Traditional pubDitchling Road

Jolly Brewer

Ditchling Road local famous for its Tuesday quiz

6.7/10

Local score

No. 64 of 212 pubs & bars on r/brighton, from 21 locals across 19 threads.

100% would send a mate. Still recommended in 2025.

A well-loved independent pub on Ditchling Road, best known for landlord Matt's excellent Tuesday quiz, folk sessions and an upright piano, with regulars calling it one of Brighton's warmest, most welcoming boozers. It's said to have turned around from a rough past into its current cosy state, though a few mention the interior can smell.

Go for
A proper pub quiz and folk music
Heads up
Interior reportedly smells, though opinions on that are divided

What locals say

Gotta get us started with the following: The Jolly Brewer, Ditching Road. The Farm Tavern, Farm Road. The Bevy, Hillside (truly the most independent pub in Brighton). I have to include the Basketmakers and the Poets Ale and Smokehouse. I know they're in a little group but it is independent and truly local, but this is the place to correct me if I am wrong.
u/pink_brownies_, 202524 upvotes“Independent Pubs of Brighton (and surrounds) MEGA THREAD”
The Jolly Brewer on Ditching Road has an upright piano and space to film, not seen it played though so not sure if it still works. Hope your filming goes well!
u/Nilla_Puff, 20258 upvotes“Piano pubs in btown”
Jolly Brewer. Used to be a cesspit, new owner gradually tidied it up and expanded space while still maintaining the "old-school community pub" look and vibe.
u/FoldedTwice, 20253 upvotes“Help settle an argument about pub refurbs”
…off the beaten track but worth making a trip - The Watchmakers. Near Hove station so you could even catch a train there for an added bit of holiday fun. Takes 3 mins or something stupid like that. Check it’ll be open first. Excellent if you can grab an outside seat. - The Jolly Brewer. No good for street drinking but nice beer and a weird interior. Smells. - The Setting Sun. Up a big hill, Nice garden with a view of the city from a rare angle. Can’t think of another pub that has this. Beer will be whatever but you’ll probably find a Sussex ale at least. The assertions that any pub…
u/kasme, 20241 upvotes“Recommend mellow pubs?”

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