About BN45 7FJ
BN45 7FJ is best known as the postcode of Route 23 Diner , a charming independent café on London Road (A23) in Pyecombe just north of Brighton (route-23-diner.wheree.com ). This retro-style roadside diner has been a fixture on the highway since the 1980s. You’ll recognize it by its brick-and-tile building with large front windows, classic blue-and-white awnings, and a bright neon sign. Step inside and you’ll see vintage petrol logos, 1950s memorabilia and even an old jukebox – everything from red vinyl booths to checkered tile floors contributes to the nostalgic atmosphere.
The building actually has a bit of history: it opened around 1984–85 as a Little Chef before later closing and being reborn as an independent café (littlechef.fandom.com ). Longtime locals and staff often share stories of the transition – even the current décor retains subtle hints of its past life (for example, a “rocket car” neon sign out front echoes an earlier era of highway restaurants). Because of its uninterrupted service as a highway eatery, Route 23 Diner is almost legendary to drivers. Families who used to stop here on road trips now bring their own kids to the same counter. In fact, GPS and map services list “Route 23 Diner – Brighton BN45 7FJ” by name (route-23-diner.wheree.com ), so ingrained is it in the local scene. It’s one of the few surviving classic British A-road cafés in the area, symbolizing a slice of motor-travel history right on the edge of Brighton’s suburbs.
Dining and Menu
Route 23 Diner focuses on classic all-day breakfast and brunch fare (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). The kitchen turns out traditional British fry-ups – eggs, bacon, sausages, black pudding, baked beans, fried bread and grilled tomatoes – alongside comfort items like toasted sandwiches and pancakes. Portions are famously large: one guest noted every cooked breakfast came with free bread-and-butter and was “huge” in size (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Menus on the wall advertise hearty combos (for example a “Big Mug Breakfast” piled with bacon, sausage, eggs and more (route-23-diner.wheree.com )) to show how seriously they take value. Reviewers frequently mention the all-you-can-drink tea/coffee with each meal – as one said, a full set breakfast comes with “a lovely mug of tea or coffee” at no extra charge (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Despite the old-fashioned menu, service is friendly and food is freshly made to order. Travelers praise the excellent value – for instance, a 2019 review called the breakfast “great value” with well-cooked bacon and sausages (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Average plates cost well under £10, making it cheaper than city cafés for the same volume of food. The diner’s menu also covers a range of diets: it clearly marks vegetarian and gluten-free options, and even includes vegan-friendly breakfast (e.g. veggie sausages, plant-based spreads) (wanderlog.com ) (wanderlog.com ). The result is a welcoming place for all appetites – you can get the full fry-up or ask for a lighter meat-free plate without issue.
Hours and Reservations
Route 23 Diner operates on a casual walk-in basis. There are no tickets or formal reservations – you simply arrive and take a seat (the restaurant is first-come, first-served). Standard opening times are mornings through early afternoon. According to the business’s information, it typically trades from around 7:00am to 12:00pm (Mon–Sat) focusing on the breakfast/brunch trade (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). In practice, customer reports suggest current hours are roughly 06:00–15:00 Monday–Saturday and about 08:30–14:00 on Sundays (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). (It’s always a good idea to double-check before a holiday, as hours can change.) Because parking is limited to daytime, the diner closes in mid-afternoon. Expect a queue at peak breakfast hours, especially on weekends — for a smoother experience aim to arrive early or mid-afternoon if possible. The 메뉴 prices are clearly listed by the counter, and you pay when you order (there are no hidden service charges). The overall cost is just your meal price per person, so you won’t find admission fees or ticket tiers here like at a theatre.
Seating and Layout
The interior is straightforward diner-style. As soon as you enter, you’ll see about 50 seats inside (split between booths and tables) and around 16 covered bench seats on the little patio outside (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). Seating is entirely general admission – simply sit wherever you like (families often head to booths, and travelers sometimes claim window seats to watch the A23 traffic). The kitchen and counter occupy one side of the room, so your food is brought out to the table shortly after ordering. Sightlines are generally good from any seat; the room isn’t divided by partitions. There is no VIP or reserved section – even the small “outdoor” area has picnic tables under a roof extension. Highchairs and booster seats are available for children, and the floor plan is all on one level (no stairs), making it easy for wheelchair users or parents with pushchairs. Customers often note how friendly and clean the space is; for example, a long-time visitor mentioned “spotless diner” and good service (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). One regular review even highlights that it’s perfect for families and motorcyclists alike – "a great diner for families and also a brilliant biker spot" (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) – emphasizing that parking large bikes or cars is no problem. Overall, you’ll find Route 23 Diner is unpretentious and spartan but tidy and comfortable.
