Traditionally a stronghold for all that was best about the alternative music scene in Brighton, nowadays The Hobgoblin offers both indie students and longstanding Goth and punk regulars a breath of fresh air in a sea of so-called style bars.

The Venue
The Hobgoblin is a fairly traditional pub which attracts a mixed bag in terms of its clientele, but it's fair to say it's popular with students and those into alternative music (which is pretty mainstream now), including a scattering of Goths and punks. There's lots going on in the week, including DJ nights on Tuesdays and Fridays, live music at the weekend and open mic sessions on Thursdays, plus the occasional comedy night. There's a large beer garden which is partially sheltered but popular all year round.

The People
Unfortunately the regulars tend to be more diluted than they have been in the past, a little less Goth, slightly less flamboyantly styled punks and indie kids who don't really understand that if music is in the Top 40 it can't count as alternative. However, The Hobgoblin does attract a more diverse crowd than most Brighton pubs and for that it will always occupy a fond place in many a local's heart.

The Drink
Pints or bottles, take your pick as there's plenty of both. Carlsberg, Carling, Stella Artois, Scrumpy Jack, Strongbow, Old Rosie, London Pride and Brakspear are all on draught and there's Green Goblin, Corona, Budweiser, Holsten Pils, Beck's and Newcastle Brown in bottles.

The Last Word
The Hobgoblin is a big pub which is popular with the indie student crowd and still occupies a fond place in the hearts of many of the city's Goths and punks.