Real ale pubQueensbury Mews

The Hole In The Wall

Tiny craft pub, cheap cask ale, cult Buckfast Negroni

9.3/10

Local score · A local favourite

No. 8 of 212 pubs & bars on r/brighton, from 66 locals across 60 threads.

99% would send a mate. Still recommended in 2026.

The Hole in the Wall is repeatedly named one of Brighton's best pubs - a genuinely tiny, honestly-priced craft/real-ale spot where landlord Jim knows his beer (three pints of cask for around a tenner) and the signature Buckfast Negroni has a cult following. Its size means it's not ideal for large groups, but it's a favourite for a quiet, characterful pint.

Go for
Cheap real ale in a tiny pub
Heads up
Very small, not great for large groups

What locals say

…on their instagram, a fridge full of alcohol free beers or just soft drinks if you prefer and a very friendly, colourful selection of local customers from all walks of life. Other friendly venues that are good for meeting people with a decent alcohol free selection include The Hole In The Wall, The Evening Star, Cowley Club and The Rook.
u/whataplagueyouare, 202531 upvotes“Bars ok with non drinkers?”
Hole in the wall is an honestly priced craft pub. Can usually get 3 pints of cask under/around a tenner. Jim the landlord really knows his beer too. Not ideal for large groups, it's called the hole in the wall for a reason.
u/lastchickenintheshop, 202230 upvotes“What are the cheapest pubs/places to drink in Brighton?”
I always take Brighton newcomers to look around Snoopers Paradise ! Can’t think of any cheap lunch spots off top, but you could grab a pint at the very charming Hole In The Wall pub located near the seafront as well :)
u/whothewildonesare, 20248 upvotes“Day trip tomorrow to Brighton! Ideas what to do in a day?”
Every one is saying the hole in the wall. It’s a Bloody shit hole with terrible beer and awful staff. And a very small amount of seats. . . . Only one of those statements are correct. Still though please don’t go.
u/Starlings_under_pier, 20244 upvotes“Backstreet Ale Houses”

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