retiredmartin

October 2026. Brighton.

On the way back from Ford to Rye now, an eight train journey but with four Beer Guide ticks (“half a BRAPA”) in the bag.

Four pints in 2 hours, really important not to mix it up with coffee.

Puccino’s at Worthing station, the “indie” Pumpkin ?, give you a little biscuit that makes you feel better about the price.

It’s all start/stop on the homeward journey, 20 minutes between trains at Brighton to take the air fumes and consider the merits of robot ice cream.

I, for one, welcome our AI overlords who can even make us a 99 without human intervention.

It seems rude to have 20 minutes in Brighton and not squeeze in a “cheeky” (ugh) half in one of the five (5) GBG entries close to the station.

Despite the scaffolding, I’m drawn to the Evening Star again.

A glorious early Victorian pub from a time before seabathing and other hedonistic behaviour was allowed in Brighton.

Forever associated with Dark Star before Hophead went to Fullers, a beer not even on the Evening Star list these days.

Burning Sky Aurora seems to be the Hophead successor, and it’s gorgeous (NBSS 3.5).

After several days of ’70s Smokie and ’80s Phil I’m delighted to get a dose of “Psychedelic chaos, acid rollers & big beats” released that very week !

Shame I only have 10 minutes to rush a half (sorry) and luxuriate in a classic pub atmosphere.

From Brighton to Eastbourne, where the welcoming committee awaits,

and then a chug along Glyne Gap beach and home.

“Where you been ?” says Mrs RM.