Popular with lesbians and thespians, the Marlborough Hotel Bar has more than one string to its bow.

The Venue
The Marlborough Hotel pub has two bars: one is a fairly traditional, low-lit and wood-panelled bar; the other is more modern, lighter and airier and it also has a pool table. It was reputedly the first bar in Brighton to cater predominantly for a lesbian clientele, but it's also popular with thespians thanks to the small (55 capacity) theatre upstairs. But the entertainment doesn't stop there. They also host a monthly open mic night and have DJs on Fridays and Saturdays when the place is open till the early hours.

The People
You don't have to be a well-read lesbian to drink here but it would help to have some appreciation of The Arts if you're planning on making conversation with your fellow punters. Failing that you can always play pool prettily or sing for your supper at one of the open mic nights.

The Food and Drink
Staropramen, Brahma, Budvar, Kopparberg and Westons are all on draught but there's plenty more choice so be prepared to branch out. Bottled Brothers strawberry or pear cider slide down a treat particularly in summer. Meanwhile the food is tasty and cheap - dishes such as giant filled Yorkshire puddings, burritos and Cajun chicken salads come in at around a fiver.

The Last Word
A relaxing place that's a cultural melting pot of live music and theatre. The predominantly lesbian crowd allows The Marlborough Hotel Bar to remain a trouble-free venue that knows how to let its hair down and that's just the way the regulars like it.