please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
On my visit a week ago I ordered a pint of Hophead and the ugly cow behind the bar told me that I shouldn't be drinking it,the new craft beers ( y'know the gunk with shit In it) were the way to go .Now call me old fashioned but In days of yore the customer....sorry client was always right ,It must be nice to know at Partridge Green that your Iconic flagship beer is treated like a turd in a swimming pool by the people you employ, what a mess of a boozer. The levels of cleanliness were none too clever either!1/10
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Cracking pub. A blueprint for many others I’m sure. Simple layout and furnishings. Great choice of beers in keg and cask. The Dark Star APA was - as always - fantastic and the stout I had was lovely too. Nice to see a full range of styles at these times of the hoppy pale beer dominated offerings elsewhere.
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I've been meaning to visit here for some time. I finally got the opportunity in mid-October. Luckily the pre-football rush was over. We may have missed the kick off ourselves. But at least the pub was quieter. It's a lovely little single room boozer, which is fairly basic in character. Dark Star Hophead & American Pale Ale were on. Guests were Fyne Ales Monterey Boulevard, Bristol Beer Factory Mischief & Thornbridge Cocoa Wonderland. Ciders were Seacider Medium & Ascencion Company Pilot. This pub will be near the top of my list to visit next time I'm in Brighton.
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Fantastic choice of real ales and craft beers at reasonable (for London or Brighton) prices. Only downside was the appalling stench in the gents' toilets!
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Somewhat over rated good perhaps but certainly not great.Two of our crowd tried the Thornbridge Kipling it was awful,far too cold and I suspect that it had been forgotten somewhere and was close or over date, fortunately me Hophead was good..Cleanliness doesn't seemto be a priority of any kind,the toilets are awfully shabby and whiff the nasty acrid smell of urine.
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Brighton has a plethora of small pubs and this is one of the best, quiet and unpretentious. The Dark Star range is second to none (apart perhaps from its local rival, Harveys). A must.
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Plenty of ale on tried Dark Star and a cheeky 6% Ruby Mild .
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PWilkins, your comment about the gentleman in the wheelchair is a little ripe coming from you! The last time I was in this pub you were leaning up at the bar telling your "dirty stories", and elbowing a young woman in the face several times to "prove a point". When both myself and the Manchester City fan you mentioned attempted to point out that your behaviour was unacceptable, you threatened to "knock us out with a plank of wood" and proceeded to spit all over the floor and splash IPA everywhere. If anyone needs to learn some manners it is you! Even after the bar staff had refused to serve you, you left saying you were going to "come back with your Renault and run us all over". I think this pub is better off without your attitude, PWilkins.
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Still a good boozer, a little emptier these day's. Decent quality ale and choice. The Pratt in the wheelchair with the Man City crap on needs to learn some manners!
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The Evening Star, what can I say ?
This was pub number 4 and I certainly saved the best for last. I have been told on numerous occasions that this is a must visit but had never been here until now.
As previously mentioned on this site this is the Dark Star tap, with their full range plus some very decent guest ales.
I decided to spend a bit of time here and work my way through some ales I’d never had before. These were Brighton Bier Thirty Three Black @ 3.3%, Dark Star @ Revelation @ 5.7% and my personal favourite Tiny Rebel’s Dirty Stop Out @ 5.0%.
Busy with real drinkers as its a haven and a must tick in Brighton, it’s now firmly on my list and will visit every time I’m in Brighton now.
Music playing at a decent level. There’s also a good range of old bottles of beer on the shelves about the seating areas.
All in all this is a cracking pub and another 10/10 from me.
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An old favourite and alehouse nirvana - a wonderful range of ales is topped by the brilliant Dark Star offerings from just down the road. I was pleasantly served by a bloke who looks like Alexis Taylor from Hot Chip. Only quibble would be the maleness of it all.
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Absolutely superb - just what a real boozer should be, with an amazing selection of interesting well kept beers.
Will certainly be heading here again when I'm next in Brighton
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Back Street pub located 200 yds from the main station.
Excellent range of ales from Dark Star Brewery plus a wide range of guests. Certainly something for everyone's taste and kept in excellent order.
The pub is very popular so seating is limited. However, table sharing is common so don't be afraid to perch yourself at the end of someone elses.
Recommended if in town
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Good session here before seeing the mighty Numan at the Dome. A good selection of beers on draught and keg. I had Waen Blackberry Stout and Dark Star APA while my companion enjoyed the Orchard Pig real cider.
Another pleasurable visit to the Star.
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PhilR: "a great place to use as an alcoholic waiting room"
++
I think one or two of us on this site are well past the waiting stage...
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Decent pub, a bit spit and sawdust which may put off some but a great place to go if beer is your priority. Brodies and Arbor offerings alongside the Dark Star staples this week. A couple of minutes walk (if you are slow) from Brighton station so a great place to use as an alcoholic waiting room.
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American Pale Ale and Hophead both in very good order today. Love this pub, no pretensions. A honest pub with excellent bar staff.
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As always, never dissapoints. Dark Star beers always 100%
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In here on Saturday about noon and a fair crowd in.
This is a must visit if ever in the area.
Has 10 hand pumps 4 for the Dark Star beers.
I had a pint of the Dark Star Summer Solstice for £3.30 which was very nice.
No sight of the offending brew as mentioned by Mr Harwood below.
They did have a Brodies Mild (£3.10 a pint)on one of the hand pulls though.
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Superb range of draught ales and plenty of bottled options as well. If you really feel flash with the cash then you could have a 75cl bottle of Brooklyn Bamboozle for £19.95!
A word of warning - this is not a quiet pub!
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Popped in for a quick pint last saturday. It's certainly one for the ale lovers rather than one for those looking for high end surroundings, but from an ale perspective it was impressive.
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My partner & I went into this delightful drinking establishment when we were on holiday in Brighton and were amazed by all the superb dark star beers that were on. A definite visit to anybody who is interested in real ale. It is just a stone's throw away from the railway station so no need to take the car.
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This pub has deservedly got a reputation as a fine free house but a word of warning. Check the price list when you actually manage to reach the bar.
Brodies Citra is a superb 3.1 abv session beer but here it's in keg or top pressure form which I didn't realise until after I ordered.
I thought I'd misheard the lady behind the bar as it was so noisy but they wanted £5.20p a pint! That's totally unacceptable and uncalled for.
I'm afraid it will be a good while before I visit again.
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This place is amazing. I hope they don't change a thing.
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Great choice of beers & ales here, very reasonably priced considering the location. A varied clientele drink here with a fair few eccentrics propping up the bar drinks, not full of your pretentious types. My only criticism is the interior is a little sterile I can’t understand for the life of me why its not more oldie worldly. They even have some cracking guest lagers on tap, at a reasonable price. If you are into your beer this pub is a must.
scarr - 10 Nov 2012 00:55 |
A real sacred cow of a boozer, but maybe resting on its laurels? Beer is still great but the smell of cleaning products is ever present and this is not a comfortable pub. But when you have this much acclaim why change?
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Good selection of beers and ciders. However, very seedy and smelly; like a second rate student bar. Bar staff a bunch of miseries.
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Broke my duck and visited for the first time yesterday, it will not be my last.
Good old fashion boozer, no pretentions, great beer and plenty of characters.
The background music sounded as thought somebody had taped into my i-pod.
Love it.
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Good beers, nice old fashioned spit-and-sawdust atmosphere, can be cramped when crowded however (20 of us on a works jolly piled in on a Friday afternoon)
Worth a visit though, among the better ones in Brighton.
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Went in here for the first time last week and I really liked it. Great range of guest beers in addition to the Dark Star ones. Will certainly come here again. It's also a basic pub with no frills which is why I liked it.
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It isn't a good night unless you have a blood orange...
A great pub, although I've only been there the once. Not that me not being there means it's not a good pub. Then again I wouldn't want you to think that I make a habit of not going to good pubs. I don't; that is I don't make a habit of not going to good pubs, not, I don't go to good pubs. I do. Oh dear I feel a amngering coming on.
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We always visit this pub when in Brighton - great beer (Dark Star plus guests) good atmosphere and very handy for the train station. This time was no different with good service, fabulous Dark Star Hophead and American Pale Ale and no hassle even though there were rival footie fans in the bar. Highly recommended.
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JPIII
I think that we've all had spectacular nights out like that !
Just one thing. What the hell is 'amngering' ?
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this pub is the greatest was here just the othe day and this mental guy got me to drink all these 10% beer in a contest with him and he keep saying "ha! hussss! ha! ha! husss!" and making me cleink glasses with him and then the fourth or fifth time he did it the glass shatter and I have all thes epieces of broken glass in my hand all mixing wiht the blood and the 10% beer and the charming barmaid wih curly hair punshes the mental guy in the face and drags him out of the door and then coems back and she is covering my hand in antiseptic cream and pulling the bits of broekn glass out of my hand and they do not have bandage so they just wrap it in bar towel and tehn the guy with the dread locks who works behind the bar is laughing because I am trying to have a lemondae to calm myself down and the blood from my hand keeeps drip in the lemonade and I say "I didn't ask for a blood orange!!" and then the nex tthing I know two of the regulas have picke me up and carrying me to the station and on a tran and the next thing I knew I am going past shreham by sea and find myself amngering and dont even know angmering and it takes me another three hours to get to my house in london it was the best night ou I have ahd in ages I will return!!
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This is a relaxing place to come on a Friday night straight from the station, returning to Brighton after a week's work in London. I always used to stop off here with my boyfriend on the way back to his place for a quick pint of cider and a packet of crisps. Pretty chilled out, friendly vibe. Great way to start the evening.
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Fantastic beer range and helpful staff.
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Excellent range of dark star beers available plus others,a must visit when in Brighton.
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was in here last saturday before football. excellent pint of hopshead, quick service considering it was so busy, andoverall very convivial atmosphere.
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As good as ever with 4 from Dark Star and 4 others. The pick of the bunch for us was the American Pale Ale amazingly giving Hophead a run for its taste.
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visited last night, nowt new to report, pub was busy, ale sublime.
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Cracking little pub.
