Fortune of War

The Fortune of War is a pub built into the Kings Road Arches on Brighton seafront, a short stroll from the Palace Pier. Dating back to 1882, it has an interior shaped like an upturned boat, Harvey's Sussex Best on cask and lots of outdoor seating facing the beach.

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Tomas Cermak

Under the arches

The pub sits in the arches beneath the seafront road at beach level, so you can walk straight off the pebbles for a pint. Inside, the room is shaped like the hull of an upside-down boat, which suits the setting. It is run by the Laine Pub Company, which operates a number of Brighton pubs.

Drinks and food

Harvey's Sussex Best Bitter is the regular cask ale, and there are no rotating guest beers, so this is a place for a reliable pint of the local brewery's classic. Food is pizza, served at lunchtime and in the evening. On warm days most people end up outside, where there is plenty of seating. Pizza and a pint by the beach is about as Brighton as it gets.

When to go

A sunny late afternoon is when it comes into its own, with the beach in front of you. It also stays open late at weekends, so it works as a first or last stop on a night out. Shelter Hall's food hall is next door for more choice, and The Old Ship Hotel is a couple of minutes away.

Highlights

  • Pub in the seafront arches, dating back to 1882
  • Interior shaped like an upturned boat
  • Harvey's Sussex Best on cask
  • Plenty of outdoor seating on the beach front

Good to know

  • Food is pizza.
  • Harvey's Sussex Best is the regular cask ale; there are no changing guest beers.

Frequently asked questions

Nearby

Sources: camra.org.uk