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The Bulldog
Bar

The Bulldog

Long-running LGBTQ+ bar with cabaret, themed parties and late-night entertainment

Brighton, UK

Neighbourhood

Brighton

Category

Bar

Vibe

bar, cabaret +7

Official website

About The Bulldog

The Bulldog is Brighton’s longest-running LGBTQ+ venue, located on St James Street in the heart of Kemptown’s queer nightlife district. The bar has been part of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene for decades and remains a popular meeting place for local regulars and visitors. The venue combines the feel of a traditional neighbourhood bar with a programme of cabaret, DJs, themed parties and community events. Friday nights regularly feature midnight cabaret, while selected dates are devoted to fetish and special-interest events. The atmosphere varies throughout the week, from relaxed daytime drinks and conversation to busier late-night entertainment. The venue is also available for private parties and celebrations.

What to expect

A friendly, established LGBTQ+ bar with a traditional pub atmosphere. Expect a mixed crowd, affordable drinks and livelier evenings during cabaret, themed events and weekend sessions.

Vibes

Good to know

Practical tips before you visit

Brighton’s longest-running LGBTQ+ venue
Friday nights regularly include midnight cabaret
The venue hosts a programme of fetish and themed events
Private hire is available for parties and celebrations

Gallery

Location

The Bulldog

31 St James Street, Brighton, BN2 1RF, United Kingdom

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WhereIs.Gay rating

4.1

571 reviews

Overall rating across Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • Google Maps
    4.1

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Featured Google Maps reviews

Selected by Google Maps. Read more reviews on Google Maps.

Chris Walsh
Chris Walsh

a month ago

I have been going to the Bulldog for decades, and I love the place but tonight that has changed. There is a barman there now who is very unpleasant. You approach the bar, he looks at you, he puts his head down and continues to drink his glass of Coke. When he feels like it, he looks up and serves you. This has happened so often that this is not my imagination, it's his playbook. Tonight, I went in again, the same happened. I called to him while he was swigging his Coke. "Hi!" His response to me "What do you want?" No more. There are plenty more places to spend my money. I hope you train him or get rid of him, because I won't be back while he treats customers like that.

Review from Google Maps

Ian J Gill
Ian J Gill

a month ago

This place is the least friendly place in Brighton. It’s almost like they go out of their way to make you feel unwelcome. Have tried 5 times and Everytime it’s the same unless you are friends with one of the two bar men you will be ignored and made feel uncomfortable. I have tried so many times but I always feel uncomfortable. They make it feel like youre interrupting their private space. It’s sad to see considering the small community of Brighton, it has such great potential but it remains as a clique within a clique.

Review from Google Maps

David Penagos
David Penagos

4 months ago

One of a kind spot in Brighton. The vibe is always chilled, welcoming, and full of good energy. What really makes the difference is the staff, super friendly and attentive, they create an atmosphere that makes you want to come back again and again... A great place to have a drink, and enjoy the good vibes

Review from Google Maps

Terry Bryan
Terry Bryan

a year ago

The oldest gay bar in Brighton. Mainly men 40+ Busiest on Sat eve's. Friendly bar staff. Doesn't serve food.

Review from Google Maps

Chris B
Chris B

3 months ago

Great bar, lovely bar man (Ollie). Was a little quiet when we visited

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
31 July 2026
Listed in
Brighton › United Kingdom
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google