Fancy sipping on a margarita while taking in swoon-worthy views of the town? We know the feeling. From quirky boozers with secret sky-high nooks to cocktail dens housing party-ready outdoor terraces and lip-smacking bevvies, our town boats a lot of elevated hotspots. So whether you're after a pint in the sun or an alfresco meal, check out our guide to the best rooftop bars in Brighton.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Make your way to Oculist on Boyce's Street for their two rooftop spaces, one with heated booths and one featuring an open-air bar, perfect for any time of year. Touting a range of benches and tables surrounded by greenery, this fabulous haunt is the perfect location to enjoy some top-notch Asian grub like bao buns or udon noodles, alongside delving into a drinks menu filled with cocktails and craft brews.
Searching for rooftop cocktail bars in Brighton? The Mesmerist has got you covered. This boozer is nestled in The Lanes, keeping punters satisfied with bottomless brunches, Sunday roasts and refreshing bevvies, which can be enjoyed in the stunning sky-high space. Fancy a boogie? There are also live music sets on a weekly basis, as well as a free open deck night on Mondays if you want to get involved.
If you're in the mood for rooftop cocktails, No 32 is a stylish little number in the heart of all the action. Take a break from the hustle and bustle for a leisurely weekend brunch, lunchtime bite or an evening aperitif on its rooftop balcony, with regular live music and late-night DJ sets to keep you entertained. The drinks selection is pretty extensive too, with classic and signature concoctions like the Elderflower Pepper Fusion or a Lychee Rose Martini.
Located just a stone's throw away from Brighton's beachfront, The Walrus is one of the best bars in Brighton with its very own two-storey beer garden. The ideal place for a few summertime Pimm's with mates over a few small plates, this bright and airy spot won't fail to disappoint. You can expect drag brunches, cabaret shows, supper clubs and so much more here, and it's even been named in Liberty Games' top 30 places to eat and drink in the UK, so you know you're in good hands.
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With vibrant murals, laidback vibes and knockout craft pints, Grand Central is a popular choice for summertime Brighton bars. Venture up to the alfresco terrace for your dose of vitamin D, with a cocktail in hand, and you'll soon see why it's gained quite the name across the town. they also offer a brilliant Sunday roast here, as well as other tasty dishes like crispy pork bao buns and cherry tomato linguini.
After rooftop bars on Brighton's seafront? Grab your sunnies, as Patterns is bringing summer vibes with its space overlooking the beach. Whether you're heading in for the bottomless disco brunch or a cold pint and a burger, this fabulous watering hole is the perfect location for alfresco sips. As for entertainment, their weekly Friday night Foundations event showcases up-and-coming musical talent in Brighton - and it's totally free to attend.
Home to one of the area's most unexpected - and charming - terraces, The Lion and Lobster is a traditional pub that also houses one of the town's best cool rooftop bars in Brighton, set on a quiet street close to the seafront. Meet your mates here for an afternoon of sinking pints and soaking up the sun in comfort, while snacking on everything from sticky Korean pork skewers to crispy red onion and carrot burgers.
Flaunting a rooftop terrace that's decked out with twinkling fairy lights, hanging wisteria and a retractable canopy, The Joker is the ideal venue for alfresco antics. This spot was voted Best Pub in East Sussex for 2022 in the National Pub & Bar Awards, thanks to their seasonally rotating cocktail list and gorgeous decor. And if you're hungry? There's also a mouthwatering New York-inspired menu from Lost Boys Kitchen, featuring chicken burgers, vegan nuggets and buffalo loaded fries.
Located in The Lanes, Mrs Fitzherberts is a quirky cocktail bar with a secret upstairs terrace. Featuring a retractable roof, the adaptable space has got you covered whatever the weather, while flower pot tipples, craft beer and Greek street food are on hand for your eating and drinking pleasure. You can even find live music here every single week, as well as DJs playing 'til late on the weekend.
Created by by Gingerman Restaurant Group's Ben and Pamela McKellar, Flint House in The Lanes is a chic spot for summer date nights, with umbrellas in pace for that unpredictable British weather. Head to their rooftop terrace with your other half to enjoy their delicious selection of small plates, from oysters or marinated aubergine to ham and gruyere croquettes, alongside a crackin' wine menu to match.
Part of the exclusive members-only group Soho House, Brighton Beach House flaunts unbeatable views of the seafront and the glamourous art deco interiors you would expect from a sophisticated spot like this. Though not just anyone can walk in, the Mediterranean small plates, brunches and Sunday roasts make it well worth the membership fee, with a gym on site for working up an appetite beforehand.
Bohemia touts a rooftop garden that's both a socialites' paradise and a plant-adorned haven. From its lush wares to its vibrant yellow umbrellas, this outdoor terrace is ready for sunshine revellers to grab a tipple, making it one of the best rooftop bars in Brighton's The Lanes. While you're here, be sure to try out the killer concoctions and dishes like calamari fritti, truffle burgers or grilled fillet steak. You'll even find cocktail masterclasses and weekly live music sessions here too.
