A pub in the city has been named one of the best in the UK.

The Watchmaker’s Arms, a micropub in Goldstone Villas, Hove, has made the shortlist of the country’s top 16 pubs.

Pubs in the competition are scored on their atmosphere, décor and service, but most importantly the quality of live beer, real cider and perry.

The Watchmaker’s Arms was recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (Camra) who complimented the venue for its well-used outside seating area.

Judges said the pub had a good range of cask beers on sale which are served from a cold room behind the bar, rotating fortnightly.

The Argus: The Watchmaker's Arms is in Goldstone Villas, HoveThe Watchmaker's Arms is in Goldstone Villas, Hove (Image: Camra)

The pub was praised for its offerings of local cask beers which are almost always from small breweries.

The top 16 pubs will now go forward to the final for the National Pub of the Year 2023 crown – the highest accolade afforded to British pubs.

In October, the final four will be announced, before the overall winner is announced in early 2024.

Last year’s winner was the Tamworth Tap in Staffordshire.

Andrea Briers, National Coordinator for the Pub of the Year competition says: “I am delighted to announce this year’s final 16 pubs. I would like to congratulate each and every one of them for their hard work against a difficult backdrop for the trade with increasing energy costs, business rates and the cost-of-living crisis impacting on people visiting pubs.

“It is testament to the winners that they are facing these challenges head on and they are a shining example to what can be done. I would also like to thank their loyal customers who continue to support them in these difficult times.

“There are thousands of amazing pubs across the country and I would encourage everyone to visit their local and seek out others where they live. Not only will that support local businesses, but pubs play a vital part in communities which we want to both protect, promote and see them thrive.”