13 Broad Street, Brighton, BN2 1TJ, United Kingdom
The History of the Marine Tavern
Circa 1856
13 Broad Street was originally set up as a greengrocer and fruiter in 1856 by Thomas Venus. In 1859, supplementing his income by retailing beer, renamed the premises "Marine Tavern".
Portsmouth and Brighton United Breweries refitted the tavern in 1934 with the green tiled and faience treatment, which was the distinctive look within many of their other houses.
On the night of September 25, 1940, a devastating air raid known as the "Brighton Blitz" took place. The German Luftwaffe targeted various areas of the city, including Broad Street. The raid resulted in significant damage and loss of life, with many buildings and homes being destroyed or severely damaged.
The Marine Tavern would have undoubtedly felt the impact of the bombings. It likely endured damage during the attack, as did many other buildings in the area. Despite the destruction caused by the bombings, Brighton and its residents showed incredible resilience and determination to rebuild and recover. The city, including Broad Street, gradually reconstructed its damaged infrastructure and continued to thrive in the post-war years.
During this time, a new counter had been installed and a dividing wall was removed that previously separated the front and rear of the premises as a public and private bar area.
A wine license was secured in 1952 which is when the full length field panelling is believed to be installed.
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1954
In 1954, Brickwoods had taken ownership of Marine Tavern (a brewery based in Portsmouth). The Marine Tavern was one of the many pubs that served Brickwoods' beers.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Brickwoods operated numerous pubs and establishments across the south coast of England, including Brighton. The Marine Tavern was one of the pubs that served Brickwoods' beers exclusively. It was a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a drink.
In 1971, Brickwoods gave Marine Tavern a new frontage of which is still apparent today.
While Brickwoods no longer exists as an independent brewery, the history of its association with The Marine Tavern and other pubs in the area is still remembered. The Marine Tavern continues to operate as a pub in Broad Street, Brighton, albeit under different ownership.
1961
In 1961, Lou Gunn successfully applied and was granted a licence to sell spirits at the Marine Tavern in Broad Street.
It had taken 10 years and at least one previous application which had been denied by Brighton Magistrates. Changes to the Licensing Bill had made it easier to apply and be approved for licences.
Circa 1978
The ownership of Marine Tavern was taken over by Whitbread late 1970's.
1990's
During the 1990's, Marine Tavern was operated by the Golden Lion Group.
Present Day
Marine Tavern is now owned by Admiral Tavern and operated by Demon Cat Nightlife Limited who had taken over the management of Marine Tavern on 1st September 2023.
Marine Tavern remains a friendly LGBT community pub with a charitable focus with intentions to build greater community relations.
Landlords Craig Harwood & Paul Thorn have been keen patrons of the premises since 2005, when Craig started his early career in hospitality behind the bar during the management period of Steven Chillingworth.
Business progression and taking on a second venue in Worthing, Matt Lomer has been welcomed into Demon Cat Nightlife Limited. With his experience, knowledge and dedication, Demon Cat Nightlife are creating safe venues for everyone with so much more to offer!