Dog-Friendly Pubs in Brighton & Hove: Your Complete Guide
Looking for dog-friendly pubs in Brighton and Hove? You’ve come to the right place. Brighton is famous as one of Britain’s most dog-welcoming cities, where pubs, cafes, and restaurants genuinely celebrate four-legged customers rather than simply tolerating them. From seafront establishments with beach views to historic pubs in The Lanes, and countryside spots on the South Downs, Brighton and Hove offer exceptional variety for dog owners seeking quality refreshment alongside their faithful companions.
We’ve explored the best dog-friendly pubs in Brighton and Hove across every neighborhood, from vibrant Kemptown to elegant Hove, from the bustling North Laine to spectacular Devil’s Dyke on the South Downs. Whether you’re finishing a beach walk, exploring Brighton’s famous streets, or hiking the Downs, this guide reveals where your pup receives a proper Sussex welcome with water bowls, treats, and genuine hospitality.
Quick Guide: Dog-Friendly Pubs in Brighton & Hove
📍 Areas Covered: Brighton city center, The Lanes, North Laine, Kemptown, Hove seafront, Seven Dials, Preston Park, Devil’s Dyke
🐕 Total Pubs Featured: 15+
🌳 Perfect After: Brighton beach walks, South Downs hikes, Devil’s Dyke viewpoints, Hove Lawns promenade, Preston Park
🏥 Local Emergency Vets: Know where help is available before your adventures. Find trusted vets in Brighton and Hove veterinary practices on Place4Pets for peace of mind.
🚶 Professional Dog Walkers: Need help exercising your pup? Browse experienced dog walkers in Brighton and Hove who know the best beach routes and Downs trails.
🍺 More UK Dog-Friendly Guides: Explore our series including Exeter’s waterside pubs, London’s Hampstead & Primrose Hill, and Richmond & Twickenham.
The Best Dog-Friendly Pubs on Brighton Seafront
Big Beach Café, Hove Seafront
📍 Hove Seafront, Kings Road, Hove, BN3 2WB
Why Dogs Love It: Right on Hove seafront with spectacular sea views, Big Beach Café is a top choice for dog walkers needing refreshment after promenade strolls. The relaxed, welcoming atmosphere combined with plenty of outdoor seating makes it perfect for post-beach pints. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re well-behaved, and the classic Brighton café feel adds to the seaside experience.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout with emphasis on good behavior. The seafront location means you can watch the waves while your dog relaxes after running on the beach (remember seasonal dog restrictions on Brighton beaches). The menu offers hearty breakfasts, coffees, and classic fish and chips alongside proper pub refreshments.
Nearby: You’re directly on Hove Lawns with easy beach access. Hove Lagoon and Western Lawns are excellent for dog walking before or after your visit.
Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for spectacular views across the Channel. Weekday mornings are quieter if your dog prefers calmer atmospheres. Check current beach dog regulations as Brighton and Hove beaches have seasonal restrictions (typically Easter to September, dogs banned from certain sections).
Dog-Friendly Pubs in Brighton City Center & The Lanes
The Walrus, Brighton

📍 The Lanes, Brighton, BN1 1HG
Why Dogs Love It: The Walrus is legendary among Brighton dog owners as one of the town’s most dog-friendly establishments. Pooches are welcome inside and out (the only place off-limits is the dining room). The pub feels like a labyrinth with numerous passages, secluded snugs, and booths creating abundant cozy spaces to settle with your pup. Dogs receive water bowls and treats immediately upon arrival.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout except the formal dining room. Located in Brighton’s historic Lanes, the pub offers brunch, lunch, and dinner with diverse menu options. The characterful interior with its maze-like layout means you’ll find quiet corners even when busy. The Walrus genuinely embraces dog culture – many regulars bring their four-legged companions.
Nearby: You’re in the heart of The Lanes with independent shopping, the seafront moments away, and excellent street life. Royal Pavilion Gardens (where dogs are allowed) is a short walk.
Pro Tip: The Lanes can be hectic on weekends. Visit weekday afternoons for the best combination of atmosphere and space for your dog. The snug areas are particularly cozy in winter with your pup by your feet.
