinder

A casual lounge bar situated in the heart of Kemptown, Sidewinder is the ideal hideaway for laidback vibes with pals. Showcasing bohemian flair, this watering hole is known for quirky mismatched vintage furnishings, alongside two pretty beer gardens for those summertime antics.

Shelter Hall

A cool bar and food hall right on the seafront, Shelter Hall comes with multiple floors of  indoor space, as well as both a balcony and spacious terrace for alfresco dining. They host seven rotating kitchens and two bars, with a secret bar that often hosts live gigs too.

Tuck into everything from Sussex wagyu burgers from 3Bros to juicy Lost Boys Chicken and cheesy slices by VIP Pizza. Grab a beer or cocktail while you're at it, and soak up views of the beach.

Rumour Has It

 From carefully crafted cocktails to a small but considered food menu, this tucked-away Lanes spot offers a Mediterranean-inspired aperitivo experience you won't forget.

With vinyl setting the soundtrack and independent artwork to admire, Rumour Has It is one of Brighton's best bars for anyone who wants quality drinks, a warm welcome, and a space built for spending time in with friends. 

Voya Brighton

Tucked away on North Road, VOYA is one of Brighton's most stylish, intimate spots for a night out. Inspired by classic brasseries and bistros, it blends exceptional food, carefully balanced drinks, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit feel like your favourite house party (with great cocktails). 

With a curated menu of seasonal small plates and locally sourced ingredients, alongside thoughtful wines, spirits, and cocktails, VOYA is perfect for casual evenings with friends or a relaxed dinner that doesn't skimp on style.

The Golden Pineapple of Ship Street

Boasting the city's largest selection of Mezcal and Tequila, with more than 100 bottles to choose from, it's safe to say that The Golden Pineapple is a winner for agave fans. This intimate space is filled with exposed brick walls and rustic wooden furniture, ideal for date night.

As well as their spirit collection, you can expect a wide variety of cocktails on offer here. Plus, Papa Dumpling are on hand with tasty small plates in the kitchen.

Bar Medusa

Something of a sanctuary for cocktail lovers, Medusa is all moody lighting, fairly lights and soothing soundtracks. Its drinks list is just as effortlessly cool, packing in fiery mezcal creations, classic martinis and playful tipples like the Choconut Milkshake.

Just the right kind of cosy, it's perfect for date nights, catchups with friends or a sport of solo sipping.

Cut Your Wolf Loose

Cut Your Wolf Loose brings a heavy helping of Brighton cool to traditional whisky culture. We're talking curious concoctions, bold interiors and laid back vibes all round.

Trafalgar Street's cult favourite bar serves up over 300 whiskies from around the world, including rare single cask releases, plus whisky cocktails and local craft beers. It doesn't matter whether you're a malt nerd or total newcomer, there's a tipple, tasting or masterclass with your name on it here.

Clementine & Co

A vibrant independent cocktail bar in the heart of Brighton, Clementine & Co. is perfect for shopping trip pit stops, lunchtime tipples and sophisticated nights on the town. The drinks list is a work of art, packing in mojitos, martinis and classic cocktails alongside signature serves, fine fizz and worldly wine. 

Get down here any time Sunday to Thursday or Fridays until 7pm and it gets even better. Happy Hour is in force and all cocktails are just £8.95 a pop.

Curio Cafe & Bar

Just off Preston Circus, Curio Café and Bar is one of Brighton's all-day neighbourhood gems. By day it's a laid-back café serving flat whites, baked goods and flavour-packed sandwiches; by night it transforms into a lively bar with over 30 wines by the glass, craft beers and impeccably executed cocktails.

The space is warm and welcoming, with stylish interiors and a community vibe that makes it perfect for casual catch-ups, solo escapes or spontaneous evenings.