Cosy Pubs In Brighton

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By Kiera Chapman • Editor Food, drink and nightlife specialist with 8+ years in journalism, including bylines at The Sunday Times and Marie Claire. Last updated on 2nd November 2026

Searching for an escape from the torrential rain and icy seaside winds? In a town filled with toasty watering holes, you're never far from a boozy haven.

So whether you're after somewhere with an extensive beer selection, delicious food or just a few squishy sofas to slump on this winter, take a gander at our choices of the best cosy pubs in Brighton.

Find out more about how we created our guide in our Editorial Policy. 

Cosy Brighton Pubs: Best Of




3. The Wick Inn

Brimming with vintage knick-knacks and classic charm, The Wick Inn is one of the cosiest pubs in Brighton thanks to its unique interiors. Snuggle up with a beer on one of their tables and enjoy an easygoing night of chat, banter and boozing in town. 

4. The Prince George

Craft brews, plush seats and plant-based nosh? They're all on offer at The Prince George. Named by PETA as one of the top 10 veggie restaurants in the country, this spot is perfect for anyone looking to escape the bustle of town and enjoy a cosy night out in Brighton.

6. The Royal Sovereign

One of the best pubs with open fires in Brighton, The Royal Sovereign also has a stonker of a happy hour. From their classic choice of rainy day chomps and rotation of fine ales to the homely crannies and eccentric decorations, this beauty promises to cater to your every need. 

8. The Kemp

The perfect spot to hole up in on a wintry evening or a rainy afternoon, The Thomas Kemp offers a great range of beers and wines as well as a top-notch food menu. Take a date here to enjoy laid-back vibes or pop over on a Sunday for a mouthwatering roast.

20. Fiddler's Elbow

Home to one of the cheapest pints of Guinness in town, Fiddler's Elbow is known for pairing its pints with hearty pub fare. This cosy little boozer boasts a central island bar circled by emerald green booths and vintage trinkets, making for a charming atmosphere to add to the classic Irish hospitality.

21. The Dorset

If you're searching for that snug watering hole to hunker down in near North Laine, The Dorset's mismatched chairs and roaring winter fire are calling. These guys are also a dab hand at fresh seafood dishes, such as their to die for fish pie and moules marinière.

23. Open House

Open House knows how to get creative with its space. From exposed brick and dark hues to a grand mosaic behind the bar, this spot is stylish while retaining a traditional pub feel. Better yet? There's a mouthwatering menu of delicious pub classics, like beer-battered haddock with chunky chips, toasted sandwiches (our eyes are on the Reuben) and pizzas.

32. The Basketmakers

If your idea of a perfect pint involves a crackling fire, creaky floorboards and a sense of instant welcome, The Basketmakers Arms delivers. This cosy North Laine pub has all the hallmarks of a classic Brighton retreat: friendly staff, dog- and family-friendly vibes, and a bar stocked with cask ales, wine, spirits and single malts.

With a menu of hearty mains like ham, egg and chips, sausage & mash and the basketmakers burger, plus small plates to share, and you've got the perfect cosy night out, whether it's for a post-work pint or a relaxed weekend dinner.

33. The Cricketers

With an open fire, cosy bar and plush banquette seating, The Cricketers gives you the warm welcome of a traditional pub. Its many pumps serve up local ales, alongside well-loved lagers and ciders.

Over on the menu, there's pies, burgers, fish and chips, and plenty more pub grub classics. Get down here on a Sunday and giant roasts will see that you leave well fed.

34. The Lewes Road Inn

Behind The Lewes Road Inn's bold blue front, its exposed brick, wooden floors and cosy corners make for a warm and welcoming traditional pub. With student discounts, games for kids and treats for pups on offer, it's got the whole of the local community at its heart.

There's all sorts of reasons to stop by, from live music and DJs at the weekend to open mic nights and pub quizzes right through the year. The menu will see that you stick around, packing in all sorts, from dirty fries to burgers and pizzas.

35. Farm Tavern Hove

A welcoming gastro pub in Hove, The Farm Tavern is a top choice for cosy drinks all year round. This is a rustic, candlelit space filled with comfortable furniture and simple wooden decor - where you'll often find fun events like drag bingo and DJ sets.

There's a cracking selection of drinks on offer, from locally sourced beers to gins and wines from Butler's Wine Cellar. Hungry? The kitchen is cooking up all sorts of delicious Eastern European fare, alongside stellar Sunday roasts.

36. The Prince Albert

Located close to the station, The Prince Albert is a charming local boozer with a friendly vibe and a cosy fireplace. The interior is reminiscent of a welcoming living room, and there's an intimate space for live music upstairs.

Expect a regular lineup of gigs, with musical memorabilia lining the walls. Of course, there are plenty of great beers on offer too.

37. The Prestonville Arms

Tucked away between Seven Dials and Brighton Station, The Prestonville Arms is warm, welcoming and packed with pub charm. Established in 1867, it's had plenty of time to get things right.

Expect all the best touches of a British boozer, from proper pub grub to rotating beers and happy hour cocktails. There's plenty to keep you entertained here too. We're talking free darts, pub quizzes and a toad table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Brighton pubs have real open fires for winter?

Many of Brighton and Hove’s traditional freehouses feature working wood burners and open fires during the cooler months. Pubs located around the North Laine, Kemptown, and Seven Dials regularly light their fireplaces throughout autumn and winter. If a working fireplace is essential for your visit, it’s worth ringing ahead or checking the venue's social pages before setting off, as fire usage can depend on daily weather conditions.

Do I need to book a table for Sunday roast at a cosy Brighton pub?

Yes, advance bookings are strongly recommended for Sunday roasts across Brighton and Hove, particularly between October and April. Traditional neighbourhood favourites and award-winning gastro pubs often fill their peak lunch slots (12.30pm to 3.30pm) weeks in advance. While some classic backstreet boozers hold back a few tables for walk-ins, reserving online in advance is the safest way to guarantee a cosy table.

Are traditional cosy pubs in Brighton dog-friendly?

Brighton is renowned as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the UK, and the vast majority of traditional pubs welcome four-legged guests with open arms. Most cosy pubs allow dogs in the main bar areas and snugs—often keeping water bowls and treats by the counter. However, dining rooms or small mezzanine areas may have restrictions during busy food services, so checking venue policies on DesignMyNight before arriving with your dog is ideal.

Where can I find cosy pubs in Hove for a quieter drink?

If you want to escape the busy central Lanes, Hove offers a fantastic selection of laid-back neighbourhood pubs and historic inns tucked along Church Road and quiet residential side streets. Pubs in Hove tend to be slightly more spacious, offering relaxed snug seating, exceptional food menus, and a quieter, local feel while still retaining classic period charm.