The Caxton Arms, Brighton
📍 28 East Street, Brighton, BN1 1HL
Why Dogs Love It: With its very own ‘Dog of the Week’ feature wall, The Caxton Arms shows serious commitment to canine customers. Located just a stone’s throw from Brighton railway station, this pub is well-stocked with vegan dog treats and boasts an awesome beer garden. The combination of convenient location and genuine dog-friendly culture makes it beloved among local and visiting dog owners.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout the pub and in the beer garden. The proximity to Brighton station makes it perfect for visitors arriving by train (dogs travel free on UK trains). The pub offers good selection of local beers and American-style fast food. Like many Brighton establishments, The Caxton embraces Brighton’s inclusive, welcoming culture.
Nearby: Brighton station is minutes away. The Lanes, seafront, and all central Brighton attractions are within easy walking distance.
Pro Tip: If traveling to Brighton by train with your dog, The Caxton makes an excellent first or last stop of your visit. The ‘Dog of the Week’ wall is worth checking – your pup might become Brighton famous!
The Mesmerist, Brighton
📍 Prince Albert Street, Brighton, BN1 1HE
Why Dogs Love It: The Mesmerist has become one of Brighton’s go-to venues for drinks and nights out, welcoming dogs throughout. It’s THE place for cocktails in the stylish seventies-style lounge, and the pub combines sophistication with laid-back friendliness. Dogs are welcome for light brunch, daytime tipples, or evening visits. The rooftop offers alfresco sips with your pup when weather permits.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in bar areas and on the rooftop (weather permitting). The pub serves street food alongside excellent drinks selection. The seventies aesthetic and fun atmosphere attract a younger crowd, but the genuine dog-friendly policy means all ages and breeds are welcomed. The Mesmerist hosts various events – check if they’re dog-appropriate before visiting for special occasions.
Nearby: A stone’s throw from the seafront and close to West Street’s entertainment venues. The location is central for exploring Brighton’s nightlife (though late-night might be too hectic for some dogs).
Pro Tip: The rooftop in summer is spectacular, but arrive early on sunny days as it fills quickly. Weekday lunchtimes offer the best combination of atmosphere and space for dogs.
The Best Dog-Friendly Pubs in Kemptown
The Bell Tower, Kemptown
📍 Kemptown, Brighton
Why Dogs Love It: One of Brighton’s newest pubs (opened late 2024), The Bell Tower is a haven for dog lovers. Part of the Golden Lion Group (which operates other dog-friendly Brighton venues like The Cricketers and Hove Place), this pub provides dog bowls and treats readily with four-legged friends warmly welcomed. The spacious beer garden offers plenty of room for dogs to relax in fresh air.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout the pub and in the beer garden. The Bell Tower blends modern charm with cozy atmosphere, making it inviting for both locals and visitors. Being new, it hasn’t been overrun yet – a great time to discover it. Kemptown’s vibrant character combines with proper dog-friendly hospitality.
Nearby: Kemptown is one of Brighton’s most characterful neighborhoods with independent shops, cafes, and access to the beach via Marine Parade. St James’s Street offers excellent urban dog walking.
Pro Tip: As a newer establishment, The Bell Tower is less known than some Brighton institutions, meaning easier seating on busy weekends. The Golden Lion Group’s reputation for quality means reliable good experience.
Metrodeco, Kemptown
📍 Kemptown, Brighton
Why Dogs Love It: This charming Kemptown tea shop welcomes dogs and offers a unique alternative to traditional pubs. The quirky vintage atmosphere creates a special experience where dogs fit naturally into the eclectic environment. Perfect if you want something different from standard pub offerings while keeping your dog included.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in designated areas. Metrodeco offers teas, coffees, cakes, and light meals in characterful surroundings. Kemptown’s bohemian spirit is reflected in the venue’s individual style. More café than pub, but serves wine and cocktails alongside hot beverages.
Nearby: You’re in the heart of Kemptown with St James’s Street’s independent businesses surrounding you. Beach access via Marine Parade is close.
