Brighton's popular neighbour, Hove, may be the lesser-known of the two towns, but what it lacks in notoriety, it makes up for with its welcoming atmosphere and perpetual charm. While Brighton boasts lively beachfront bars and bright lights, big city vibes, Hove comes out top when it comes to independent pubs and cosy watering holes. Whether you're looking for a buzzing Friday night venue with friends, or somewhere to hole up with a good book, check out our top picks of the best pubs in Hove.
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If you're looking for places to drink in Hove, then add The Stoneham to your list. With open fires, cosy sofas and a gorgeous heated garden, this is one that'll keep you occupied all year long. Expect pizzas, burgers and classic pub nosh alongside a wide range of ales, lagers and wines.
The team behind The Old Albion promise gin, beer and atmosphere, and we can't argue with that. Complete with one of the best Sunday roasts in Hove, a sunny beer garden and a pup-friendly policy, this place ticks all our good pub boxes. We'll meet you at the bar.
Nestled in the centre of Hove's Poets Corner, Ancient Mariner is a traditional pub with quirky touches and a lovely beer garden. Head on over to enjoy a range of tasty tipples and East Asian-inspired fare, not to mention quizzes, happy hour deals, live music and open mic nights.
Whether you're looking for somewhere to watch sport in Hove, a cosy Sunday roast or just a freshly poured pint, Blind Busker is a great place to start. The modern boozer boasts one of the warmest welcomes in town, with prices that won't break the bank either.
The Brunswick is a trendy Hove pub that couples as a live music venue. Head over to tuck into delicious burgers washed down with plenty of craft beer, or even enjoy a cracking performance from up-and-coming local talent.
One of Hove's most historic pubs, the Freemasons Tavern is hard to miss with its gold exterior and eye-catching ceiling to floor windows. Not only is this place the Masonic capital of Sussex, it also just happens to be a brilliant, affordable boozer too. A buzzing venue with live music and daily events and deals, the tavern is the perfect pit stop after a day on the seafront. Take up the challenge and tackle the 'gargantuan roast', if you dare.
This distinctively emerald green Victorian boozer oozes kitsch charm. Serving up a selection of real ales and Thai food, it's a centre point for locals and visitors alike. The real showstopper, however, appears when you ascend the spiral staircase to find Hove's very own secret speakeasy cocktail bar, serving up strong Manhattans and seriously 1920s vibes.
The Robin Hood's comfy armchairs and friendly staff make it one of Hove's cosiest pubs. You wouldn't be forgiven for feeling like this watering hole is just an extension of your own living room (just with a few more people, and a far superior selection of board games). The team behind The Robin Hood donate all profits to charity, and arrange free music and street festivals for the local community, giving you every excuse to devour their homemade pizzas.
This Aladdin's cave of a watering hole is a firm favourite with Hove locals. The Bee's Mouth is a fully independent pub where there is never a dull moment. This rabbit-warren venue has a jam-packed weekly schedule of free cinema screenings, live music and life drawing sessions. Come for the extensive Belgian beer selection and stay for... well... everything else.
Situated on the corner of Belfast Street, this Hove gastropub is serving up a slice of the sea with an innovative all-day seafood menu. With daily changing specials and a specially curated selection of beers and wines, you could easily while away an afternoon in this boozer's cosy yet contemporary setting.
A French-themed pub in the heart of Hove, this place serves up spirit and charm by the bucket. With live music every day of the week from the region's freshest musical talent and a bistro-style menu, this is the ideal Hove spot for a relaxed weeknight with friends, or a romantic date night avec ton amour.
The team behind Hove Place are redefining 'pub grub'- think wagyu beef macaroni, and build-your-own cheese and charcuterie boards. Not only is the grub good, it's also ethically sourced, with the food miles of each dish clearly displayed on the menu. Stop by in the summer months to enjoy an Aperol in the Italian-style terrace out the back.
This seemingly unassuming pub on the corner of Lower Market Street packs a punch when it comes to food. Serving up veggie Indian street food Wednesday through to Sunday at affordable prices, there's no chance of a bum deal when visiting this packed-out pub.
Looking like it's straight outta' Sussex's rolling hills, The Connaught is a proper country pub (handily situated right in the heart of Hove). Complete with a roaring fire for those cold winter nights, and south-facing garden for the summer months, this place has got you covered whatever the weather. Bonus points for the dog-friendly pub policy.
