Tucked down North Gardens, a quiet backstreet close to Brighton station, the Caxton Arms is an independent traditional pub that many locals regard as a hidden gem. Often described as the pub people never knew was there, on a road they did not know existed, it offers a friendly, characterful alternative to the busier venues around the station and city centre. The pub trades on its welcoming atmosphere, its food and its range of drinks rather than on passing footfall. The Caxton Arms first opened in 1862 and was reconstructed and refronted in 1928 as a community pub serving the local area. It is named after William Caxton, the merchant and printer credited with introducing the printing press to England in the fifteenth century, and that historic identity is reflected in the pub's presentation. The current owners took over in 2017 with the aim of returning it to its roots as a focal point for the surrounding community. Behind the bar there is a selection of Shepherd Neame real ales, draught beers, wines and spirits, along with a notably large gin range, while the kitchen serves pub classics from fish and chips to a wide choice of burgers, with vegetarian and vegan options and a Sunday roast that has won local recognition. The food and drink offer is squarely in the traditional pub mould, generous and unpretentious. The building has plenty of space to explore. A split-level garden includes a mezzanine balcony and a downstairs patio, and a basement area houses additional seating beneath a mural depicting many of the city's landmarks, complete with a piano. There is also a private function room with its own bar and PA system, suited to parties and events. Entertainment is part of the pub's appeal, with a calendar that runs from live gigs to quiz nights, and a stock of more than fifty board games, darts and what is said to be the only bar billiards table in the city centre. This combination of history, hospitality and things to do has made the Caxton Arms a favourite for those seeking a genuine local close to the heart of Brighton.

Type: Bar / Pub

Address: 36 North Gardens, Brighton, United Kingdom

Telephone: 01273 387346

Website: https://www.caxtonarms.co.uk

Opening Date: 01/01/1862