Pro Tip: Combine a visit with exploring Kemptown’s vintage shops and independent boutiques – many welcome dogs, making it perfect for an afternoon’s urban dog-friendly exploration.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in Hove
Hove Place, Hove
📍 37 First Avenue, Hove, BN3 2FH
Why Dogs Love It: Hove Place is renowned for housing a beautiful beer garden and excellent food menu while welcoming every dog with water bowls and warm hospitality. Whether you’re sitting outside beneath long-armed trees or nestled by a cozy fireplace inside, this is consistently rated one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Brighton and Hove. The gastropub offers traditional pub classics and bistro dishes with quality that exceeds typical pub standards.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout and in the beer garden. Sister pub to The Bell Tower and part of the Golden Lion Group, quality is reliably high. The garden is particularly spectacular in warmer months, while the fireplaces make winter visits equally appealing. Hove’s elegant atmosphere is reflected in the pub’s style without losing warmth or welcome.
Nearby: Hove Park is nearby for proper dog walks. The pub sits in residential Hove with elegant streets perfect for urban dog strolling. Hove seafront is accessible within 15 minutes’ walk.
Pro Tip: Book ahead for Sunday roasts as they’re extremely popular with locals. The beer garden is worth experiencing – one of Brighton and Hove’s finest outdoor pub spaces.
The Stoneham, Hove
📍 Hove
Why Dogs Love It: If you’re after dog-friendly pubs in Hove, The Stoneham is outstanding. Your four-legged pal receives snacks and water bowls immediately, while you enjoy burgers, pizzas, and a range of quality beers. The pub’s commitment to canine customers is evident from arrival – this isn’t grudging tolerance but genuine celebration of dogs.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. The menu focuses on crowd-pleasing favorites (burgers, pizzas) alongside craft beers and wines. Hove’s more relaxed pace compared to central Brighton is reflected in The Stoneham’s atmosphere – locals and visitors mix comfortably.
Nearby: Hove Park provides excellent dog walking. The location in residential Hove means peaceful streets for urban dog walks between sea and park.
Pro Tip: Hove generally offers easier parking than Brighton and a calmer atmosphere – perfect if your dog finds Brighton’s bustle overwhelming. The Stoneham combines quality with relaxation.
The Better Half, Hove
📍 Hove
Why Dogs Love It: This welcoming dog-friendly pub in Hove offers warm atmosphere and a menu featuring delicious, locally sourced dishes. The spacious beer garden and friendly staff create an excellent environment for meals or drinks with your four-legged friend. Hove’s elegant character shines through without pretension.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout and in the beer garden. The emphasis on locally sourced ingredients reflects Brighton and Hove’s strong foodie culture. The Better Half strikes the perfect balance between gastropub quality and traditional pub welcome.
Nearby: Hove’s seafront, parks, and elegant Georgian squares surround you. This location offers the best of urban and coastal dog walking.
Pro Tip: Explore Hove’s quieter streets and parks before or after your visit – many Brighton visitors miss Hove’s charms, giving you more space for dog-friendly exploration.
The Farm Tavern, Hove
📍 13 Farm Road, Hove, BN3 1FB
Why Dogs Love It: This beloved backstreet boozer is one of the brightest and coziest pubs near Brighton seafront. The Farm Tavern is owned by Greene King but feels worlds away from standard chain pubs. Dogs receive abundant fuss through the door, often getting their own bowl of food alongside human meals. The quirky décor, wide drinks range, cheerful staff, and excellent roasts create a proper local pub atmosphere.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. Open fires (dog-friendly) make winter visits particularly cozy. If you want traditional pub hospitality with genuine dog welcome rather than trendy bars, The Farm Tavern delivers perfectly. Sunday roasts and sharing plates are particularly good.
Nearby: Close to Hove seafront and residential streets perfect for dog walking. Hove Lagoon and Western Lawns are accessible.
Pro Tip: The combination of open fires, good food, and genuine dog-friendly culture makes The Farm Tavern especially appealing during colder months. It’s hard to find a friendlier Hove pub.