Getting There and Parking
Route 23 Diner’s exact address is 72 London Road, Pyecombe, Brighton BN45 7FJ (route-23-diner.wheree.com ). It sits directly on the A23 (London Road) via its own slip road just south of Pyecombe village (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). If driving from Brighton, head north on the A23 through Patcham—watch for the distinct Route 23 signage on the left. From the London direction (via the M23), it’s just past the Pease Pottage services. Because of its highway location, the diner is designed for car access. Indeed, free parking is a highlight – there’s a sizeable lot around the building that holds roughly 40 vehicles (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). Customers report that parking is usually hassle-free, even for large vehicles or motorcycles. (In fact, many motorbike groups choose this as a meetup point.) The adjacent BP service station and convenience shop offer fuel and restrooms, so in one stop you can fill up your tank and your stomach.
If you’re not driving, the nearest train station is Hassocks , about 4 km to the north (www.doogal.co.uk ). Cheap trains from Brighton or London will get you to Hassocks in 10–15 minutes, but from there you'd need a taxi or bus. Metrobus runs Route 273 along the A23 between Brighton and Crawley; you can catch it from Brighton (Old Steine) and get off at Pyecombe (Mill Lane/Rockrose stops). From that bus stop it’s just a 10–15 minute walk south along London Road to the diner. Note that buses are infrequent on Sundays and evenings, so plan your trip accordingly. If using a rideshare or taxi app, simply enter the postcode BN45 7FJ or “Route 23 Diner, Pyecombe” – drivers know the location. There is no tube/metro service in Brighton, so any public transit will involve returning to central Brighton for trains or night buses after a meal.
Inside the Venue
Inside, the atmosphere is friendly and casual. The walls are adorned with Americana and petroliana – even an old jukebox and vintage car posters add to the classic vibe. Reviewers often comment on the welcoming staff and spotless interior (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). When you arrive, feel free to seat yourself. Tea, coffee and simple drinks (water, sodas) are available at the counter. Expect your hot beverages in large diner mugs (the tea is strong and the coffee robust). Many customers appreciate the free tap water and toast with butter, which is offered at no extra charge while you wait. Free Wi-Fi is also provided, so you can check maps or stream music on your phone during the meal.
After ordering at the counter (cash or card accepted), sit back and relax. The dining room has several TVs that usually play news or sports quietly. It’s a casual crowd—families, tourists, and even bikers sharing tables—and conversation tends to be low-key. There is no coat check, but there are hooks by the entrance for jackets. If you need to freshen up, the restrooms (a separate cubicle for men and ladies) are clean and located just inside the door. Overall, Route 23 is more about good food and warm service than fancy amenities. Feel free to take pictures of your plate or the fun signs on the walls – there’s no rule against it, as long as you’re courteous to other diners.
Nearby Amenities
Other Dining: Route 23 Diner is the main food outlet at this postcode. If you’re looking for alternate spots, the nearest cafes or restaurants are in Patcham (about 1 mile south) or in Brighton city centre (6 miles away), both of which require a drive or longer bus trip. In Pyecombe itself, the rural hamlet has only a few farm shops and the small Sussex Yeoman Inn, which serves pub-style food and is about a five-minute walk north of the diner.Bars and Pubs: As noted, the Sussex Yeoman (pictured as a red-brick pub) is just up the road if you need a pint or sandwich after your meal. Otherwise, the bustling pub scene in Brighton (with craft breweries, gastropubs, etc.) is easily reached by car in under 15 minutes once you head back towards the city.Hotels: There are no major hotels adjacent to the diner. The closest accommodations are B&Bs and farm stays. For example, “Sussex Retreat” is a multi-bedroom country cottage on School Lane (BN45 7FQ) just a few streets away for those who want a rural overnight stay (www.silverdoor.com ). Most visitors seeking a hotel, however, head into Hassocks village (5–10 minutes north) or Brighton (10–20 minutes south) where a full range of inns and hotels is available.Travel Tips: Because this is essentially a country café, services wind down by mid-afternoon. Plan to arrive early in the morning if you want to avoid crowds – the diner's busiest period is about 8–11am on weekends. There is little public transit late in the day; the last bus north (towards Crawley) leaves early evening, so if you stay late it’s wise to have a taxi lined up. Likewise, after your meal, buses to the city run regularly if you want to head on to Brighton (for example, to catch late trains or enjoy the night scene). In short, Route 23 Diner works best as a breakfast or lunch stop – treat it as a convenient rest break, then continue your journey with peace of mind (Brighton’s 24-hour services are just a short drive away).
