The Hop Poles, Brighton

The Spotted Dog has reverted back to its original name after a twelve year stint as the Hop Poles. This is one of the oldest pubs in Brighton and its history can be traced to before the 1790s. It is hard to tell that this is a Greene King tied house as they have adopted a hands-off approach and the only sign I saw was the out of place IPA on the bar. I say out of place as the other cask offerings last night (Tuesday) were three from Dark Star, two from Harveys, Kissingate’s Dark Cherry Mild and Two Trees Perry. There is also an extensive premium draught lager selection including offerings from Brooklyn and Meantime Breweries. The fridges are also packed with enough beer choice to keep the thirstiest of discerning drinkers busy for a couple of days. The new owners of the Spotted Dog also own the freehold of the Snowdrop Inn in Lewes which also prides itself on delivering something more than mass produced fizzy lager. Food is served and people were still ordering at 20:30 last night (Tuesday), but I didn’t notice any prices. The pub itself is small and rectangular with homely décor making it a comfortable place to enjoy a few jars. There was some low music from the sixties in the background and I didn’t notice any TV screens. There is also a small enclosed seating area out the back that is lined with potted plants. This pub is a must visit if in Brighton and certainly one to complement the much lauded Evening Star a brisk walk away.

cool, busy pub in the heart of brighton. very large food menu which i have found both excellent and not so excellent.