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Magnificent Dark Star ale house with aforementioned breweries beers but some excellent guests. The DS Green Hopped IPA was a particular highlight alongside the kegged Magic Rock west coast pale ale. Bare and basic decor but beer wise this is pretty unbeatable.
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A much anticipated first visit to this Dark Star pub was most enjoyable. Four Dark Star beers, namely Hophead, Original, American Pale Ale and a good strong IPA weighing in at 6.2% were all available and sampled. All were excellent. Three guest beers were available as well as an impressive bottle beer list including beers from Andechs in Bavaria. Just a short stroll from the station and worth missing the train for.
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Sets the standard for real ale in Brighton (and probably further afield as well). The Dark Star ales are excellent and there is also a choice of several foriegn beers on draught. Cider too is readily available. They do food and there's always something to read if you've fogotten your paper. A good mix of customers (not just full of CAMRA types!!) A proper straightforward bozer just a couple of minutes from the station and a "must visit" when in Brighton.
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Good quality beer - Hophead - amid plain wooden benches. The chap next to me gave me his Evening Argus paper so friendly clientele!
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Now this is much more like it! A very decent pub indeed, the facade may be unimpressive and the decor very basic with wooden bench style seating attached to the walls and bare wood throughout, but it is very welcoming and has a good atmosphere. More importantly, or at least as importantly, it is an absolute treasure trove for the beer connessieur! As you might expect the beers from the Dark Star brewery which owns the place are in very good nick and there is a good selection (The Espresso Stout in particular was gorgeous as was The American Pale Ale), but that is just the tip of the iceberg as the extensive range of bottle beers means that there should be something to suit all tastes. Service is very good and the prices are very reasonable. If you visit Brighton or live in the area, and you love good beer, this needs to be a regular port of call for you. Can't wait to return.
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AT LAST! A pub in Brighton that knows how to keep and serve real ale. Thank God, I thought I was gonna have to move back to Wolverhampton!
All the other pubs that claim to offer fine ales in the area please, please come here and see how its done. You will notice that nearly every customer is drinking the ale - because its lovely and how the brewer intended it to taste and look.
I have friends abroad in places like Spain, Australia, NZ and I am always telling them about English ale being the best in the world and not to keep drinking lager type beer. They all say that they have tried it but don't like it but if you ask them where they have tried it they say London and sometimes Brighton - no wonder they think its horrible.
Thank you Evening Star. Literally the guiding light. (sunburst was particularly good).
The Basketmakers is good too.
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We have been meaning to visit for some time and finally made it yesterday. A far better pub than The Partridge with an excellent range of beers, all well kept. In addition to the Dark Star and Belgian offerings, Magic Rock Human Canonball was dangerously infectious. Enjoyed talking to a gentleman from Bounemouth waiting for his lift home!
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Best beer of the day by far,as we expected.Dark star Hophead and Sunburst plus Thornbridge Wild Swan were mindblowingly good. the pub itself is very good if not a bit studenty at times,you could easily spend the day here but would have trouble getting home afterwards.
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Heaving on Saturday evening after a home match with many drinkers outside. Still a good atmosphere inside although packed. Very good pint of Hophead at a very reasonable price. Another Brighton pub which has not changed for the worse since my previous visit some years earlier. It is indeed good that such hostelries can still be found.
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Loads of ales dominated of course by Dark Star but other micros as well. Good range from light to black. So good places like this are still around
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refurb done. ale sublime. crammed for a tue night due to brighton playing at home.
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In on 9th August and as good as ever!
Dark Star Citra was outstanding.
Shutting for refurb on 14th for 1 week I beleive.
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Oh yeah, nearly forgot, COUNT YOUR CHANGE PEOPLE. I nearly got diddled out of a fiver today.
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Something wasn't quite right here. Popped in at lunchtime today, same as loads of times before. Hardly anyone in and the Hophead wasn't too good, flat and less flavour than usual. Ordered a cheese baguette as usual and played hunt the cheese, compared with previous visits where the cheese was in chunks, rather than thin slivers. Next time I eat here the Devil will be using ice skates to get to the office and I'm not too certain about a return for a beer either. Plenty of other good places around. Probably migrate to the Basketmakers.
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Loads of customers getting through lots of beers means the beer's always fresh, and what with a great selection too it really is a great pub.
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The only negative I have on this paradise is that it takes so long for one to get home after visiting. Last weekend it took me three hours via train to get to Eastbourne, not bad I suppose, when I was actually attempting to get to London Bridge!
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Best pub in Brighton and a joy to see all those lovely Dark Star beers and the kriek on draft as well as some excellent but lethal cyders.
If i could stay in this pub for the rest of my drinking days and die face down in the slops tray of Dark Star Espresso ale I would be very happy.
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Haven't been a big fan of this place - probably residual memories of how unpleasant it was when full of smokers, however, it's been the best pub on our last two jolly's to Brighton. Had a couple of guest beers which were very good but the star (no pun intended) was the American Pale Ale which was wonderful if you like dry, golden beers - reminded me of the Fistful of Hops but not quite as dry.
Definitely deserves an 8.5/10
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Popped in here for a drink or two before getting my train and found it to be a great real ale watering hole! Friendly with a good atmosphere. There must have been getting on for 10 beers available including several from Dark Star.
It was around 6pm and the place was lively. I think a few imbibers had been on the toot all afternoon but there was no nastiness as befits a true real ale pub.
It's not the largest of pubs and would have been even more packed but for the fact it was sunny and several drinkers were sitting outside.
I had two pints but then had to catch my train.
I'll definately return here next time I'm in Brighton.
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Oh BTW, the "CAMRA" mob on the 14th May was us.
Not actually CAMRA just a bunch of beer minded mates on a beer day out in Brighton.
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What can I say that hasn't been said before?
When in Brighton, drink in the Evening Star.
Nuf said.
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the best pub in brighton,,,,,,,,,,,,,sorry the world
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Mmmm. I'm not sure about this pub. On one hand it had very paletable ales at very fair prices. On the other I wasn't keen on the atmosphere with it been full of loud student and grungy types who'd obviously got stuck in throughout the day.
Excellent location. I'd like to try it on a weekday when the festival isn't on and everywhere isn't full of people on the drink all day.
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To think all those years at conferences drinking in garbage holes and this gem was a minute from the station! Great beer, good ambiance (place was packed at 12.00pm on a Saturday, think some Camra mob was using it was the starting point to a beer bus session), massive choice for its size.
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whens the next one???
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I always enjoy coming to this pub ahd having a comple of pints of thjeir fantastic hophead, but I have a remark to make - I am an open minded personand have seen a lot of things over the years, and I am comfortuable with nudity in the approrpiate situations - on several foreign holidays me and my wife have visited such beaches and ejoyed partaking in the sprirt of things, but call me old fashioned if you will but to me a real Ale pub is not a location for nudity!
So you can imagine my shock when I arrived one aftetrnoon and pretty much EVERYONE in the pub was naked, I asked the charming barmaid what was hapepning and she informed me that it was one of their 'naked afternoons', people of all shapes and sizes clutching their pints of ale and standing around in all their glory, I hve to say I felt thoroughhy overdressed, but was not about to start undressing just to be 'part of the flock'.,
I'm no prude but if this sort of activity is gong to be happening it would be good if you coudl inform customers in advanc as you can imainge it was quite a diconcerting situation althouh I did stay for a couple of hopheads anyway. Other tthan that it is a fantastic pub and I'm sorry to gripe about what seem to be a long standing tradition.
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Worth the walk from the Royal Pavilion - very much enjoyed the Hophead,good atmosphere, had to leave just before the Sunday afternoon singer started. Will be back next time we are Brighton
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Paid a pilgrimage to the original home of the Dark Star Brewery. Very busy when I visited, nice range of beers but unfortunately nothing strong and dark from Dark Star. Tried the DS Golden Gate and a Kissingate Black Cherry Mild both well served and ok price. Nice atmosphere would like to visit again to check out the decor when less busy. A definate must visit again!
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in fact have just spoke (sorry asked)the wife if she and the little ones want to go back to brighton again this saturday(for shopping and to play on the pier) and mrs guv says yes,i suppose you will be in the pub? and i said yes please,see you there on saturday!!!!!!!!!!!!! happy days
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agree with the last post,popped in on saturday,and first ever 10out of 10,ticked every box and then some,nothing but praise,why oh why cant every pub look after its customers this way,good ales, good service and leaving feeling that i have made new friends,cant wait to go back again....guv 1
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Yep, this pub's beer selection is bang on....
Couldn't believe my luck,when i visited, to find Great Divide Titan IPA on DRAUGHT, all the way from Denver...
They also had a Flying Dog beer from the tap, and Victory & Odells beers in bottles...
The Dark Star beers were excellent, also..
Overall, a spectacularly good pub, if you love Real Ales or American Hop-heavy Craft Beers
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Amazing, incredible, fantastic, marvelous pub with some of the best beers you'll find this side of the moon! Dark Star's own beers are always on top form, and the guest beers are a great compliment. The bustling atmosphere, friendly staff and proximity to the station are the icing on this beery cake.
If you are in Brighton you should visit. In fact if you've got an orifice you can legally drink through, you should visit!
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yeah what a good pub,if only they could all be this good,we would all think we died and went to heaven...in fact when i die im going there..lol
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Good pub with well kept Dark Star beers. Hophead was as good as you get in London.
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a proper pub with proper beer. Dont worry about the splinters you will get off the furniture, the beer is worth it.
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A proper pub...no pretence.Quality ale,atmosphere like it used to be(drinkers drinking and conversing)
Superb!!!
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We always visit this pub when we are in Brighton (it's very near to the station) for the beer alone. Great range and as usual in fine nick. Dark Star Hophead must be one of the best beers around these days - light; hoppy and very easy to drink.
A good bustling atmosphere in what is after all a proper real ale boozer. Don't expect luxury! (apart from the beer that is)
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Well, as this is a beer site you have to say this is "the" pub in Brighton. Other things like food, seating (or toilets?) you may prefer to go somewhere else. The choice of beers is simply mind-boggling, whether it's ales or belgian beers and they are seved by knowledgable staff. The Dark Star Green Hop IPA (6.5%) on this occasion was "the star" simly superb!
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Went in on way to station, beer not that brilliant tasted stale possibly need a pipe clean.
