Brighton Cocktail Tours

Brighton is famous for its vibrant seaside charm, eclectic vibe, and now, its lively cocktail scene. The Brighton Cocktail Tours promise a journey through the evolution of mixology, with stops at three top bars, each showcasing different eras—from the 19th century to cutting-edge 21st-century creations. With a well-rated guide leading the way, this experience aims to combine history, craftsmanship, and fun, all in just under three hours.

One of the things we particularly like about this experience is how it balances storytelling with tastings. You’re not just sipping cocktails; you’re learning about how they came to be, the secret ingredients, and what makes each bar distinct. Plus, each venue offers exclusive, off-menu cocktails crafted specifically for the tour—so it feels like a special insiders’ peek into Brighton’s secret cocktail vault.

The only real consideration might be the walking component—while the distances between stops are short, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a lively social atmosphere. This tour suits those who enjoy history, unique drinks, and a friendly vibe, whether you’re a cocktail novice or an enthusiast eager to learn more about the art of mixology.

Key Points

• In-Depth Cocktail History: Learn how cocktails evolved from their ancient beginnings to modern molecular techniques.
• Exclusive Drinks: Enjoy three off-menu, expertly crafted cocktails, each reflecting a different century’s style.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Harry are praised for their enthusiasm, wealth of knowledge, and engaging storytelling.
• Visiting Brighton’s Best Bars: The stops include cozy hidden gems and award-winning venues with unique atmospheres.
• Balanced Experience: The tour mixes history, culture, and tasting, creating a well-rounded experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 people, ensuring a more personal, social vibe.
• Cost and Value: At around $101.66 per person, the experience offers value through quality drinks, fascinating insights, and intimate access.
• Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before ensures peace of mind for spontaneous plans.

When it comes to exploring Brighton, most visitors focus on the seaside, colorful pier, and lively streets. But for those craving a more intimate, taste-focused experience, Brighton Cocktail Tours offers an engaging way to discover the city’s bar scene through the lens of history and craftsmanship.

This tour isn’t just about sipping drinks; it’s about understanding the stories behind them, from the earliest concoctions to futuristic mixology techniques. Led by guides like Harry, whose enthusiasm and knowledge get rave reviews, you’ll visit three different bars, each with a distinct personality and vibe.

What sets this experience apart is the combination of storytelling, exclusive tastings, and the chance to see Brighton’s thriving bar culture from the inside. It’s perfect for curious travelers who love a good cocktail and enjoy learning about the craft behind the glass.

Stop 1: North Laine – A Tale of Ancient and 19th-Century Cocktails

The journey begins in the North Laine area, a cozy, lesser-known bar that serves as a perfect launch point. Here, you’re transported back 10,000 years with stories of the earliest alcohol discoveries, leading up to the cocktail’s rise in the 19th century. The highlight? A carefully crafted take on a classic cocktail, designed to give you a taste of history without the heavy old-timey vibe.

Reviewers praise the way Harry makes this part accessible—“a lovely evening out in Brighton touring three excellent bars with fantastic drinks,” as one reviewer put it. The short 45-minute stop lets you soak in the history, enjoy your exclusive drink, and chat comfortably in an intimate setting.

Stop 2: The Lanes – A Prohibition-Era Speakeasy and Rebellion

Next, you’ll step into Brighton’s version of a speakeasy in The Lanes, a stylish venue that echoes the secrecy and glamour of America’s Prohibition. Here, the focus is on the rebellious spirit that made cocktails symbols of sophistication and defiance. Expect a prohibition-style cocktail, crafted with flair, and a chance to hear how America’s noble experiment shaped cocktail culture worldwide.

One review notes, “Harry was a great guide, loads of information, history, and cocktail knowledge told in an enthusiastically and fun manor.” The venue’s vibe and the expertly mixed drinks make this stop memorable, blending history with a touch of clandestine allure.

