Exclusive Review: A Cozy Gem: The Sussex Arms, East Street, Brighton

Nestled at the bustling heart of East Street, The Sussex Arms offers a welcome retreat with a classic British pub feel and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere. Whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or settling down for an evening with friends, it strikes a satisfying balance between traditional charm and lively city-centre energy. The […]

Nestled at the bustling heart of East Street, The Sussex Arms offers a welcome retreat with a classic British pub feel and a warm, unpretentious atmosphere. Whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or settling down for an evening with friends, it strikes a satisfying balance between traditional charm and lively city-centre energy.

The interior has recently had a tasteful refurb giving the pub a fresh yet authentic look—though I will say the green they’ve chosen is one of the worst colours ever! Still, it doesn’t take away from the cozy atmosphere. There’s a great selection of well-kept ales and lagers on tap, alongside a solid range of spirits and a decent wine list. Prices are reasonable for central Brighton, and the bar staff are some of the friendliest I’ve ever encountered—always welcoming and attentive even during busy times, they are even understanding towards customers when they are informing customers that they can’t serve them. It’s nice to see professional and a well managed team.

One of the Sussex Arms’ standout features is its outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching on East Street when the weather allows. Inside, there’s plenty of space to find a comfortable corner to relax and enjoy your drink.

Food-wise, it’s classic pub grub done right—think hearty burgers, crispy fish and chips, and generous portions. Nothing fancy, but reliably tasty and good value.

They’ve also recently added TVs, which could go either way—hopefully they won’t start showing the football, which in my opinion would take away from the laid-back charm that makes this venue so special.

Reviews Score: 4 out of 5

Reviewers Verdict : I personally love this bar, but obviously, my fondness won’t distract me from an honest review: in a city packed with trendy bars and themed pubs, the Sussex Arms stays true to the traditional pub experience. It’s exactly the kind of place you’ll want to return to when you just need a decent drink, good company, and a comfortable spot to watch the world go by.