Barra - 11 Nov 2010 12:45 |
First class gem.
Beer range excellent.
Friendly staff.
Close to station.
Cheap.
Go.
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Best pub in Brighton imho. No sign of "purple sprouting" herbivorous inconsequence here (not that one seeks it!) - just some fine ale in 1st class condition and a proper basic pub atmosphere. Even the urinals were reasonably fresh on last visit.
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Went in for a quick couple on Saturday lunch time with friends. Only downside was the two well oiled chaps loudly holding court in the middle of the bar room and effing and blinding every third word.
Beer was superb as always and service excellent.
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A great pub, handily located down hill from the Brighton main line station. Good beers and a good atmosphere where you feel you could lose an afternoon without any problems at all. Good people watching venue with the adult mag 'n' toys shop across the road. Teenage single mothers with double seat prams, tattoos and fagging it - what do they want in an adult shop? The pub is the place to be and the staff are friendly and courteous serving their excellent array of beers.
Mcloj - 17 Sep 2010 13:44 |
And of course the Dark Star brewery is named after a song by The Grateful Dead.
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Yes, I too always sing the Priest classic when visiting, or even thinking of this fabulous pub.
We thought it might have been features on Sarah Beeny's show "Help My House Is Falling Down", shown on the 7th Sept, but on looking closer at the glimpses, we reckon that's another Brighton pub.
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Great beer as always - shame somebody nicked my umbrella :-(
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Never been, but any pub named after a Priest classic must be worth a visit.
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Loving the Priest lyrics below, always sing the song when I think of this pub. Can't add much to anything below just a brilliant pub. Shame I've only been here twice. Last time they had DS Hylder Blonde and Paradise Weiss as specials and Osset Silver King and a Mauldons beer with the regular DS beers and foreign etc. Super pub.
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I travelled to a distant shore, I felt I had to go
An inner voice had called me there, but why I did not know
I saw the Evening Star rise up, shining out to sea
And now I understand at last what it means.
Evening star I can see the light.
Evening star guiding me so bright.
I used to tempt fate, I couldn't see straight
I faltered through my younger days
Never knowing where I was going, then something helped me penetrate the haze
Evening star I can see the light
Evening star guiding me so bright
Now I am stronger, the haze no longer
Ruins my future destiny
Such inspirations and new sensations
Pull up these string ties chasing me
Evening star I can see the light
Evening star guiding me so bright
I'm home once more, much better for, the things that I have found
Much wiser now, so simple how, each time I turn around
I see the Evening Star rise up, shining out on me
And now I understand at last what it means
What it all means
Evening star I can see the light
Evening star guiding me so bright
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Very bad pub , very very bad pub, And very bad DAD............And STOP sending son home drunk . and me .not so sobber, and missing the train yet again, this place is like a magnet. it has a pulling power that forces you back again, shame on you for having such dame good beers , I HATE HOPHEAD, the more i have. the more i want. feed me . 10 out of 10 for this pub.
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Keep up the good work guys....never had a bad experience here. Love the beers and ever changing guests. Wassail
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Monolulu pudding and pie
Kissed the boys and made them cry
When the girls came out to play
Monolulu ran away
He went to Brighton to be with the boys
Great pub 10/10 EVERY TIME
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I never realised the pub was so close to the station;very pleasant and unexpected surprise.
Superb selection of ales;well presented. Very nice indeed! Highlyrecommended.
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I had a few pints in here this evening. A good range of beers as usual. A convivial atmosphere made even more so by the playing of New Order's greatest hits followed by the whole of Indiscreet by Sparks. It was great to hear both again. Top pub.
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Right with you there Ramone!
This will be the start and finish for a bunch of us next week when we visit Brighton for an afternoon crawl.
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"mainstream drinkers might be a bit put out "
Excellent - count me in then!
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A great example of a pub concentrating on getting the beer right. It doesn't matter that the wooden benches aren't that comfortable, there are no distractions, just a great place to enjoy good ale and conversation.
Floyd - 26 Jun 2010 09:24 |
Unbeatable range on tap... but sadly beatable on atmosphere and likeability.
Top marks for its service for keeping beer interesting but its all a bit cliquey and sterile.
Stunning array of beards and I encountered serious facial hair envy when I was last here.
But that aside - come here for the excellent beer but you wouldnt hang around for the atmosphere.
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Not a comfy pub at all. If you're an ale fan it's probably great, but mainstream drinkers might be a bit put out by the specialist selection.
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Rated as being the best real ale pub in Brighton by its customers, I have to say based on the LIMITED number of pubs I visited they're probably right . A large range of Ales predominated by the Dark star range , but also included a couple of guest ales . Another nice Brighton pub interiorly , which in this genre generally were in pretty good nick.Found the locals fairly friendly and all too willing to pass on local knowledge ,and their experiences. 9/10
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Easily best Pub in Brighton, visited 3 times during a conference, Thornbridge Halcyon on draft, plus 4 from Dark Star all excellent especially the Hop Head, and some very interestin Belgium ,German and USA beers.
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Just spent a week on conference and must say this is the best Pub in town by a mile!!
Superb Ales from Dark Star and very Heady Belgian Beers that need respect !!
Bar Staff very friendly and knowledgable and patrons in the Bar very friendly !!
I would recommend this Ale House to all ! So just go and see for yourself!!
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Beer good, but uncomfortable seating. cash only accepted.claustrophobic.
cliquey.
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Having visited this pub over the last 6 months, quite regularly, I'd recommend it to anyone and everyone, a basic down to earth venue selling a good selection of their own Dark Star beers, and a good selection of others too.
The locals are very friendly and the location of the pub, so close to Brighton station is a plus, well worth missing a train or two!
A seriously good pub, with a great variety in beers, and very attentative staff to boot, what more can you want from a pub???
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Owned by Dark Star so that score's it a six straight through the door. Excellent range of Belgian and other foreign beers on tap and in bottles. 7/10.
Staff who know what they are doing and how to handle and serve beer, plus the usual brightonbillynojobs day time regulars and local working living lunch time crew. Friendly enough to take the mickey as I was on crutches every time I went in there in Feb, Mar and April (coming back from the Hosp it is a good watering hole for the station)
Spotlessly clean too. Seek it out and drink there.
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You must seek out the Evening Star on a trip to Brighton, by far the best pub in town! And there are a few...
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For some strange reason I have never visited the Star despite my many trips to Brighton. This was put right when Bristol Rovers went to town on the 24th.
What can I say apart from the fact that I was well impressed.
Very good selection of beers.
Bar staff were very knowledgeable and friendly.
Great banter between the Brighton and Rovers fans.
All in all a very good pub which I will be visiting many times
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Blah Blah Blah all I ever hear as a fellow publican is the blooming Evening Star in that their Brighton, bloody awful place full of ale drinkers drinking good ale and nothing else. Seriously though Matty and gang keep up the good work, popped in for a quick pint on my 40th and was excellent. 9/10 only losing one mark as coudn't find a seat to sit in and read the paper.
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Still brilliant- great selection of beers well kept. You will struggle to get a seat alot of the time but standing up is small price to pay.
The best pub in the city by a mile, no food, no messing around, just top drawer beer and a great atmosphere.
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darkstar mecca ... i rest my case
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No visit to brighton is complete with out a visit to this brilliant shrine to good beer.... a very special pub.
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Haven't been to this pub but it sounds great, will be dusting the old vespa off and heading down to Brighton soon!
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I found myself in Brighton for the day again and like last time thought it would be nice to have a pint or two before catching a First Capital Unconnected train for the first part of my journey home. After my bad experience with the Queens Head a friend suggested I try the Evening Star around the corner. We went in about 4:00 and ordered our first pint. This was an excellent from the Meantime selection � so good in fact that we forgot about the train and decided to try a few more beers. Although initially quiet the pub soon started to fill up. It was a totally organic mix of people � students, professionals, retires, etc. The atmosphere was very pleasant and it felt more like a village pub than railway station pub! All the beers (did we have five or six?) were well kept � these people take pride in their work. The number of staff seemed to change to suit the number of customers and no one e was kept waiting mote than a minute or two. There was only one beer that I was not to keen on � the Smoked Bock. I suspect it could go well with some meals but not as a session beer. Overall a fantastic pub. Maybe I should retire to Brighton?
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A truly great pub, in my top 5 of all time.
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THE best pub I have ever had the pleisure to drink in. Dark star I bow in your honour.
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Been here twice, suffice to say I wish I lived closer
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Whenever I'm in Brighton, I love to visit this pub : it's clean congenial and serves a fabulous selection of ales.
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a bloody good pub.
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I am so increadibly happy to live near this pub, its one reason why i could never move anywhere else.... A great pub with the best beer in the world. Keep it up!
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All the reviews below are 100% correct. A recent visit confirmed them all. Yes it's a tight squeeze but beer range, buzzing atmo and beer quality more than compensate. Easy to miss trains from this pub even though the station's 2 minutes' walk away.
Good stuff
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Just back from another first class evening here. Interesting Green Jack guest beer amongst three offered alongside the four mainstay Dark Stars. First time I'd visited on a weekday night for some time; it is a good time to go given the lack of space mentioned in previous reviews that relate to visits made at busier times. No change in beer quality - still amongst the best in the SE, and the pub remains an all time favourite for me.
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Always nice to find a pub that's about the beer and not the unnecessary frills such as food. Some unique locals add to a great atmosphere that is sadly lacking in other pubs these days but don't let this put you off, this is a great pub with a truly great selection of ales and plenty of bottled beer. Space is at a premium but with beer like this who needs to sit down.
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Outstanding beer, never had a bad pint. Very friendly staff. A laid back yet vibrant pub. Shame about the big brick pillar and the slight lack of space. Very easy to have one pint too many before catching the train.
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Three porters on. Three. How good is that? And it's handy for the station.
My visit was slightly marred by the hooligan in football shirt element, but on a Saturday lunchtime, you really have to expect that.
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This is a great pub as everyone has said, it is friendly and the choice of real ale and cider is really great! Also, if you are planning a round the world trip, you can get some advanced training and experience here free! They have specially imported a toilet from Peru!! Yep, go in the gents and have a look at a genuine Arequipa toilet (a look is enough unless you are desperate). Although not unique in Brighton this is a pretty good effort!