What Makes This Venue Special
Route 23 Diner stands apart because of its character and continuity. It has deliberately preserved the charm of a classic A-road café in an age of chains and motorway service centres. The retro decor and homey atmosphere are frequently mentioned by visitors (wanderlog.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). For example, one travel reviewer enthused about its “authentic diner decor” and free parking as part of the appeal (wanderlog.com ). Another wrote that they would “actually detour to come here rather than go to a chain” restaurant in Brighton (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), underscoring how much people value its unique vibe. Regulars love that it feels like home: stories abound of parents who used to stop here as children, now bringing their own families. The personal touch of the long-time owners, who often chat with customers about the menu or local news, adds to the draw.
The diner has also earned a reputation among certain groups. Motorcycle clubs and road-trippers have long used it as a meeting point – as one diner put it, it’s "a great diner for families and also a brilliant biker spot" (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The spacious parking and hearty meals make it ideal for groups on tour. In this way, Route 23 has maintained a special place in the local culture: it’s not merely a pit stop, but a friendly waypoint that people love because they can count on its consistent fare and warm service. In short, the combination of nostalgia, community spirit and practical convenience makes Route 23 Diner more than just an eating place – it’s a local legend on wheels for anyone visiting Brighton’s back door.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The diner is wheelchair-friendly and flat-roofed, with step-free access from the car park. Tables are spaced generously and one restroom stall is designated for disabled users. High chairs and booster seats are available, so families with toddlers can dine easily. If you require parking for a disability permit, simply use one of the empty spaces close to the entrance (parking is generous).
What to Bring: Dress is very casual here – tourists often come in travel gear, and locals wear anything from jeans to cycling kits. No fancy attire is needed. You might consider bringing some cash as a backup, but credit/debit cards are accepted at the till. (Many customers bring a few pounds in case they want to add a tip.) There’s no luggage storage or cloakroom, but belongings can be kept at your table. On cooler days or if you plan to sit outside, a light jacket might be prudent – the outdoor benches have a roof but still get breezy. Otherwise, all heating is on when it’s cold, so inside is snug.
Etiquette and Policies: Feel free to take photos of the vintage decor or your food (the diner is known for its “Instagrammable” breakfast plates). Just be mindful of other diners’ space and privacy. There is no smoking allowed indoors (it’s against UK law), but there is a small outside area where one can smoke. Alcohol isn’t a focus here – if you do drink beer or wine it will come from bottles/cans you bring or purchase (the diner does sell a few bottled drinks, but it’s not a bar with a permit, so don’t expect on-tap pints). Tipping is customary if service is good – 10–15% is normal, though many dishes are quite affordable to begin with.
Other: Because the diner can be busy, plan ahead for young children or big groups. If you’re with family, try to seat everyone together. If a queue forms at the door, it’s polite to let people ahead one by one. Keep an eye on your belongings (the atmosphere is friendly, but back pockets or phones should stay out of reach). If you have time to spare before a long drive, note that a BP petrol station is adjacent to the diner – so you can refuel your vehicle or grab snacks from the forecourt shop. Finally, on a clear day, the countryside views to the west are lovely; you can even take a short stroll (when parked) up Patcham Pyecombe Lane to enjoy the rural scenery. All in all, come relaxed, come hungry, and enjoy a slice of classic roadside Britain.
What is Route 23 Diner (BN45 7FJ) and what kind of place is it?
Route 23 Diner is the independent café located at postcode BN45 7FJ. It’s a retro American-style diner on London Road (A23) in Pyecombe (Brighton area) (route-23-diner.wheree.com ). It’s famous locally for its old-fashioned all-day breakfasts, large portion sizes, and nostalgic decor. In short, it’s a casual roadside eatery specializing in hearty British breakfast and lunch fare.
What are the opening hours of Route 23 Diner?
Route 23 Diner generally opens early for breakfast. The current hours are approximately 06:00–15:00 Monday through Saturday and 08:30–14:00 on Sunday (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). (Note: hours can change seasonally or for holidays.) There is no evening service; dinner is not served after mid-afternoon.
Do I need a reservation or can I just walk in?
No reservation or ticket is needed. Route 23 Diner operates on a walk-in basis, first-come first-served. You can simply show up during open hours and seat yourself. It’s wise to arrive early during busy weekend mornings, but otherwise just pour in, order at the counter, and enjoy.
Is there a dress code or any restrictions on what to wear?
