Tucked away on Elm Grove, The Admiral is a proper no-nonsense neighbourhood pub that wears its rough-and-ready charm on its sleeve. This is not the place for hushed conversations over candlelight — step through the door and you’re immediately dropped into a world of noise, sport, and social chaos that feels distinctly and unapologetically Brighton. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of energy the moment you walk in.
The pub centres heavily around entertainment. There’s pool and darts available for competitive regulars and casual visitors alike, while football plays loudly on the screens, often becoming the soundtrack to the entire room. Add to that a classic arcade machine tucked into the corner and a selection of board games for groups or families, and it’s clear this venue prioritises activity over atmosphere. The result is a venue that feels constantly busy, energetic, and — at times — overwhelmingly loud. It’s a pub that never stops, and you either love it or leave it. If you enjoy bustling pub energy where something is always happening, you’ll feel right at home. If you’re hoping for a peaceful pint and a quiet catch-up, you may struggle indoors.
Behind the bar, The Admiral offers a wide choice of beers and spirits, covering most tastes. Prices remain sensible for the area, making it good value for casual drinking or longer sessions. Service is one of the pub’s strongest points — the staff are exceptionally friendly, attentive, and efficient, navigating the hectic atmosphere with ease and keeping queues moving even at peak times. They are the unsung heroes in a sea of chaos.
Where the venue falls down is on interior comfort. During our visit the tables were noticeably sticky, giving the impression that cleaning isn’t quite keeping up with how busy the pub gets. While nothing appeared unsanitary, it did knock the overall presentation and made the inside feel more worn than welcoming. It’s lively, yes, but don’t expect pristine surfaces.
A redeeming feature is the hidden rear beer garden, tucked away from the main bustle. This space feels intimate and surprisingly quiet compared to the noisy interior, providing a much-needed escape for conversation and more relaxed drinks. The football screens do extend into this area, but thankfully with no volume, allowing guests to enjoy a calmer environment while still keeping a hint of the pub’s sporting atmosphere. This secret corner almost feels like a hidden gem in the chaos.
Reviewer’s Score
⭐ Atmosphere: 2/10 – Rowdy and overwhelming indoors
⭐ Drinks: 4/10 – Wide choice, average execution
⭐ Staff: 9/10 – Excellent, friendly, and efficient
⭐ Cleanliness: 4/10 – Sticky tables detract from comfort
⭐ Value: 6/10 – Fair for Brighton pricing
⭐ Overall: ⭐ 5/10
Reviewer’s Verdict: The Admiral is a pub of extremes — brilliant staff, good value, and loads of entertainment balanced against relentless indoor noise and cleanliness issues. The hidden beer garden offers a rare calm escape, making it worth a visit even for those who usually avoid loud pubs. It’s chaotic, fun, and full of surprises — but only the brave or the game-ready will truly enjoy it. If you’re in the mood for chaos, games, and sport, you’ll enjoy it here. If relaxation is the aim, the garden is the only real refuge.
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