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Always excellent and probably the best pub in Brighton, depite the filthy toilets - Landlord please take note.
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A bit full of beer tickers for my liking, but nevertheless a decent sort of place. Just try to avoid the pub bore (which is difficult as there are several of them).
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Oh what a pub! Came here for my first visit and got off to a bad start as I was drinking my first pint and got pinned against the wall by some crazy man ranting about Maggie Thatcher and claiming to be a policeman, but after I escaped and got into the dark star porter things got quickly better! The bar staff are charming and the lady bar staff especially charming! Ten out of ten - I will be back!
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Small, one room pub two minutes walk from the station. Eight pumps - four serving Dark Star brews, Hophead, American Pale Ale, Over The Moon and Oktoberfest and four guests including Titanic Stout and Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby. My pints of Hophead and American Pale Ale were excellent. They also have a couple of Belgian fruit beers on tap.
Only minus was having to listen to an entire Cranberries album (albeit at a mercifully low volume). Otherwise, an excellent pub.
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Best pub in Brighton. Come to think of it probably the best pub in Sussex. Its almost worth paying the train fare down from London and that only takes 45 minutes now if you get the East Croydon only. Top range of beers from Dark Star and when I had the baguettes in there they were huge.
Can't wait for my next visit!
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A terrific pub if you like traditional pubs. The beer is superb and I find the people who drink there to be most friendly. I could quite happily spend the night there and often do.
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a solid pub with the benifit that you don't find your normal draft muck in there. as mentioned it does sometimes come across a bit unfriendly if you just there on your own but still a decent pub although as mentioned not one to base your night in.
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This place has to get a 9 or a 10 for Beer, but as Monk says, the overall comfort of the place is lacking and it's not the sort of place you'd want to spend a long evening... I've given it a 7.
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Always dependable as being a good pub to dive into when changing trains at Brighton.
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Things were getting a bit hazy on our fact finding visit as by now as we were approaching double figures, but although the ale was excellent and there was a very good choice there is something missing in this pub, and my 3 mates agreed. I never stay for more than 2 here, it�s not a comfortable pub and not one I can happily sit in for a while such as the Nelson. Sorry guys only a 6.
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I always visit the Evening Star and have never been disappointed by the selection and Quality of the beer available , par excellence for pub with plenty of local competition.
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Popped in for a crafty lunchtime half on my way to the station.
This place has got the widest ale selection I have ever seen outside of a JDW.
Barman friendly and helpful - must go back soon.
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Good Basic pub with good selection of decent beer that's very handy for the station. I'd say it was more of a place to end your crawl before catching the train (and pick up a decent bottled beer for the journey home).
anonymous - 21 Jul 2009 22:01 |
Ideal place to start a Brigthon pub crawl, as I have done with friends quite a few times. Beer well served and a good choice of unusual brews. Service is very good, friendly and prompt. The place has a quite an entertaining bohemian atmosphere. The only criticism is that the outside seating area is a bit spartan and scruffy: it could be made to look a lot more inviting with better seating, some plants etc.
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Liked this place. Only been during the day so can't comment on the noisy entertainment of an evening. Seemed quite a few younger folks here but all very friendly. Beer was good, sampled 3 or 4 in the end and all were good and a lovely varied selection too. Just managed to get the last cheese salad roll at lunchtime. That too was good and very fresh. All told a great pub with good ales, food and a friendly bunch too. I'll be back as soon as I can.
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2nd pub after our Dark Star brewery trip on 4/7/09. Never been before but heard the rave reviews from others and wasn't dissapointed. Can't remember what I had to drink by this stage but very impressed. And how many pubs have 2 porn shops across the road. Will have to visit without the wife next time ;)
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The Star is going downhill. The beer is as fantastic as ever, but on my last 3 visits the music has been so loud you have to literally shout to have a conversation.
I love the Star, but its a pub, not a teenage disco, I'll give it one more go, but if it stays this loud, then it will be the last.
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A Brighton institution remaining unchanged for many years, I was here last Thursday lunchtime and surprise surprise the Brighton Train Tramp was in attendance! A good selection of Dark Star ales were availble and the pub was friendly and fairly busy, no food served, but then there's plenty of food options in Brighton!
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Got served by a lovely penguin the other day....or was it a puffin....never mind. top notch.
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A very popular spot with a good selection of ales. I can why its got an excellent reputation.
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"Whatever happened to the Brighton Train Tramp,Alex?" - Hodge1
I'm alive and well thank you, doing my bit for the growing American real ale scene. Back to Brighton every year to do the beer order for Glastonwick (back in a few days from now, in fact).
Oh, and yes, The Evening Star is the best!
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In a league of it's own, great ales from a lovely brewery it's just a shame the space is limited. And sometimes if you frequent it in the daytime you can be greeted with unfriendly regulars, this is worth facing though.
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Whatever happened to the Brighton Train Tramp,Alex?
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Still amazing. The best pub in the city, and light years ahead of the rest when it comes to the selection and quality of the beers on offer. Does get incredibly busy, so don't expect to get a seat.
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Fully justifies its reputation as a beer-drinkers destination pub which people travel miles to visit. Big range of Dark Star beers (including an excellent Sussex stout) plus others from smaller Sussex breweries. First class.
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bit small, makes up for it with beautiful ales, friendly staff and nice punters. worth a visit!
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I love this pub. Darkstar brew some of the best beer in the country and this is the best place to find it. Relaxed during the day very busy in the evening . Sit outside and watch the world go by, or just the sex shop opposite. Inside the decor is simple, a real traditional public bar. The pub is great but the beer is what makes it. 10/10
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Thanks for a superb festival.
Some fascinating new brews I hadn't tried worked well alongside trusted favourites. "Darkness" and "Nightmare" illustrative of a strong presence of stout and porter at this session. Lively atmosphere (as always) and standing room only until 2230. Here's to many more, and next time I hope to spend a night in Brighton in order to avoid that final rushed pint and dash for Platform 5.
In the Evening Star, a valid point was proved last night, namely a festival does not need to be the size of GBBF to be enjoyable; so long as a discerning landlord opts for quality beers and doesn't stray from this path, you have a successful event.
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Better each visit erm... can I give 11/10 ? please!
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A truly great pub ! Many of the Dark Star beers are not getting up to Croydon so in future i will have to jump on the train every week (45 minutes) for my favourite tipples.10/10.
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Yes yes and yes beautiful cider it really does the trick! too many tricks if you're not careful! Always dogs in there standing on stools and doing tricks - what an establishment may it last forever and forever give us joy
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This pub is a Brighton institution and has a large collection of excentric locals-excellent Dark Star brews plus 2 or 3 guests and a whole load of continental lagers. Extremely popular with all kinds of folk-oldies, students, albion fans etc-highly recommended-Don't expect a seat mind!
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Great dark star beers, or foreign lagers if that's more your thing - in a city with more than its share of great pubs, this is one of the best.
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There's one major drawback to the Evening Star and that's missing one train after another, so tempting is the range of spot-on beers here. Just a quick one on the way back to the station? Don't even consider it!
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Real ale drinkers heaven really...pretty basic for everyone else but always a good lively atmosphere and and a snug feel to it....and of course an unbeatable location to recover from or await the train journey!
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Where the Dark Star story began.
This is a beer lovers palace with a very diverse crowd at any time.
One thing to be clear about is you're not really coming here for the decor, location (though it is close to the Brighton train station which is handy), etc. it's all about the beer.
Serves various from Dark Star, plus a variety of guest beers and then always a deep selection of bottles to choose from.
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Unbeatable beer, great bar staff, and would get 10/10 if it weren't for the smell of some of the punters.
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We were here for the beer and we were not disappointed - the three Dark Star beers were in excellent shape and they also had a good foreign beer selection - my last beer of the day was from the De Dolle Belgian brewery. Not the most atmospheric pub but that was a very minor point.
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I recently took a trip to the Evening Star, but my attempts to make conversation were drowned out by the loud sound of someone complaining about the music. Even the young women with their halves couldn't concentrate.
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This pub still has the best beer for many, many miles. They have cleaned the floor and fixed the loo (kind of) but my friends and I are slowly stopping going there. It is no longer our automatic first choice as a pub.
We go to the pub to chat and to drink good beer. The chat bit is now difficult. The loud music they have started to play in recent months means we all have to shout so, not for the first time, last night we walked out.
Maybe they are aiming to get a different type of person visiting or drive some of their regular customers away.
They have a huge and diverse clientele so I'm not sure who they want to attract. The background music is aimed at my age group (early middle aged) so it won�t attract many young people.
Maybe they want to discourage some of the young women who used to come to talk and have a couple of halves, because this is what they are now doing quite successfully along with any males who primarily want to chat. Maybe they want to involve the smokers outside in the pub atmosphere with sound or just sound lively from the street.
Whatever they are trying to do, the overwhelming background noise means we at least, regretfully, won�t be visiting again in a hurry.
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Paid a timely trip to this hostelry on 23/08/08 - Local "Mick the Dustman" on his usual good form - same for the beers which never disappoint - Saturday evening was no exception. If this were my local it'd certainly save me a ���s in train fares!
Good stuff Matt, 10/10 again!
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Strange smell from the toilets (well, I hope that's the source) now unmasked by government interference. A classic beer drinker's delight.
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Fantastic pub and is always a first and last call for me when I visit Brighton. Excellent quality and range of real ales. I am a big fan of Dark Star beers generally plus is nice to try some of the interesting Foreign beers they have from time to time. My girlfriend also likes that you have real cider and perry too. For me a must visit on the south coast.
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Great pub. Hophead superb and Summer Solstice also most enjoyable. My girlfriend had a Pimm's and the helpful barman apologised for having no fruit and stuff to put in it, but kindly went and hacked up half a cucumber to go in it!
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Great little no-nonsense boozer. Busy, lively atmosphere. Quite a varied crowd, obviously drawn in by the excellent beer - as was I! Of the seven beers i had to choose from all were top quality. If a little bloke asks you if you like musicals...just say no! :-) I shall return.