Stop 3: Kemptown – The Future of Mixology

Concluding your tour at a multi-award-winning bar in Kemptown, this stop showcases the innovative side of cocktail making. The focus is on progressive techniques, global trends, and new flavours—think molecular mixology and globally inspired ingredients. It’s a fitting finale because it demonstrates how far cocktails have come and where they’re headed.

Reviewers describe this as “an amazing tour of some of Brighton’s best bars,” highlighting the quality of the drinks and the knowledge of the staff. Here, you’ll try a 21st-century cocktail that perfectly encapsulates the modern, experimental spirit of Brighton’s vibrant scene.

The three cocktails included are not your standard fare. Each is custom-made, off-menu, and designed specifically for this tour—an incredible value when you consider that many bars charge premium prices for such exclusives. The drinks are described as well balanced, inventive, and reflective of their respective eras.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the cocktails and the expertise of the bartenders. One reviewer even mentioned that they had never tried whisky from around the globe before the tour, and now they’re a convert. It’s clear that the focus isn’t just on drinking but on expanding your appreciation for the craft.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Harry and other guides are frequently singled out for their enthusiasm. “Harry did a great job,” one reviewer notes, “loads of information, history, and cocktail knowledge told in an enthusiastically and fun manor.” Their ability to blend education with entertainment ensures the tour remains lively and accessible, whether you’re a cocktail novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 10 guests, the tour keeps things intimate. This means more time in each venue to enjoy your cocktails and chat with the guide or fellow travelers. It’s an excellent setting for making new friends or simply having a relaxed, social evening.

For around $101.66 per person, the tour packs in roughly two and a half hours of entertainment, education, and tastings. Considering the three exclusive cocktails and the expert guiding, most travelers find this to be good value—especially given the personalized experience and access to Brighton’s best bars.

The tour starts at O’Shio Japanese and Korean Restaurant, a spot that hints at Brighton’s diverse bar culture. The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access and convenient to include in your day.

While private transportation isn’t included, the short walking distances between stops make this manageable even for those with limited mobility or carrying luggage. The flexible cancellation policy—free up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

If you enjoy discovering new places, learning about cocktail history, and tasting expertly crafted drinks, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want to socialize and indulge in Brighton’s vibrant bar scene.

It suits those who appreciate a good story and a well-made drink, but it’s also accessible for newcomers who just want a fun, informative night out. The intimate group size and high guide ratings suggest it’s ideal for travelers who value personal attention and authentic experiences.

This Brighton Cocktail Tour offers a compelling blend of history, innovation, and socialising. You’ll visit three distinct venues, each with its own atmosphere, and enjoy exclusive, off-menu cocktails tailored to reflect different eras. The knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, making it educational yet relaxed and fun.

The value here isn’t just in the cocktails but in how the tour deepens your appreciation for mixology as an art form. If you’re in Brighton and curious about cocktails or just looking for an engaging evening, this tour delivers a memorable experience. Expect to leave with new stories, new favourites, and perhaps even a few cocktail secrets to impress friends back home.

Ideal for cocktail lovers, history buffs, or anyone seeking a lively, authentic taste of Brighton’s bar scene—this tour hits the mark for a fun, flavorful night out.

How long is the Brighton Cocktail Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, with three stops each lasting around 45 minutes.

What’s included in the price?
You get three exclusive, off-menu cocktails crafted specifically for the tour, plus an expert guide who shares insights and stories about each era.

Do I need private transportation?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the venues are close together and within walking distance, making it easy to move between stops.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The guide’s engaging storytelling and the focus on different eras make it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned cocktail fans.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and social experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refunds are issued if canceled within this window.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, since alcohol is involved, you should be of legal drinking age in the UK (18+).

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at O’Shio Japanese and Korean Restaurant on Trafalgar Street and ends back at the same meeting point.

Is this tour good value for money?
Given the quality of drinks, the intimate setting, and the knowledgeable guides, most travelers find the price justified. It’s a unique way to explore Brighton’s cocktail culture while learning and socialising.

Embark on this lively, history-filled journey through Brighton’s cocktail scene and discover why it’s a must-do for anyone looking to combine learning, tasting, and fun on their trip.