Bridge Inn, Newhaven

Visited 22/08/24 Harvey's pub and much the classiest of the three venues visited in quick succession. Small outside set of covered seats occupied by smokers. Entrance by them had a small ledge and nice red leather stools that was a comfy spot to perch. Continuing in that direction was a lounge area with a studded leather banquette against the back wall and tables with classy leather chairs set for diners. To the right is the bar area, with service just on the front and not on the side facing the lounge area. The bar area consists of regular tables and the area by the other entrance is up a couple of steps, with a couple of different seating areas. The boards in front of the servery look like they are the only original part of the venue as the place looks like it has had a big refurb quite recently. The photos & pictures on the walls celebrate Newhaven coastal location. Cask choices were Best and their dark mild, which was lovely. Quite a small keg range, numbering Amstel, Cruz, Inch's, Camden Pale, Guinness and Harvey's own Pilsner. This was the best of the three pubs visited prior to an event at the Abyss brewery pop-up in the Sidings back by the railway station (which is a temporary / summer set-up only there until end of Sept but work a stop-off if you come into Newhaven by train especially). Saying that it does feel modernised to death and the smell of the newness of the place was a little off putting, hence I preferred to perch by the door even though it was close to the smokers!

I found he Bridge to be a reasonable pub with lots of distractions including two dartboards, bar billiards, a pool table, a jukebox and a quiz machine. There are also some TVs and which hopefully show sport when it is on, but as it wasn’t during my visit last night (Monday) Alan Carr Chatty Man was on which is not really my cup of tea, but the few locals in attendance seemed to appreciate it. The bar supports three hand pumps that were drawing Harveys Best and Old Ale alongside Courage Best. There is also a standard draught selection and the Guinness was on good form. There is a small area to the rear of the pub for smokers and some steps lead upstairs, but these were blocked off during my visit so I do not know where they go, if anywhere. I found the down to earth locals to be friendly enough and although I wouldn’t make this a destination pub I would have no problem returning for a pint or two.