Brighton is a lively seaside city with a reputation for its eclectic nightlife, colorful pubs, and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its vibrant bar scene and creative craft breweries, Brighton offers a great backdrop for engaging drinking tours. We especially like the Brighton Bar Crawl, thanks to its lively guides, free shots, and the chance to meet people from all over the world. If you’re curious about local brews, the Brighton: Local Beer Tasting Experience at a Micropub provides an authentic taste of Brighton’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Both tours give you a chance to enjoy Brighton’s nightlife but in very different ways—whether you want a high-energy pub crawl or a relaxed beer tasting.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best drinking tours in Brighton, carefully selected for their uniqueness, value, and the memorable experiences they offer. Each includes practical details to help you decide what suits your style and schedule.
1. Brighton Bar Crawl: 5+ Venues, Free Shots, Free Club Entry
At number 1 on our list, the Brighton Bar Crawl stands out for its energetic, social atmosphere and value. For around $26.94 per person, fun guides take you on an approximately 5-hour adventure visiting at least five different bars and clubs. Participants enjoy at least four free shots, exclusive discounted drinks, and free queue jump at some venues. The guides, like Jessie and Rio, are known for their lively, engaging styles, making it easy to mingle and explore Brighton’s nightlife without the hassle of planning.
What really makes this tour shine is the combination of free shots, VIP access, and private photography, all wrapped into one seamless experience. It’s perfect for solo travelers or groups eager for a stress-free night with a lively crowd. Guests have described it as “an extravagant adventure” with “unforgettable memories,” highlighting its well-organized yet spontaneous feel. The tour’s focus on fun, social interaction, and discovering Brighton’s best nightlife spots makes it a top choice for those wanting an active, lively evening.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, all-in-one pub crawl that combines drinks, fun guides, and meeting new friends, this tour delivers high energy and great value.
2. Brighton: Local Beer Tasting Experience at a Micropub
At number 2, the Brighton: Local Beer Tasting Experience at a Micropub offers a relaxed, intimate taste of Brighton’s craft beer scene. Lasting just about 1 hour, this tour is led by Robin, the owner and beer enthusiast, who guides you through a selection of local beers and brews from UK breweries. You’ll sample different flavors, try the signature BeerBelly shot of the week, and learn about the unique characteristics of each brew.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on local, family-owned breweries and the opportunity to discover hidden gems of Brighton’s beer scene. Robin’s enthusiasm and expertise help deepen your appreciation for craft brewing. The tasting is small, personal, and perfect for those who prefer a laid-back experience with a chance to chat directly with the owner. It’s an excellent choice for beer lovers eager to explore Brighton’s vibrant brewing culture without the chaos of a large pub crawl.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in local beers and want a relaxed, informative experience with a friendly host, this micropub tasting hits the mark.
3. The Ultimate Brighton Pub Crawl Experience
This tour isn’t listed as an official experience but is worth mentioning for those who want a flexible, customizable pub crawl. You can design your own route, pick your favorite venues, and enjoy personalized drink deals. Perfect for groups with specific preferences or those wanting to avoid structured schedules, this DIY approach lets you explore Brighton at your own pace.
While not guided, many travelers find that adding local tips and recommendations from friends or online reviews makes this option more enjoyable. For a more curated experience, the Brighton bar crawl is a great way to guarantee a lively night with professional guides leading the way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for flexible travelers who want control over their night out and possibly save some money by choosing venues they prefer.
4. Brighton Craft Beer and Pubs Tour (Custom Experience)
While not an official tour listed here, some local companies offer tailor-made craft beer and pub tours that combine a guided experience with visits to Brighton’s top breweries and historic pubs. These tours often include sampling multiple local beers, learning about brewing processes, and exploring Brighton’s pub history. They’re ideal for beer connoisseurs wanting an in-depth look at Brighton’s brewing scene.
Pricing varies, but these tours typically provide a well-rounded experience for those wanting more than just tasting — including behind-the-scenes access and expert commentary. They’re perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just eager to deepen your beer knowledge. Keep in mind, these tours may need advance booking and could be more expensive than the quick tasting options.
Bottom Line: If you’re serious about beer and want a comprehensive, expert-led experience, look for a local craft beer tour in Brighton.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Brighton
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and what type of experience you prefer. For high-energy nights with lots of mingling and free shots, the Brighton Bar Crawl is hard to beat. If you’re more interested in local brews and a relaxed pace, the micropub tasting offers a personalized look at Brighton’s craft scene.
For shorter visits, the beer tasting might fit better into a busy schedule, while the guided pub crawl provides a full night of entertainment. Keep in mind that some tours, like the DIY pub crawl, are better suited for independent explorers, whereas guided experiences offer local insights and social vibes.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot and ensure you get the experience you want.
To sum it up, Brighton offers a variety of drinking tours that cater to different styles—whether you want a lively, organized pub crawl or a laid-back beer tasting. The Brighton Bar Crawl is perfect for energetic nights and meeting new people, whereas the local beer tasting suits those wanting a more intimate, educational experience. Both tours provide authentic insights into Brighton’s pub scene and craft brewing culture, so choose based on your pace, interests, and schedule. Remember to book early, especially if you’re visiting during busy periods, so you don’t miss out on these memorable nights out.