A new self-service wine establishment featuring more than 100 varieties available by the pour is preparing to launch in central Brighton.
Vagabond, recognised for its self-dispensing wine technology and informal approach to wine tasting, will establish its inaugural town centre location beyond the capital in five years at a section of the former Browns Brasserie premises on Duke Street.
The popular Browns Bar and Brasserie ceased operations in May 2025 after five decades of trading.
Vagabond Brighton is anticipated to debut in late autumn following substantial renovation work on the 2,980 square foot space. The remaining portion of the building now houses the Flat Iron steak restaurant.
Graham Hall, interim managing director at Vagabond Wines, explained that Brighton has consistently operated to its own rhythm, describing it as entertaining, lively and proudly independent, making it an ideal destination for Vagabond.
He noted that considerable time had passed since the company opened a new establishment outside London, and the location could not have been more suitable.
He expressed enthusiasm about bringing their wine concept to the area and familiarising residents with an innovative approach to sampling wine, one glass at a time.
The establishment will showcase Vagabond’s characteristic self-serve wine dispensing equipment, enabling visitors to discover over 100 wines by the glass according to their own preferences.
The range will encompass various English wines produced at Vagabond’s Urban Winery in Canada Water, London, with numerous selections crafted using grapes sourced from vineyards throughout Sussex and the South East.
Vagabond seeks to democratise wine access through a casual, communal environment where patrons can sample different varieties free from the formality of conventional wine establishments.
The Brighton location will incorporate a private dining space suitable for group gatherings and tasting sessions, along with a stainless steel counter influenced by the vessels used in the company’s winemaking operations.
This launch represents Vagabond’s third venue of 2026, following recent openings in London’s Soho and Canary Wharf districts.
The company, which currently runs 14 sites, intends to grow its portfolio to 25 locations within the next five years.
Vagabond was purchased by Majestic Wine in 2024 as part of a strategy to expand into experience-focused hospitality.
John Colley, executive chairman and chief executive of Majestic Wine Group, stated that the company had been seeking opportunities to broaden Vagabond’s presence beyond London since acquiring the business two years prior.