The George Payne, Hove
📍 18 Payne Avenue, Hove, BN3 5HB
Why Dogs Love It: For one of Hove’s dog-friendly pubs with excellent outdoor seating, The George Payne offers homely pub grub, ales, and ciders in a welcoming environment. The outdoor space is particularly appealing for dogs who enjoy garden settings while their owners enjoy traditional pub refreshments.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in designated areas and outdoor seating. Traditional pub atmosphere with focus on ales, ciders, and honest food. Hove’s residential character means local regulars create genuine community feel.
Nearby: Residential Hove surrounds you with pleasant walking streets. Hove Park and seafront are both accessible.
Pro Tip: Hove’s pubs generally offer calmer, more local atmospheres than Brighton’s busier establishments. Perfect if you want quality without crowds.
Historic & Character Pubs Welcoming Dogs
The Cricketers, Brighton
📍 Brighton
Why Dogs Love It: The Cricketers offers a traditional and historic venue – a pub has stood here since 1547, making it feel like a Victorian time-capsule. Part of the Golden Lion Group (same owners as The Bell Tower and Hove Place), dogs are genuinely welcomed. The historic atmosphere combined with modern dog-friendly hospitality creates a special experience.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. The pub’s long history adds character impossible to replicate in newer establishments. Despite the heritage, the welcome is contemporary and inclusive. The Golden Lion Group’s quality standards ensure reliable good experience.
Nearby: Central Brighton location means easy access to all attractions. The historic setting matches Brighton’s Royal Pavilion and Lanes’ character.
Pro Tip: History lovers and dog lovers unite at The Cricketers – rare to find such heritage combined with genuine contemporary dog-friendly culture.
The Robin Hood, Brighton
📍 1-3 Norfolk Place, Brighton, BN1 2PF
Why Dogs Love It: This neighborhood pub delivers seriously cozy vibes, homemade pizza, and board games – the perfect spot to relax after long walkies. Dogs receive water bowls and treats with the relaxed atmosphere making it comfortable for all breeds and temperaments. The Robin Hood represents Brighton’s best local pub culture.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. The homemade pizzas are genuinely good (not just “pub pizza”), and the board games add extra entertainment. This is a proper neighborhood local that happens to be dog-friendly rather than a tourist-focused venue.
Nearby: Residential Brighton surrounds you, with Preston Park accessible for proper dog walks. Brighton station is also relatively close.
Pro Tip: The board game selection makes The Robin Hood perfect for longer visits. Settle in with your dog by your feet, pizza on the table, and enjoy slow-paced Brighton hospitality.
Dog-Friendly Pubs in North Laine & Seven Dials
The Pond, North Laine
📍 North Laine, Brighton
Why Dogs Love It: Sitting at the edge of Brighton’s vibrant North Laine, The Pond boasts an impressive range of craft beers and delicious pan-Asian street food. Dogs are welcome in this trendy establishment that combines quality drinks and food with inclusive, welcoming culture. The North Laine location means you’re surrounded by Brighton’s most interesting independent shopping.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in designated areas. The combination of craft beers and pan-Asian food differentiates The Pond from traditional pubs. North Laine’s bohemian character is reflected in the clientele and atmosphere.
Nearby: North Laine offers Brighton’s best independent shopping with numerous dog-friendly stores. The Lanes and seafront are minutes away.
Pro Tip: Combine a visit with exploring North Laine’s vintage shops, record stores, and quirky boutiques – many welcome dogs, creating perfect urban dog-friendly exploration.
Earth & Stars, Seven Dials
📍 46 Windsor Street, Brighton, BN1 1RJ
Why Dogs Love It: For cozy, relaxed atmosphere, Earth & Stars delivers as a proper local’s pub serving organic lager and real ale. Dogs are welcomed in this community-focused establishment where regulars create genuine neighborhood feel. Seven Dials’ village-like atmosphere despite being in Brighton makes it special.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. The emphasis on organic and real ales reflects Brighton’s environmental consciousness. This is a proper local where conversation and community matter more than trends.
Nearby: Seven Dials offers Brighton’s best neighborhood feel with the Dyke Road area and access to Preston Park. The Clock Tower is right there as Seven Dials’ focal point.