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Top pub top beer, but the manager and wife could be a bit more welcoming
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My first visit to this temple of good beer and I wasn't disappointed. Packed out and a wait to be served through the throngs at the bar but that's popularity. Three from Dark Star, Hophead, Summer Solstice (excellent) and Mild for May, plusLomond Gold, Milestone Black Pearl and HB Clark Heady Daze plus a cider and a rare perry. An impressive range of bottled beers from Belgium, Germany Czech Republic and the USA plus some Belgian stuff on draught.
An unusual looking place from the outside, looks like two converted houses, this place serves fine ales to a broad range of discerning drinkers, as well as myself there was a stag party, a large number of ale enthusiasts, a couple of off duty binmen and even a bloke in a Dukla Prague shirt.....not sure if it was the away version! (One for the Half Man Half Biscuit fans).
A must visit for any keen ale drinker and one I'll certainly return to.
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Fantastic ale house. Basic boozer with plenty of ales - Gadds Dark, Dark Star Sunburst, Milestone IPA and 1648 Declaration got ticked by me and there more....
No frills, just great ale!
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Undoubtedly one of the best pubs in the country, with some of the best beers. Highly recommended.
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At last I remembered to post my review on this wonderful pub! If only I was fortunate enough to live in Brighton, I would probably only leave this utopia to go home to sleep and eat! (and to go to work unfortunately too). This is a truly amazing place, what with the excellent range of Dark Star ales and guests too. I can�t recommend strongly enough to anyone that you pay it a visit! Well done Dark Star!
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One of the best pubs anywhere. I would always come here whenever I'm in Brighton. The Dark Star draught beers are always superb - try the American Pale, it's like a souped up Hophead mmmm! They usually have a couple of interesting guests on too.
Conveniently close to the station so you can leave it right to the last minute before running off to catch the train home.
They also have 4 pint take out containers available should you wish to carry on drinking Hophead on the train. Of course such behaviour is neither big nor clever and I wouldn't condone it.
Why can't other towns have pubs like this?
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Top notch pub and no mistake! Great beer, great atmosphere. You won't like it if you're a "five for a pound" Stella chav person but if you enjoy proper beer in a proper pub then I can tell you that you need to pop in here for a pint or three. My second favourite pub in the world (my first is the Cheshire Cheese).
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Along with the Lord Nelson, Brighton's best pub and very convenient for the station. An essential visit.
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Ludicrously good given that it breaks one of the major rules of pubs: close vicinity to a station. Great ales including Harvey's, a convivial atmosphere and a great stopping off point for away fans bound for the Withdean Stadium.
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Superb and well worth a visit. Only visit twice a year, but counting the days until the weekend. Guaranteed a good time, friendly locals, always a character or two there to enjoy. Oh, and the beer/cider/snacks are to die for! Wonderful - 10 out of 10!
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A superb friendly pub with a good mix of people and superb beer. I just wish I could visit more often.
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First visit since the smoking ban on Saturday evening and what a huge improvement on an already great pub. Still as heaving as ever, 7 ales all on fine form (the Dark Star Original was exemplary). Keep forgetting just how close it is to the station as well, brilliant.
Lucky me kept getting served by the dark brunette barmaid who had a winning smile, wished she worked at my local :o)
Stood next to George Michael from Start Stories for a bit as well, good spotters badge.
A trip to Brighton isn�t complete without a stop-off here. Sooper.
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I can only echo the comments below - ale very close to perfect, it's hard to leave this place! Small and basic, plenty of bottled beers and a few unusual ones on tap as well - no beer lover should miss it. If you're not into beer you might find it a bit over the top, but still worth a visit. Oh, and it's handy for the railway station, and miles better than a few of the places around.
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beefy beefy beefy. thats a bit sad. you gotta get out more!!!!
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What can I say? Fine ales, fine fine ales! I supped plenty a pint in this establishment. My favourite must be the Porter, which is deep and black and silky. The barmaid, as well, was a delight to behold! Oh, if I was a young man again, I would have taken her out for more than just a pint of porter! The grace with which she pulled upon the tap brought a tear to my eye.
I shall return!
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Definitely one for the real ale lovers. Usually has about 6 ales on, 2-3 from Dark Star brewery, all very well kept and turned over quickly. Lots of stripped wood and pretty basic but not in an unpleasant way. Dangerous place to 'pop in for a quick one' because you will take a long time to 'pop out again'!
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great beer pub
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Just returned from a fantastic session. Randomly met two people who had visited the same alehouses I had in New York in 2006! Oscar Wilde Mild - 10/10, Archers 5/10, all 3 Dark Star beers 10/10 and Gadd's Exodus (6.6%) 10/10. Where else do you get such consistently good beer?
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Shamefully, made my first visit to this pub on Sunday. Superb atmosphere and great range of Dark Star and other ales. Best pub in Brighton!
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If you don't like The Evening Star, you don't like beer.
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nice to see this place still going strong - nothing in the vicinity comes anywhere close
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the greatest pub in the world
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There was certainly plenty of Hophead - and Hophead Extra (5.8%) at the Evening Star on Saturday. The Dark Star Original was superb, and so was the guest beer "Smild".
This pub remains a "one-off" in Brighton.
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Come on guys sort this out, no Hophead for three days when other non dark star pubs have hophead nectar flowing through the pumps. We all know that the world loves your beers but please remember the little acorn that this mighty oak came from.
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i would say this is the best pub in brighton.
won't be to everyone's taste, but as a quiet real ale pub it's excellent.
mps77 - 13 Aug 2007 13:30 |
Although they have some good beers, I didn't really think that they were kept that well. They do sell mead which is a plus but I've had much better kept pints of ale before.
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An unparalled pub which has only got better since the smoking ban came into force. The best kept ale in southern England? Quite probably.
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Absolutely superb. The smoking ban has not hit the pub in any way as observed during my session last night with a local friend. Beers seemed to run out as quickly as I have ever seen at the Evening Star. Alongside Hophead, Meltdown and Original was a cracking Eastwood & Saunders brew (about 4.1%) and several other nactareous beers.
The staff are very professional and businesslike as well as being friendly. The discretion and finesse shown in the way the barman dealt with a drunk was a lesson for all pubs to learn.
It is useful for crawl planners to know that the Evening Star is quite strict at closing time - this is not a criticism, merely an observation, so when buying at the last bell, be armed with the knowledge that you are required to finish your drink and leave by 2320. In my case, if I hadn't done so I would have missed my train back to London!
Retains the 10/10 marking I awarded last time I rated the pub.
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Now with the smoking ban this place is even better - you can breath easy and enjoy a good few pints
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Superb alehouse - its guest ales are invariably excellent and its own brews are classics. Will benefit immensely from the smoking ban.
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excellent beer,great atmosphere,one of the best pubs i have ever been in
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If you like Dark Star beers then you will not be disappointed with the Evening Star. One of only three Dark Star pubs and if the others are as good as this then they're onto a winner. Serving seven real ales (Usually four Dark Star selections and three ever-changing guests) along with a wide selection of bottled conditioned ales and imported beers. Nice atmosphere, even when it's full of Brighton supporters on match days! Very highly recommended.
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Great pub, even better beer. Friendly and busy. A locals pub that makes everybody feel welcome. AWESOME!
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Wow! This is truly a gem for lovers of micros. What a variety and good quality too. Called in more than once in the 4 days we had here, and found all beers first class. A true gem.
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Excellent pub, Great beer, Fantastic Company
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Personally I don't think Dark Star beers are best - exterminate! - but for sheer variety of ales there is nowhere else in Brighton & Hove to compete with this pub. Pity they can't buy up one of the adjacent houses and expand a bit...
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What can i say,simply the best real beer drinking pub around.Dark star beers are the best.
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WONDERFUL
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Amazing selction of beers- the best in the city- THE essential pub to visit if you come to Brighton. The pub is very small which is part of its charm, but if you want a table you might be in for a wait.
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We visited for the first time this week and will definitely be back. Hophead is a fragrant golden joy to drink on a warm spring day. Staff and punters friendly, and the loos were the best seen in Brighton pubs this weekend. How do we find a London pub that stocks Dark Star beer?
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Excellent pub near to the station. It's very small but so many pubs in Brighton are aren't they?
The Dark Star beers are of course excellent and it's always good to see pubs offering beers other than their own - it shows confidence in their own product.
No food was available when we were there on Saturday which was a shame or we might have stayed longer, but I will definitely try to get back next time I'm in Brighton.
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Back in over the weekend,was on Espresso coffee ale from the wood,it will run out, i tried my best to empty the firkin thing..!
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this pub was one of my faves..still is..i remember the first day it opened and geoff was there behind the bar for those able to remember geoff..he used to play old radio shows on a sunday lunch along with free grub..always wore a leather waist coat.felt privelidged to be the first through the door..now its gone from strength to strength..but i still think geoff was the pillar of a small baby..glad its still going strong..keep up the good work guys
gray
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Always a pleasure to visit this superb pub. "Amsinck Black" what a wonderful ale.
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Golden Gate is all I need to make me happy.
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Ahhh... the Evening Star... If you like beer, this is the place to come.
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visited beer fest last night, unfortunatly the only let down in the pub came to light, its just too small.we had to stand outside, people and regulars where turning up, took one look, then buggered off. once again beer superb. i wish they would buy the house next door and expand. god bless critical mass!!
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One of the few friendly pubs in Brighton. After reading someone else�s comments I can say I've got talking to a bin man, teachers, IT gurus, musicians, stylists, shop workers, people with learning difficulties, people who may be geniuses, architects, lawyers, rail workers , care assistants and many more entirely wonderful people. Most evenings if you stay there for a while someone will chat or at least say hello.
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Great place for people like me who got bored easily: there's always something new on.
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Legend in it's own lunchtime. Gets a lot of kudos from 'real' beer and ale drinkers. Unfortunately im not one of them, but i take my hat off to the pub for cornering that increasingly small market. Would definately go in again for a pint of some ale i'd never heard of. Bit small inside though and apparantly gets very busy on the weekends.
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Great pub, great beers, friendly staff & punters....wish it was my local. Look out for the legendary occasional Sunday lunchtime gigs by the mighty Robb Johnson, which have been known to last from 12 30 till 4 30.
