Bored of the same old drinking destinations? We know the feeling. Ditch your usual watering hole for something of the covert variety with our selection of off-the-radar joints. From classified speakeasies with a 1920s feel about them to illicit, quirky haunts and concealed cocktail dens, we have rounded up the best secret bars in Brighton. Hush hush.
Grand Central may be something of a drinking landmark, but did you also know that it houses one of the top hidden bars in Brighton? Sitting pretty above the pub, The Nightingale Room is an illicit space offering lashings of gin and slinky live cabaret. Oh, yes.
Free bottle of house wine or prosecco when booking a roast for 6 or more guests!
Enter The Mesmerist's doors and head upstairs to The Flipside: an illicit retro-themed haunt where you'll find kitsch interiors along with 70s-inspired decor. But it's not just looks that'll win you over, as mixologists are serving signature concoctions like a Lemon Sherbet, made with Limoncello, and a vodka-based Club Tropicana.
The entrance to The Bootlegger is totally unassuming, but once you step inside you'll be welcomed into a cosy speakeasy-style bar playing jazz, swing, blues and rock 'n' roll. Found on Brighton's seafront, this quirky venue will have you dancing the night away to DJs downstairs as you sip on mouthwatering concoctions.
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@ Alcotraz Penitentiary: Brighton on Various dates from Thursday 26th March 2026
After the best secret cocktail bars in Brighton? Then head below street level, where you'll find immersive experience Alcotraz: Cell Block One Three. Smuggle in spirits past a hawk-eyed warden and you'll be treated to an evening of delicious bootleg-style sips.
On first encounter, The Wick looks like your standard Hove boozer. However, take a trip upstairs to find a 20s-themed speakeasy. Thanks to Prohibition-style decor and intimate vibes, this date night den is up there with the best bars in Brighton.
The Gin Tub has made it onto our secret Brighton bars and clubs list for a reason. Home to cocktail pop-ups and Instagram-worthy installations aplenty, it's the place to get those snaps in, all while you sink juniper-fuelled drinks or rum-laced concoctions.
If you can manage to find the secret door, you'll be rewarded with a den of cool vintage photos, Champagne-laced cocktails and French charm. Whether you're popping in for a sultry date night or a catch-up with pals, North Laine's L'Atelier Du Vin is bound to impress.
It might be a bit of an effort to find Twisted Lemon, but the work is all completely worth it as it's one of the best bars in Brighton's The Lanes. Sandwiched between two buildings, this clandestine gem whips up a storm; from banoffee pie martinis to caipirinhas.