Pro Tip: Seven Dials has several dog-friendly establishments creating a dog-friendly neighborhood zone worth exploring. Earth & Stars represents the area’s authentic local character.
Good Companions, Seven Dials
📍 132 Dyke Road, Brighton, BN1 3TE
Why Dogs Love It: Located in Seven Dials, Good Companions welcomes dogs and is famous for popular quiz nights (book ahead). The pub creates community atmosphere where four-legged friends fit naturally alongside regulars enjoying Brighton’s best local pub culture.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome throughout. Quiz nights are hugely popular so book ahead if interested – check if dogs are welcome during specific events. Seven Dials’ location means residential character with good access to parks and walks.
Nearby: Preston Park is accessible for serious dog walks. Seven Dials’ village atmosphere makes urban dog walking pleasant with independent cafes and shops.
Pro Tip: If your dog enjoys busy, social atmospheres, quiz night provides excellent entertainment. For quieter visits, weekday afternoons offer relaxed neighborhood pub experience.
The Best Dog-Friendly Countryside Pub
The Devil’s Dyke Pub, South Downs
📍 Devil’s Dyke Road, Poynings, Brighton, BN1 8YJ
Why Dogs Love It: Located at Devil’s Dyke on the South Downs National Park, this pub offers extraordinary panoramic views described by John Constable as “the grandest view in the world.” The setting alone makes it special – nearly a mile long, the Dyke valley is the UK’s longest, deepest, and widest dry valley. Dogs are warmly welcomed with water bowls available, and the location makes it the perfect finish to spectacular South Downs walks. The Devil’s Dyke pub is part of Vintage Inns.
What to Know: Dogs are welcome in bar areas. The pub serves hearty seasonal British classics perfect after long countryside walks. Car park parking (£6 all day, National Trust members free) is convenient though the pub gets extremely busy on sunny weekends. The 77 bus from Brighton city center reaches Devil’s Dyke, offering car-free access (dogs allowed on buses). The views genuinely live up to the hype – stretching to the Isle of Wight on clear days.
Nearby: You’re surrounded by South Downs National Park with countless walking routes. Devil’s Dyke valley itself offers spectacular walks with panoramic views. An Iron Age hill fort and remains of Victorian funicular railway add historical interest to walks.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekday afternoons for quieter atmosphere and easier parking. The views at sunset are spectacular. Weekends (especially sunny ones) see the pub overwhelmed with visitors – arrive very early or late, or visit off-peak. Winter visits combine cozy pub atmosphere with dramatic Downs scenery. Always check weather as the Downs can be exposed and challenging in poor conditions.
Planning Your Dog-Friendly Pub Visit in Brighton & Hove
Best Times to Visit
Quieter Times:
- Weekday lunchtimes (Monday to Thursday)
- Early weekday evenings
- Autumn and winter months (except Christmas season)
- Early mornings at café-style venues
Busier Times to Expect:
- Entire weekends throughout summer
- Bank holiday weekends year-round
- Brighton Pride weekend (extremely busy throughout city)
- University term time around student-area pubs
- Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes for roasts
- Sunny days at seafront and beach-adjacent pubs
- Devil’s Dyke any sunny weekend
Getting There & Around
By Train:
- Brighton Station – Main station with excellent UK-wide connections
- Dogs travel free on all UK trains
- Brighton is 1 hour from London, easily accessible from across UK
By Car:
- M23/A23 provides direct access from London
- Street parking challenging in Brighton city center
- NCP car parks available but expensive
- Hove generally offers easier parking than Brighton
- Consider parking outside center and walking/using buses
By Bus:
- Brighton & Hove Bus Company operates extensive network
- Route 77 to Devil’s Dyke from city center (seasonal)
- Dogs allowed on buses at driver’s discretion (generally accepted)
Walking/Cycling:
- Brighton and Hove are extremely walkable
- Seafront promenade offers level car-free walking
- Bike lanes throughout (consider cargo bike for smaller dogs)
The Best Dog Walks Before Your Pub Visit
Brighton Beach & Promenade Walk (Various distances): Hove Lawns to Brighton Marina offers 4+ miles of level seaside walking. Perfect for all dog fitness levels. Remember seasonal beach restrictions (Easter to September, dogs typically banned from certain beach sections). Year-round access on promenade.