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Wonderful range of beers centred on the Dark Star range but other stuff too which goes all the way up to 10. Percent that is. It really is all about the beer here - as Alph_river said, there aren't any gimmicks to get in the way.
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I will whisper this very quietly,its time to light the blue touch-paper and retire, Critical Mass is back on for the xmas period,
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Enjoyed another wonderful night here on Saturday. It was SO tempting to miss that train and book into a B&B!
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Went back here after a gap - glad it's still serving an excellent selection of excellent beers. Still friendly and relaxed, young and old - a place an aging fart can feel comfy. Pity they ripped out all the stained dark brown panelling some years ago - this stripped back look irks me a little. Still, together with the Basketmakers arms, and the Greys and Hand in Hand up Kemptown, it's enough for me to brave the oh so up-our-own-ass-right-on-trendy smugness that is Brighton....
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This is a pub I wish I had discovered a long time ago. I've been near Brighton station so many times but always neglected surrey street as all it appeared to have was a few houses and a sex fetish shop!
Now this is somewhere I make an effort to go to reguarly, not just for the large range of quality beers(real ale, the odd quality lager or 2(including one organic) and belgium- many on rotation) but also for its general 'brighton' atmosphere that is getting lost in many pubs in the city, now that many formely characterful pubs have been given the chrome and leather treatment (not a bad thing per se, but getting a bit ubiquitous nowadays)
I've never been able to get a seat inside, as it is often packed to the nines with proper beer lovers, but has adequate seating outside where many a mirthful conversation has taken place.
What is also good is you can sample the beers in small glasses before commiting yourself to a pint, this is good as with the variety of tastes on offer, you want to know you're getting. Service is friendly and I'd recommend this pub to almost anyone that appreciates quality beer, beard or no beard.
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For myself, I just like the way there's nothing to get in the way of drinking enjoyment in the Evening Star. True, it can be crowded, and its bare wood aesthetic might not appeal to all, but it's a fine balance: When a pub is unpopular, there's usually plenty of room. In the case of The Evening Star there's always plenty of room outside lunchtimes during the week. There are always plenty of seats if you don't mind budging up with others. They're a friendly lot, usually. Just try.
Music is always an issue in pubs. You can't cater for a broad range of musical taste without veering towards the bland. The atmosphere in pubs like this is brought with the customers. A wide range of customers! I'm no good at spotting whether or not particular punters are geography teachers from the cut of their jibs, but I do know that the last time we went we included two bus drivers, a trade unionist, a biologist, a club manager, a retired teacher (not geography!) a postman, an IT technician, 2 housewives, a househusband and a vicar. We had a great time, and didn't make classist remarks about each other or anyone else using this pub, or any other pub in the land. A diverse group, converging to appreciate some very fine beer. Atmosphere is a matter of opinion. I'd have probably avoided this place when I was 19 and on the pull...
I merely meant that this pub deserved a little more recognition than languishing in the 40's on this list's ratings.
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Yes obviously not to like the Evening Star suggests you are from a new-town, that you let your 8 children open packets of crisps whilst walking around Asda's and that you really do think Carling Extra-Cold is a "bit special."
And obviously to suggest that the Evening Star may not be sublime in every aspect is to suggest that you have "love" and "hate" tattoed on your knuckles. Clearly.
Only trouble is as outstanding a selection of beers as it undoubtedly as, my recollection of the Evening Star is that it was a sterile pub for Geography teachers, and that, dear comrades, is not always a good thing.
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It must be a full time job trying to keep this pub at a top spot. And interesting that hardly anyone can do it without trying to put down someone elses opinion. To not like the evening star must be to make you speak like 'innit' is it? Sounds very unbiased.
So the lager/beer in here is excellent... we should rate this pub a 10. So, not taking into account no music atmosphere, hardly any seats. Im sure this would be taken into account with any other pub...
I admire its selection of beers/ale, and im sure if you come here regularly it holds a warm place inside you. I also like a mature atmosphere myself. But im not afraid to say... the star is average at best!
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That little rush of bottom-fermented controversy seems to have bubbled the Star up to a more realistic position in the ratings, IMHO.
Cheers!
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Think we agree then:
1. The Evening Star is an entirely wonderful pub serving a huge range of excellent beers. It deserves a 10.
2. Lager may or may not be beer.
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Of course lager is beer - don't be so daft - its just that most of the lagers sold in England are bad beer.
anonymous - 3 Nov 2006 11:49 |
if Mr anon classes the Lager that is mainly produced in blighty as beer then he needs to get out a little more. The fridge here holds an abundance of treasures,OK the puritans among us would cry shame on them not being drawn through a barrel but hey. Sometimes popping out to Belgium for a quaff of Orval, Chimay, Westvleteren, Rochefort,or Westmalle is a little to far to travel even for the most dedicated of drinkers and thats where establishments like the Star and the Beer Circus come to our assistance.
No Mr Anon not all lager is beer and if you believe that it is then stick to your Carling,fosters and many others brewed(and i use that term loosely) under license here in the UK.
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...but lager only pretends to be beer in this country, and does it so poorly no one with any experience is fooled by the pretence.
On the European mainland, however...
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lager is beer
anonymous - 2 Nov 2006 23:42 |
Undoubtedly the best pub on the south coast. Don't go there. It isn't a lads' pub. They don't even do a good pint of lager. They just do beer and have friendly happy people of all ages and types. My son and I both go there and some women pop in too. Don't spoil it by crowding it, leave it for us. Avoid it. It is far too erm... untrendy and full of fat happy people. Don't go there. Go to the Polar Bar which is full of exciting fashionable people like you and it doesn't sell any beer at all. Drink lager elsewhere...
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A superb pub. Captain Swing's comments are totally offbeam. I have NEVER seen large groups of people drinking lager in the Star let alone students setting fire to beer mats. At the Star fine ales, lambics and ciders rein supreme. Always a good mix of people (all well-behaved) and very friendly, efficient service. A holy place.
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As I'm sure most who visit the Star will agree, it is an exceptional place, full not only of an ever-changing and interesting range of ales and ciders, but also of character and backstreet charm, without being at all grubby. Typical mixed Brighton locals mix with the many non-local visitors who want a slice of the Star's beer (who really cares if they sell food?!). I've lost count of the times I have arrived in Brighton at the station, popped in here with a view to moving on, but have ended up comfortably domiciled at the bar all night. Long live the ES and long live Dark Star.
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Over the years I've visited the Evening Star many, many times. I've enjoyed the "atmosphere" whatever that is, but usually because I've arrived with several mates who appreciate some of the finest draught beer in the country, and can talk intelligently about a wide range of topics without once saying "nowhamean" or "innit". A good pub should be a blank canvas for punters to paint their own version of the red town...
The other clientele are usually friendly enough to respond to overtures from an outgoing personality, and engage in pleasant persiflage. All human life is there, to paraphrase a certain rag.
The staff are second to none. The rather churlish 'plaint below - if we are to believe it - must have arisen under special circumstances. My own barside manner may well have been challenged by heads poking around the door while I was clearing up.
As for criticisms about food: this is a PUB, and therefore about BEER. Anything more than the delicious bar snacks provided at The Star would render it a pseudo-restaurant with all the kerfuffle which that entails. No thanks, I hear hundreds of Star fans murmuring.
Apart from possibly The Bridge Inn at Topsham, and The Stand Up Inn in Lindfield, and The Harp in Chandos Place (Hi Binnie!) and the Claret in Addiscombe (NONE of which serve anything more sophisticated foodwise than a pasty)The Evening Star is one of the finest traditional alehouses in the land.
But don't go there hoping to pull, or listen to street sounds, or play fruit machines, or watch Sky TV on a screen the size of a wall. There are other delights here.
(Dave Rovicks did play a good gig there the other year)
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Oh dear "Simmel" what a bad start to your day,I for one can only apologise for Brighton not being open and standing to attention for your inaugural state visit way way way back in June,i will indeed be having a full public inquiry as to why your inability to read the closed sign on the door led you to "in your own words" poke your head through the door..!
I myself travel over 50 miles at times to visit this fine Establishment, i have never ever seen a bloke with a brush called surly,as always all the staff and customers i have ever spoke to have been sociable and pleasant,that complimented with the added bonus of the best tasting Dark star beer and many others, makes a day in Brighton worthwhile.
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The only way I can rate this pub, is by the reception I got from a member of the staff.
I turned up there with a couple of friends from Austria in June this year. It was just gone 12 lunchtime, and as I poked my head through the door I was immediately confronted by a surly bloke with a brush who told me in no uncertain terms "We're not open yet and won't be for another hour or so".
With that I left and headed down to the excellent "Basket Makers" for a more friendly welcome and a good pint.
By the way, even though the guy had just swept out all the dog ends, fag packets and other rubbish onto the street outside, it still looked a bit filthy inside.
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dosent sell food ?? then what was the totally magnificent ham roll with optional side salad i had not long ago,(others available) ???? perhaps someone needs to visit the opticians
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Nice little pub in great location, with friendly staff and half a dozen unusual real ales. Pity it doesn't serve food.
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I've been to many pubs in Brighton and this one was the best. The real ales were in excellent condition and the bar staff polite, friendly and welcoming.
I just wish more pubs were like this.
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O TO BE IN BRIGHTON WHEN THE EVENING STAR IS OPEN!
O TO DRINK A PINT OF HOPHEAD ANYTIME
anonymous - 28 Aug 2006 07:34 |
Actually, I regularly drink farm cider, and I used to manage a Pub so neither comments are uneducated and I am not an idiot. Surely I can post an honest opinion without being slagged off ?
As to anonymity - are you surprised given the immature reaction ? I also regard my privacy as something to be protected.
I posted this comment as I do feel that while they have a good selection of beers ( though not so much on the cider front !) they have been complacent � which is surely an insult to their obviously strong fan base.
As to being accused of drinking magners and strongbow in trendy bars (heinous) I can assure you I would be much happier in a shed with a barrel of cider !
anonymous - 26 Aug 2006 16:51 |
As a regular user of this website for pub recommendations, I have been a bit annoyed at some of the negative comments made about the Evening Star.
The beer has, without exception, been in fantastic condition and the Hophead has been responsible for some of the nicest and best-conditioned pints I've ever tasted - and I've tried a few!
