The Iron Duke Pub in Brighton

The Iron Duke is one of Brighton's oldest pubs with a colourful history.

It was built in 1828 on behalf of Wigney & Co. Brewers of Ship Street, and is the oldest pub with accomodation in Hove. It seems when it was built it was a stand alone building that offered a safe haven to travellers on the desolate Brighthelmstone to Old Shoreham track.

Opposite the pub is the historical St. Andrews Church which was attended by royalty and a number of other notable worshippers, including Charles Dickens and Lewis Carrol when they visited Brighton.

There is a clandestine undergound tunnel from St. Andrews to the Iron Duke, which was used by church-goers who wanted to sneak off for a crafty pint.

The Iron Duke is located in Brunswick Town, which is on the border of Hove and Brighton.

I stayed at the Iron Duke in 2005, it was a lively place with a mostly gay clientele, which seemed to stay open all night (this was before late licenses were granted in the UK). I was staying alone in the hotel, but there was never a boring moment- it was one of those special bars where you could happily sit all night and watch the goings-on. I believe there was a fight or two, but nobody really noticed. It is definately a pub worth a place on My 100 Pubs to have a Drink in Before I Die list.

The rooms were large and comfortable, and extremely reasonably priced.

I have heard since 2005, the Iron Duke has been taken over by new owners. They have completely renovated the place but have left the interesting historical features in place along with the interesting local people.

More focus has been placed on serving good food (at the weekends) and there is no longer any need for the illegal lock-ins, as they have a late license, Opening hours are:

Sunday - Thursday: 12 pm to 2 am

Friday and Saturday:  12 pm to 3 am.

The location of the Iron Duke is excellent, just 50 metres from the beach. Walk to the left and you are in Hove, turn right and you are in Brighton. Brighton is a fascinating city- if you are looking for first class accomodation, gourmet restaurants, and top fashion shops best not to go.  Only joking, Brighton provides all of this and much much more. If you like a more down-to-earth style of entertainment Brighton is also the place to visit, with backpacker's B&Bs, soggy vinegared chips from heaven, and secondhand charity shops to die for.

 

 

Brighton Pier is just 10 minutes walk from The Iron Duke and Brighton Station is only 5 minutes in a taxi.

I am hoping to revisit the Iron Duke this Autumn for an interesting few nights.  I am sure I will not be disappointed.

The Iron Duke Address
3 Waterloo Street
Hove East Sussex BN3 1AQ
UK

Iron Duke Website

 

 

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