Devil’s Dyke South Downs Walk (2-6 miles): Multiple route options from easy valley walks to challenging Downs circuits. The views reward every step. John Constable wasn’t exaggerating – genuinely spectacular panoramas. Finish at Devil’s Dyke pub for well-earned refreshments.
Preston Park to Seven Dials (2 miles): Brighton’s largest park offers excellent dog walking. Off-lead areas available. Walk through residential streets to Seven Dials for pub choices. Urban walking with green space balance.
Stanmer Park (Various distances): Just outside Brighton, Stanmer Park provides countryside walking without South Downs’ hills. Woodland and parkland walks with marked trails. Return to Brighton pubs afterward or visit Stanmer House (check dog-friendly status).
Hove Park Circuit (1-2 miles): Enclosed park with dedicated dog areas. Easy urban walk before visiting Hove’s excellent pub selection. Perfect for puppies or older dogs needing shorter walks.
Essential Pet Services in Brighton & Hove
Local Veterinary Practices
Brighton and Hove offer excellent veterinary services essential for responsible dog ownership. Beach activities, Downs walks, and urban environments all present potential hazards, from ticks to traffic. Knowing where help is available before you need it provides essential peace of mind.
Find comprehensive listings of Brighton vets including:
- Emergency 24-hour services across Brighton and Hove
- Specialist practices for complex needs
- Local surgeries with extended hours
- Contact details for quick access when needed
Many Brighton vets are accustomed to dealing with active dogs who’ve enjoyed beach and Downs adventures. Browse all Hove veterinary practices to find services near you.
Professional Dog Walking Services
Brighton and Hove’s combination of beach, urban, and South Downs walking makes them exceptional for dogs. However, busy schedules don’t always allow time for proper exercise. Professional dog walkers in Brighton and Hove understand beach regulations, South Downs access rules, and safe urban routes.
Find qualified dog walkers in Brighton and Hove offering:
- Beach specialist walks (understanding seasonal restrictions)
- South Downs hiking for energetic dogs
- Urban walking for dogs preferring streets to countryside
- Solo and group walk options
- Flexible scheduling for busy owners
- Local knowledge of best dog-friendly routes and pub stops
Dog-Friendly Etiquette in Brighton & Hove
Brighton and Hove have earned their dog-friendly reputation through responsible ownership. Help maintain these excellent relationships:
Do:
- Keep dogs on leads in pubs (unless explicitly told otherwise)
- Bring towels after beach or Downs walks (sand and mud are inevitable)
- Clean up immediately everywhere – streets, beaches, parks, Downs
- Respect beach dog bans (Easter to September on many sections)
- Ask permission before allowing dogs to interact
- Follow countryside codes on South Downs walks
Don’t:
- Allow dogs on furniture without permission
- Let dogs beg from other diners
- Assume every dog wants to socialize
- Block narrow passages in busy pubs
- Let dogs disturb wildlife on beaches or Downs
- Ignore beach seasonal restrictions
Brighton Beach Specific Rules:
- Most Brighton and Hove beaches ban dogs Easter to September (check specific beach regulations)
- Year-round access usually available on promenades
- Clean up after your dog on beaches always
- Be mindful of families and other beach users
- Rinse salty water off dogs after beach swimming
South Downs Specific:
- Keep dogs under control near livestock
- Use leads where signs indicate
- Stick to marked paths to protect habitat
- Be aware of ground-nesting birds during breeding season
- Clean up after your dog (bins at Devil’s Dyke car park)
Beyond the Pubs: Brighton & Hove Dog-Friendly Activities
Brighton Beach & Promenade
Brighton’s iconic pebble beach offers year-round walking on the promenade even when seasonal dog bans apply to the beach itself. Hove beaches often have different rules – check current regulations. The seafront provides spectacular walking from Hove Lagoon to Brighton Marina and beyond.