The bar staff are friendly and welcoming and the atmosphere perfectly conducive to a little conversation and plenty of ale.
Well worth a visit in my humble opinion.
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I am with you on this one Stonch,this pub is a little gem, and as for Mr anon or any of his or her relatives on this site, if you cannot put your name to your beliefs then stick to your Mangers and Strongbow and leave the pubs glorious nectar for the grown ups..!
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Some serious haters have posted below. Although its fine to express an honest opinion that you don't like this pub, bear in mind it does mark you out as an idiot.
It isn't however ok to say the lines aren't kept clean - just isn't true.
This is a great pub. An example of a modern, city pub for the beer lover - not just the beardies.
anonymous - 21 Aug 2006 17:52 |
I can understand that those who like a rather more trendy kind of place may dislike the surroundings and atmosphere but is the comment by 'anonymous' meant to be ironic? As they don't give their name it is impossible to trace back their previous comments on other places, but perhaps they normally drink designer bottled or keg cider and have not tasted scrumpy before? As for the comment on poor beer quality and lines needing cleaning..!!??
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This place is all mouth and no trousers - It is all well and good having a range of beers but they are not kept to a very good standard. The bar staff are intrusive and surly. The cider tastes I quote "like vomit in orange juice".
A visit from environmental health is probably needed to check the line cleaning is taking place as often as necessary.
A shame !
anonymous - 19 Aug 2006 12:01 |
I dunno what all the fascination is with a pub like this...
In all honesty, i want to like it. I appreciate the range of beer and ales on offer. But... why is this the equivalent of giving a place 10/10?
Judging a place should be on many merits. Atmosphere, music, staff etc. This place is small, atmosphere was okay but nothing tremendous, no music available (okay people like to chat, but there can be a balance) and okay the well renowned ale... its nice but dunno if id want to spend an evening on it. Okay the argument is you can get a standard pint anywhere, but... sometimes its nice to go with what you know...
What a rave-on! Okay, maybe im not ready for this place, Im not saying its bad, but its not the be-all-and-end-all either!
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Paid a brief visit on Thursday afternoon. The bar staff always make non-regulars feel welcome, although I have to say it won't be long before I can't refer to myself as a non-regular anymore. Enjoyed two marvellous Dark Star pints, one Hophead and one Spiced Wheat. What a way to spend an afternoon. Love this place.
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10/10 for it's breadth of choice in terms of beer.
Not all Dark Star beers are too my personal taste but an outstanding range of other beers and ales available.
What was lacking on my visit, however, was any atmosphere and character. Something of a bistro crowd in there and not particularly friendly.
Add an atmosphere to this place (which may well be there on other occasions according to other posts) and a bit of character and it would be a winner.
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No sooner did I step into the Evening Star, but I was greeted by no less than six regulars swivelling on the surprising and individual rotating stools that stand beside the bar. Tossing my flowing silky blonde hair over my shapely shoulders, I approached the bar. A kindly gentleman allowed me a sip upon his "Starburst", which caused a great sensual flurry upon my tastebuds. I allowed him to buy me a pint of the "Starburst", which slid down my throat as smoothly as a greased oyster.
With a sly wink, the cheeky vegan barkeep then recommended a bottle of the Belgian Ale. Sipping on this rich Flemish Stout (about Eight and a Half Per Cent) I let my attention turn to the series of animals sliced and dried in South Africa. Nibbling on Spicy Beef, I allowed the Bearded Man next to me buy me a pint of the Traditional Cider, and, perhaps foolishly, take my Phone Number. I have yet to have a dirty phone call from any Morris Dancers, so perhaps my judgement was still sound.
A Delightful German Dark Smoke Beer out of a tall Glass and I was swaying on my seat, being asked by a Polite Englishman for a dance. The Friendly hands of the Barkeep roamed my back as he kept me upright and threw the both of us into a taxi. Never has passion been so great! I will return!
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Always a quality pint and decent lunch time food. Bit busy at times and some funny music on Sunday nights. Civilised and friendly.
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Visited after the world cup final (when it just started to fill) for a quick pint before having to head home. Knowing the Beer Circus in Croydon I was not suprised at the drinks range with Hophead chosen by most while the other 'alf went for a bottle of raspberry beer (bit sweet for me, a bit hoppy for her).
The decor was also as expected being basic wooden furniture in fairly plain surroundings although the lighting was warmer and lower than at the Circus
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Visited the Evening star the other evening, my intentions being to just muse for an hour or so until my train departed from Brighton station a mere 150 yards away ,a very ordinary pub from the outside hides one of the best kept secrets from within.
As you enter and approach the bar your eyes cannot begin to accept or believe the smorgasbord of liquid sustenance that the Dark star brewery has placed before us the customer.
The staff being Matt and Seamus take great interest into there profession, and it shows, i watched Matt pull a clean line as eager punters waited for Hophead to run into the hand pump,and wait they had to,for until the pair were certain all was well the sink got the first couple of pints,an action very rarely observed in most pubs of today.
Lets start with the Hophead,at 3.8 one would expect a rather ordinary bite and average flavors, but no, although a little dry the flavors are in abundance,just fantastic.
Next the India pale ale, i found this akin to a wheat beer almost tangy in flavor and at 4.7 full of push..!.
By now my recollections become somewhat foggy! a pint of ram tam was poured, very dark and wholesome,full of power and taste, and i finished with a pint of, SAS larger at around 5.0, aptly named for its ability to sneak up just before rendering you as i was by now pleasantly potted...!.
A friendly client based environment at only 150 yards from Brighton station, and although i managed to get lost making my way back to the train, its a pub that i visit on a much to regular occurrence, put this on your 100 things to do before you die list,for i die and go to heaven every time i visit.
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Stop the regulars hogging the bar and the star gets a 10.I felt like lee van cleef entering a saloon. Once I'd been accepted and managed to get a drink i sat down and thought 'oh joy of joys, a decent pub with decent beer and no shitty herberts to spoil my day!'
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Top pub not pretending to be anything else. Great to see its not changed in a year and everyone's chilled here. And hophead may be the one and only attraction to some but remember theres 6 or 7 guest beers on handpull as well as all those dangerous belgian and dutch alternatives. If O N L Y there were a pub like this further north!
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Deserves the praise heaped on it. Suprisingly small, cosy little pub with an amazing beer selection (including Dark Star's own reliably excellent brews). Excellent bar staff. Nice crowd - surprisingly mixed without the expected CAMRA contingent. Will return whenever in Brighton.
anonymous - 29 May 2006 10:49 |
The perfect pub for grown-ups: Superb beer, intelligent conversation, occasional live music, discerning customers, and a high level of commitment from the friendly staff and management who ensure a comfortable and rewarding experience. A very short stagger to Brighton Station for the homeward journey.
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if i die please let there be "HOPHEAD" where i end up, this pub knows how to serve beer and DARK STAR know how to brew a perfect pint!
anonymous - 11 May 2006 16:50 |
ahhhh... the evening star. we can't seem to get on the train out of brighton without at least one visit :-) one of my favourite pubs, even though it can get smokey in there as it's so small
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And don't forget the last train into London most nights leaves at 2302.
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Stonch, You're in luck! The Evening Star is 1 minute's walk from Brighton station. Turn right out of the pub, walk to the end of Surrey Street and the station is in front of you. Beware of lunatic taxi and bus drivers when crossing the road!
anonymous - 3 May 2006 16:48 |
Anxious to visit this one as all three of the Dark Star beers I have had (hophead, american IPA and imperial stout) have been first class.
Can someone tell me, is this near the railway station back to London? She wants to go to Brighton this weekend and if so I could end the day boozing in here. Needs to be stagger distance from the station though or it'll end in near tears like the visit to St Albans where we had to crawl the length of the town from the Lower Red Lion to the station at about 10pm on a saturday night after drinking in the sun all day. Nightmarish.
anonymous - 3 May 2006 12:10 |
It is exactly this relaxed atmosphere that makes the pub very difficult to leave. Visited last night again after a day in Brighton to sup perfect dark star beers. I have always found the locals e.g. Tim, Martin etc to be very friendly and welcoming, and there was a great atmosphere last night around the circular table by the window. Evenings like that are never planned they just happen.
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Famous as the Dark Star brewery's pub. The brewery was originally on the premises, but a few years ago was moved out of Brighton. As well as Dark Star's excellent and highly acclaimed beers, there are guest ales and a small range of European bottled beers.
The fame of this pub makes it a must visit place, but be aware that a modernisation has taken place to open up the pub to create a modern atmosphere. The place is sunny and relaxed, but can feel more like a left wing vegetarian cafe than a traditional British pub. It's each to their own, and I could see myself enjoying the place, but the surroundings surprised me at first.
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Plenty of brews to sample. 'Gents' could do with an upgrade.
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Don't go to this pub. Please leave all the beer for me. It is easily the best pub in Brighton and area if you like large choice of very good beer or cider. Is rather crowded, can be friendly. Often end up having to share a table. Has a wide mix of people of all ages. Best on nights when there is no live music. Not much good if you like larger or posh surroundings. Gets a 10 because of the beer and the friendly atmosphere.
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EXCELLENT evening last night. Cracking pints of Dark Star American Pale Ale (APA) in addition to hophead and stout. The APA was just about the best beer I have tasted so far this year!
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Just when you thought it couldn't get better, they now sell SEABROOKS crisps (the best in the world) as well!
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Excellent beer and no sign of troublesome youths just a few beer snobs at the bar who were not to keen to let anyone near it to purchase.
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I tend to agree with Mr Sticker. This previously excellent pub is now over run with teenage students generally swilling lager and brightly coloured suger drinks. Last time I was in a pair of capped, spotted youths were burning the beer mats. The landlors needs to take a grip or he'll lose his core market.
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this is a real real ale pub and not a lounge for yobs thank goodness. very friendly staff who KNOW their beer.we travel a long way to get to this pub but it is well worth the visit. be careful of the "critical mass" when they have it on, it's so good but deadly!!!
rest of beer is also excellent
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I enjoyed my visit to this fine boozer. Excellent beers, many brewed by the associated Darkstar brewery, and a veritable smorgasbord of Belgian and German stuff. Good music too, not often the case in real ale pubs. I respected the fact that they didn't seem to serve any of the "usual" stuff like Carlsberg or Carling or anything like that. The lager they served was Darkstar brewed and quite tasty. Well worth a visit.
