Craft beer barSt. James's Street

The Black Dove

Dark, cosy cocktail den at the top of Kemptown

8.7/10

Local score

No. 19 of 212 pubs & bars on r/brighton, from 65 locals across 63 threads.

96% would send a mate. Still recommended in 2026.

A moody, low-lit pub/cocktail bar at the far end of St James Street, praised for great drinks, friendly staff and an eclectic vinyl DJ soundtrack. The gothic, opium-den downstairs and comfy couches make it a favourite for dates and late nights, though it doesn't serve food and fills up fast.

Go for: Date night with cocktails and a DJ
Heads up: No food served; arrive early to grab a table

What locals say

The Black Dove, at the far end of St James St. A great independent pub, get there early to grab a table and enjoy great drinks and an eclectic soundtrack. Check their website or socials for the DJ.

u/brighton2london, 202430 upvotes“best bars/pubs for dates?”

For pubs The Black Dove, Hand in Hand and Brighton Rocks are my faves. All really nice. The Open Bakery is great. I feel like we don't have as many great restaurants as we should, but the Peruvian place (Kusikuy or similar) is good if that's still open.

u/TeamPangloss, 20267 upvotes“The best of Kemptown - your favourite shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants?”

…a bit of googling! Last thing I'd say activities wise is Globalls at the Marina could be a laugh (especially post-pub), the mini golf course in itself isn't anything crazy but it's jungle/animal themed and obviously glow in the dark so could be something your gf would enjoy :) the Black Dove pub in Kemptown is decorated in a very 'Orient Express'/jungle exploration/exotic (for lack of a better word) aesthetic (think lots of plants, dark wood, candle light and lots of antiques) and I always felt like I've stepped in another decade when going in so highly recommend as well!

u/smileymariney, 20236 upvotes“Nerdy stuff to do in Brighton?”

…pubs, with food, alcohol free selection and are comfortable to go and enjoy on your own: Evening Star ( food served Thursday to Sunday) The Brick (same as above) William The 4th The Hole In The Wall (great pub but no food) The Prince Albert ( same as above) Star and Garter The Black Dove (also no food but one of my favourite pubs) Hope this helps!

u/whataplagueyouare, 20246 upvotes“suggest pubs for someone like me”

Ranked from 21,200 r/brighton comments. Summaries are written by AI from what locals said; quotes are word for word. Not affiliated with Reddit. Back to the guide