South Downs National Park
Devil’s Dyke is just the beginning. The entire South Downs National Park offers exceptional dog walking with countless trails, stunning views, and genuine countryside within minutes of Brighton. The South Downs Way long-distance trail passes through the area for adventurous multi-day walks.
Preston Park
Brighton’s largest park offers open spaces, dedicated dog areas, and lovely walking. The park hosts various events throughout the year – check if dogs are welcome at specific events before attending.
Stanmer Park
Ancient woodland, parkland, and trails make Stanmer Park excellent for dog walking. Located just outside Brighton, it provides countryside atmosphere without traveling to the Downs.
Hove Lawns & Seafront
Hove’s elegant seafront promenade offers easier, calmer walking than busy Brighton seafront. Perfect for older dogs or those who find Brighton’s bustle overwhelming. Year-round access regardless of beach dog restrictions.
Dog-Friendly Cafés & Restaurants in Brighton & Hove
Beyond pubs, Brighton and Hove offer extensive dog-friendly dining options:
Brighton:
- Greenberry Café – Brighton locations welcome dogs for breakfast, brunch, lunch
- Purezza – UK’s first vegan pizza restaurant, lovely to dogs
- Moshimo – Japanese restaurant with sushi belt, dogs welcome
- Flour Pot Bakery – Multiple locations, dogs welcome, artisanal breads and pastries
- Open Bakery Brighton – Kemptown and Queen’s Park locations welcome dogs warmly
Hove:
- Lucky Beach – Sea-facing venue, dogs welcome, cappuccinos with sea views
- Plateau – Dog-friendly winery and eatery
- Starfish and Coffee – Perfect after Queen’s Park dog walks
The Lanes & North Laine:
- Al Duomo – Central location, outdoor seating, inform ahead as dog seating limited
- Iydea – North Laine, dog mad, excellent value meals
Shopping with Dogs in Brighton & Hove
North Laine: Brighton’s most interesting independent shopping district. Many shops welcome dogs – always ask politely. Vintage stores, record shops, and quirky boutiques create perfect urban dog-friendly exploration.
The Lanes: Historic narrow streets with independent jewelers, antique shops, and boutiques. More formal than North Laine but many shops still welcome well-behaved dogs.
Kemptown: St James’s Street offers independent shops with dog-friendly attitudes reflecting the neighborhood’s inclusive character.
Hove: Church Road and George Street offer elegant shopping with generally more relaxed pace than Brighton. Many independent shops welcome dogs.
Seasonal Highlights in Brighton & Hove
Spring (March-May)
Beach dog restrictions begin (typically Easter). South Downs burst with wildflowers. Brighton becomes busy as visitors return. Weather improves for outdoor pub gardens.
Best pubs: Beach-adjacent pubs (before Easter restrictions), Devil’s Dyke (spectacular spring Downs)
Summer (June-August)
Peak tourist season – Brighton becomes very busy. Beach dog bans in full effect on most sections. Pub gardens and seafront establishments at their best. Book ahead for weekend visits.
Best pubs: Hove Place (spectacular garden), Big Beach Café (seafront views), Devil’s Dyke (sunset views)
Top tip: Visit early mornings or weekday lunchtimes. Consider Hove over Brighton for calmer atmosphere. Use beaches allowing year-round dogs or focus on Downs walks.
Autumn (September-November)
Beach dog bans lift (typically after September). Crowds reduce. South Downs show autumn colors. Perfect season for pub visits combining beach and countryside.
Best pubs: Devil’s Dyke (autumn Downs colors), all beach-adjacent pubs (beach access restored), The Farm Tavern (fires start)
Winter (December-February)
Quietest season with easiest pub seating. Pubs with fires become essential. Brighton’s winter charm revealed without summer crowds. Downs walks can be challenging in poor weather but spectacular when clear.
Best pubs: The Farm Tavern (fires), Hove Place (fireplaces), The Robin Hood (cozy atmosphere)
Top tip: Winter weekdays offer best combination of cozy pub atmosphere and available seating. Devil’s Dyke can be exposed and challenging – check weather before Downs walks.