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First ever visit for the recent beer festival. In early and got a seat at a table but mistake i made was letting two 'locals' join me. Arrival of their friends meant i was squeezed out and ended up having to stand. Not impressed. Back to the station after an hour and not what i'd planned for my sunday afternoon.
That aside the pub was OK and beer good, shame about those arseholes.
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Very good pub. The APA beer cannot be beaten. Plenty of guest beers on. Also real Cider. After the use of the magic words "excuse me" you will have no trouble getting to the bar. Great value baguettes with salad served by friendly staff. The best pub in Brighton. You've tried the rest now try the best.
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Hophead beer was just bang on, on my last visit 17/12. There was a Christmas beer festival going on, but unfortunately had to get a train, or i would have tried some others. It is mainly an Ale oasis, there are not many seats, but if you can get a perch, there are probably few places better than this in Brighton.
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Although not offering quite the variety of beer that it used to, this is still the best real ale pub in the area and an essential visit. And they do real ciders too - always a bonus!
Some of the regulars are, I'm sorry to say, the kind of socially inept real ale drinkers that give the rest of us such a bad name but they are in the minority. If anything, its some of the newer faces (typical of the hordes of Londoners who've been colonising Brighton over the last few years) who've exuded the most "negative vibes" and they've been towards the regulars - very much "This is our pub now" - but that's fairly typical of a lot of pubs in Brighton these days.
Still, it's an easy 10/10.
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I was really looking forward to a trip to this juicer. The reaction the wife and I got when we walked in was akin to that given by yokels to stangers in the village tavern in a Hammer horror film. As a CAMRA member myself this place did sniff a bit of the 'real ale snobbery' often found in such pubs. But the beer was tasty and the music good. But I did find the place a little unwelcoming as if the regulars resented any newcomers in 'their' boozer.
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Beer is the main attraction here but if you make conversation with the locals you will find they don't bite, speak english and will let you get to the bar if you're buying a pint.
The pub is small, so it gets crowded sometimes like other small pubs, but I have been treated well here by staffs and local drinkers.
If its still as good as last summer the mean points score on this webpage is a bit below par.
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The Dark Star beers are superb, served to a high standard and are beyond reproach.
My only criticism, as others have pointed out, is the atmosphere inside this insipid pub. The smokiness of the pub aside, it can be a real challenge to physically get up to the bar. You regularly have to force yourself past nonchalant locals sitting at the bar in order to collect your pints. Sometimes you can find yourself frustratingly waiting to be served, as it appears that bar-staff prioritise locals over new custom. If this happens to you then I recommend walking down the hill to the Lord Nelson.
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Last night's session was superb. I know it's difficult to fault Hophead normally but the barrel in the cellar at the Evening Star last night (07/11/05) was just about the best I have tasted. Also good was Best Bitter (Dark Star), less hoppy and more caramel/malt tones, and the Porter made a perfect finish. With a taster of the odd guest beer, this made for a perfect session in which every drop of beer was in 100% top condition.
10/10.
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The previous commentator has really made a valid point - great beer [watch out with the continental imports, nice, but very expensive], but the ambience is not at all relaxing. The last time I was there, some regulars were clustered around the tiny bar and refused to give way when I asked - I had to get the barladies attention to ask the oaf to make way - he then proceeded to mutter for the remainder of his stay.Also, the next customer actually parked his bike in the bar, while he sat with his cronies outside, which is not exaactly normal!
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Yes, it's got great beer and yes, it's usually free of lager louts and other such oiks, but there is something about this pub that falls short of what I would call a great pub. Maybe it's because it's too small or too smoky, but I never feel entirely comfortable there (and I'm not referring to the hard seats!). Mind you, all of this doesn't stop me going because, as I said, it's got great beer. For a good session in Brighton though, I would always go for the Lord Nelson.
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difficult to fault, large range of well kept beers, sadly tarnished by the fumes of smokers...
anonymous - 20 Oct 2005 10:14 |
Superb pub, slightly off the beaten track with an excellent (and unusual) range of beers. Definitely worth a look in. I seem to remember a commendable selection of foil packed commestibles too.
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Very handy for Brighton's 2 Porn shops - both a few yards away.
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This is a top pub, oh to live in Brighton again, a great pub on a weekend afternoon, used to sell superb corriander beer, also a good range of ciders!
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This place is incredible for the ale drinker. It certainly has it's faults - it's too small, there's no smoke extractor and the toilets aren't brilliant.
But given what's on offer...well those issues pale into insignificance!
Just go with plently of cash - there's no cash machine nearby and they don't take cards - becuase you aren't gonna leave after just one drink!
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when in brighton, the only place i visit.
spectacular range of beer from dark star, ansty.
also beers from europe.the only fault of this pub is it;s too small, but dont be put off by that.
a beer drinkers paradise.
try the hophead, yum.
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Very good boozer with nice ales. Only criticism is that it gets too busy!
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I really enjoyed my trip to this pub. It's a bit small but very busy, great choice of beers, lagers, bottles and pump. Lovely lively Darkstar Hophead amongst others. Tried the Belgian Jacobsen's Krieg, a cherry beer that tastes like sour cherryade and must be aimed at youngsters - 6.2% ! ! ! Innocuous stuff .... could be dangerous. Difficult to get a seat, also full of a variety of characters of all types and inclinations, quick and efficient bar staff. Smoky for asthmatics like me but non-smoking at the bar and you can sit there ...
anonymous - 24 May 2005 13:20 |
If only I had a local like this; top sounds, teriffic grub and some of the finest ales served in the UK. Brighton's Belle.
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The Evening Star is a great pub. The Dark Star range is excellent - always a style to suit your drinking mood on the day. Not forgetting the European beers and guests available! Very basic inside - wooden benches and floors which add to its attraction. Gets packed at certain times but the clientele is friendly and into their ales. You can't visit Brighton without going in this pub - so close to the station it should be your first, and last, port of call!
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This pub has social links with The Lower Red Lion in St Albans, which is also "second to none" when it comes to real ales. The trouble with the Evening Star is its smallness, which can create either a great or a lousy atmosphere, depending on who's there. That said, there is nowhere else like it in Brighton: pay a visit and make up your own mind.
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The Hophead is a superb consistant 3.8% light bitter. A classic pub just a couple minutes from the station.Easy to walk past on the way to local pub chains... go in it's well worth it.
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I visited recently and there were a number of good ole chavs at the bar - a 'family' apparently - covering several generations. They cluttered up the area with Footlocker carrier bags and by smoking flamboyantly. They were drinking LAGER. Gentlemen, Ladies - there plenty of other nearby establishments more fully suited to your needs. Would you mind using them in future? You came to the wrong pub by mistake. Thank you.
anonymous - 25 Jan 2005 14:36 |
An excellent pub just a stagger from the station.
Staff always friendly and pretty knowledgable.
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This is a great pub for real beer (both lager and ale), with none of the usual commercial rubbish. The pub is small but this contributes to the great atmosphere.
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What on earth is 'JEBS' on about??!! This is simply the best pub in Brighton. If you want all the commercial beers you can find another pub within a few yards. And not all u sbeer lovers have beard by the way ...
anonymous - 5 Dec 2004 01:29 |
Second favourite Brighton pub after the Hand in Hand in Kemptown. Great beer, great characters.
James Allen - 13 Nov 2004 16:31 |
Excellent range of beer and cider. More than its fair share of unkempt bearded old men with large beerguts. But that's the only downside.
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Quietly disagree with most of Brighton; I've struggled to find a beer I'd call 'GREAT', its cramped inside and the clientelle do tend to be gentlemen who enjoy drinking ale but it is different! No standard beers/lager which tend to be pretty strong, so several pints can result in some memory loss and a trip to Cheeky Chicken by accident...
Jabs - 13 May 2004 16:56 |
I must agree with all the commentary below. This is a GEM, you would regret not visiting given its close proximity with the station. Go once and you're hooked on the place!
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Have been in this pub - GREAT sums up all aspects of it. Good live music as well, also a good selection of foreign beers too, for anyone who's not into real ale
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An amazing pub. So close to the station as well. GREAT beers and the atmosphere is so good people think i'm makin it up. GO THERE**
I'm givin it a 10/10 I challenge anyone to give it less!
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Good range of beers including dark beers and real cider
Adrian - 29 Oct 2003 12:59 |
Brilliant pub. Really good beer but best of all very friendly. Good place to go for people of all ages, on your own or with groups. Quite a lot of young women and enormously fat middle aged men probably because they have a fantastic range of beer but not too much in the way of larger.
John Carling - 18 Sep 2003 18:02 |
Have to agree with the billing for this pub. Terrific range of real ales, top food, great music and pleasant atmosphere makes Brighton Rock!
Stephen - 4 Sep 2003 11:47 |
Another great night of blues music and superb beer. Perfect.
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Great music by Ms Ripepi last night, and Dark Star Best was superb plus the Woodforde's Mild. Of course the Hophead was great as usual! Even coming all the way from London, and sitting outside in a thunderstorm (head bowed over pint kept the rainwater out)seemed worth it!
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Just to update the last comment by Lee, the last train to London Victoria Friday and Saturday is 2302
Dennis - 14 Jun 2003 13:46 |
This is one of Brighton's best pubs! During my visit on 17th April I enjoyed Dark Star beers mentioned by "Paul" on 28/12/02, along with exquisite Harviestoun bitter to name but a few. It was a great surprise to see a very rare Dutch beer, Brouwerij 't IJ Paasij beer on tap, as I'd just visited the brewery 4 weeks ago in Amsterdam. Good live folk and blues music at weekends - look out for John Crampton. Very conveniently placed near the railway station - BEWARE the last trains back to London are about 1030 approx Friday and Saturday, but 2346 at all other times. Great pub - I recommend a visit!
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Although it's the brewery tap for the Dark Star brewery it retains at least 4 guest ales at any time. It also boasts a full range of strong Belgian beer.
paul - 28 Dec 2002 19:36 |