No dress code is enforced. The diner welcomes guests in casual attire – from holiday wear to biking gear or school uniforms. Most people come as they are. Just be sensible (e.g. if arriving straight from a ride in heavy rain, bringing a dry spare shirt would help). Overall, comfortable, everyday clothing is fine for Route 23 Diner.
Are children allowed and is it family-friendly?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome. The diner is very family-friendly – it provides high chairs and booster seats at no extra charge. Families often stop here en route to Brighton or Brighton Zoo. The menu includes simple child-sized portions (e.g. eggs and toast), and there’s even a baby-changing table in the restroom. The casual environment makes it easy to dine with kids.
Is Route 23 Diner wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The diner is on one level with no steps required to enter, and tables are spacious enough for a wheelchair. There is an accessible (wide) restroom stall as well. Reviews specifically note that it is wheelchair accessible, with level parking and entrances. Ask the staff if you need assistance, as they are generally helpful.
Is there parking at Route 23 Diner?
Yes. There is a free car park on-site, and it’s quite generous. The premises can fit roughly 40 cars (www.daltonsbusiness.com ), so you won’t usually have to circle for space. Large vehicles, bikes, and even small camper vans are commonly parked there. Because parking is free and easy, many customers stop by car or motorcycle as part of their journey.
How can I reach Route 23 Diner by public transport?
Public transit options are limited. The nearest train station is Hassocks (about 4 km north) (www.doogal.co.uk ). From Hassocks or Brighton, you can take the Metrobus #273 along the A23 and alight at Pyecombe (Mill Lane stop), then walk ~10–15 minutes south on London Road to the diner. There is no direct bus stop at the diner itself, so a short walk is required. On Sundays or evenings buses run less frequently, so planning is advised. Most local visitors find it easiest to drive or take a taxi.
Does the diner serve vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes. The menu clearly labels vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. You can order veggie versions of full breakfasts (for example plant-based sausages or eggs) and there are meat-free alternatives like cheese omelettes and veggie sandwiches. Customer reviews and the menu both note that vegan and gluten-free options are available (wanderlog.com ) (wanderlog.com ). If you have a specific dietary need, just ask the staff – they accommodate variations whenever possible.
Do they accept credit/debit cards or is it cash-only?
Route 23 Diner accepts both cash and major credit/debit cards at the counter. Payment is made when you place your order. Travelers have reported successfully using contactless cards with no problem. There is no known restriction on card use – even visitors from out of town have paid by card without issue. However, it’s always wise to carry a few pounds in cash just in case of any reader glitches.
Are pets allowed at Route 23 Diner?
Pets are generally not allowed inside the diner for hygiene reasons. However, well-behaved dogs are usually permitted in the outdoor seating area. Many customers bring their dogs and sit at the picnic tables under the shelter. Always check with staff at the door, but most visitors report no trouble dining outside with a pet on a leash.
Is tipping expected at Route 23 Diner?
Tipping is not required but is customary in the UK if you’ve received table service. For diner cafes like Route 23, 10–15% of the bill is a common tip if the service is good. Many British customers simply leave small change or round up the bill. The staff here work hard and are paid reasonably, but tips are still appreciated. There is no automatic service charge.
Does Route 23 Diner offer takeaway or delivery?
Yes, Route 23 Diner offers takeout. There is a service hatch and takeaway counter as part of the setup (www.daltonsbusiness.com ). You can order your meal to go and pick it up at the counter or even by car. (Delivery services are not typical for this kind of roadside diner, though you could ask if local delivery apps cover the area.) Take-away coffee and boxed breakfasts are common; many travelers grab food on the run in the parking lot.
What’s included in a typical full English breakfast here?
A standard full cooked breakfast at Route 23 Diner typically includes eggs (fried or scrambled), bacon, sausage, beans, grilled tomato, mushrooms, and fried bread or toast with butter. Some meals also come with black pudding or extra items by request. Every breakfast plate comes with a free mug of tea or coffee and bread-and-butter on the side (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). It’s very filling – be prepared for large portions!
Are there hotels or holiday lodging near Route 23 Diner?
There are no hotel chains on London Road itself. The closest cottages and B&Bs are in Pyecombe village (for example, the “Sussex Retreat” 4-bedroom cottage a few minutes’ drive away (www.silverdoor.com )). Most travelers looking for hotels will stay in Hassocks or Brighton. Hassocks (5 miles north) has a few guesthouses, and Brighton (6 miles south) has many hotels and inns. So the simplest plan is to drive or take a short train ride back to Brighton for overnight stays after dining at Route 23.
