The West Hill Tavern, Brighton

Official site of The West Hill Tavern - www.thewesthilltavern.com

Official site of The West Hill Tavern - www.thewesthilltavern.com

Tapered corner pub on the hill at the north-west corner of Brighton station. Distinctive battleship grey paintwork enlivened with some hanging baskets. Opened-out interior with the bar in the centre, a seating area in the pointed end and a pool table at the other. Plainly decorated, with rustic wooden furniture throughout. Arundel Sussex IPA (£3.60) from one of a pair of hand pumps. NB - Owned by New River Retail and currently to let.

The Belle View changed its name to West Hill back in 2008 and this pub still retains this moniker. I visited on Tuesday night when it was very busy with a student contingent and I found it very difficult to get the attention of the barman. I was about to give up when he finally got top me and was distant as he poured a half of Tribute. Harvey’s Best and Weston’s Traditional Scrumpy were available from the other two hand pumps and the draught was made up of premium products, although I did spot a carling tap tucked away. Food is served and the mains cost around £7, but I didn’t eat or see anyone else eating. There is a bar billiards table around to the left of the bar and this is free to play every day until 18:00. DJs are advertised for every Friday and Saturday night when there is an extended license until 3am. Thursdays are open mic night and there is a monthly quiz, but I didn’t spot any details. I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit here again, but the other patrons seemed to be enjoying themselves. Maybe I’m the wrong side of thirty.