Brighton is Britain’s biggest drawcard in the summer with its vibrant seaside locales. Its colorful, bohemian vibe pulls in the crowds, hell-bent on having a good time. Hotels in Brighton England, spill over at this time of year, especially the best hotels on Brighton seafront. The hotels echo the city’s fun, creative atmosphere with artwork and paintings by local artists adorning their spaces. Many of the best hotels in Brighton, UK, are housed in refurbished townhouses and mansions that feature some stylish yet quirky decor.
Brighton is where people head to have a good time. Apart from the vibrant beaches, it’s renowned for having the best clubbing scene in England and has the UK’s biggest gay scene. The city is unapologetically hedonistic. That aside, Brighton has a fair number of other attractions that bring in regular tourists, such as the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and the i360 Tower.
Where to Stay in Brighton
Since Brighton is a popular weekend escape for Londoners, given that London is only about 70 km from here, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Brighton, England, to suit all kinds of budgets. In fact, some of the best hotels in Brighton seafront are mid-range properties.
None of the seafront hotels are actually on the beach, though. Many of the best hotels in Brighton seafront are on Marine Parade that runs parallel to the sea. That being said, it’s hardly a two to five-minute walk from most of these hotels. Another great location close to the sea is lively Kemptown with its flea market. It’s also where you’ll find many gay-friendly hotels in Brighton, England.
If you’re in this part of the county for more than the sea, a good place to base yourself would be in North Laine. This is where some of the most happening spaces in town are. It has a distinctly bohemian vibe with its indie shops, flea markets, and art.
The Brighton city center is also a great place if you’re here for the city’s tourist attractions. While there are many chain hotels in the city center, some of the best hotels in Brighton, UK, are the smaller boutique hotels. The train station is also close by, so it’s an easy stop if you’re commuting from London by train.
For budget-friendly accommodation, check out the Lanes shopping district. Some of the best hotels in Brighton, UK are found in this area too. This historic district is within easy walking distance from the Brighton Palace Pier and other attractions.
Jury’s Inn Waterfront
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After a recent revamp, Jury’s Inn Waterfront stands out as one of the best hotels in Brighton England. Located diagonally opposite Brighton pier, it offers the best views of the sea from some of its rooms. Besides awarding you with some great views, the hotel also puts you within easy reach of the city’s restaurants.
Though the exterior of the hotel may appear cold and concrete, the interiors are quite the opposite. Public spaces and guest rooms have been upgraded to add a touch of character and charm. The atrium is a welcoming space with white-sprayed willow arrangements and plenty of seating. It’s a popular hangout with locals who meet here for coffee or cocktails. While the rooms do have a corporate feel to them, they’re quite spacious and fresh. Extremely comfortable beds, modern amenities, and clean bathrooms make for a great stay. Request a sea-facing room to get the best of your stay here.
What makes this one of the best hotels in Brighton seafront are the facilities outside the room. You’ll find a small pool and well-equipped gym in the basement, plus a reasonably priced salon near the atrium. Indulge in a facial or pedicure at Pecksniffs Pamper Studio. Also, at the atrium, you’ll find Atrium Bar that offers cocktails and a good range of craft beers. There’s also a supervised kids’ zone.
The Seaview bar and lounge on the Promenade is a good option if you’ve got kids with you. Here you can enjoy bistro-style food as well as themed specials like afternoon tea. We recommend the restaurant for its panoramic sea views and affordable food.
A Room With A View
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A Room With A View is exactly what you’ll get if you choose to stay at this Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse. As far as views go, this is definitely one of the best hotels in Brighton seafront. While the hotel does occupy a premium spot opposite the beach near the Palace Pier, it’s also on a busy stretch of road. Located in an area known as Kemp Town, it’s an easy stroll from here to Brighton city center.
The hotel has 10 rooms spread over four floors. Barring one room with a garden view, all the other rooms look out onto the sea. Each room has its own special character with pale pastels and tasteful decor. The Deluxe rooms are especially spacious with extra windows. Also worth checking out is the rooftop balcony sea view room. This cozy room has a paddle staircase that leads to a private rooftop terrace with stunning sea views. All rooms come equipped with a good range of modern comforts to enhance your stay. However, one thing to note is the property does not have an elevator, so it is a climb to the top floors.
Given the size of the property, there’s no onsite restaurant, but breakfast is served in the morning room. If the room you choose does not include breakfast, you can add this on when checking in. You’ll find plenty of restaurants in the vicinity for other dining options.
Blanch House
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The luxurious adults-only Blanch House is another hotel that occupies a Grade II-listed townhouse. Just off the seafront in Kemp Town, you’ll find this elegant hotel with its charming decor. At this location, you’re not far from shops, cafes, and restaurants. A five-minute stroll will take you to the beach and Palace Pier. Given its great location and proximity to many attractions, the hotel stands out as one of the best hotels in Brighton seafront.
The excellent service at this boutique hotel pushes it right up the list of the best hotels in Brighton, UK. Whether it’s a smooth check-in or dinner reservations you’re looking for, be assured you’ll get all this and more here. 12 individually styled rooms occupy the four floors of this townhouse. The luxury Feature Rooms at the front of the hotel feature Georgian floor-to-ceiling bow bay windows with side sea views. The opulent decor doffs its hat to the building’s Georgian heritage. The Superior Double Rooms, on the other hand, are more spacious and ideal for longer stays. You’ll also find cozier accommodation in the modest double rooms. No matter which room you choose to occupy, you can be sure of a luxurious, comfortable experience.
You won’t find an in-house restaurant at the hotel, but guests enjoy a good breakfast spread, included in the rate. There’s also a Champagne & Cocktail Lounge where you can unwind at the end of the day.
Artist Residence Brighton
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Many of the best hotels in Brighton, England are gorgeous boutique hotels such as the Artist Residence Brighton. This Regency townhouse is both stylish and quirky at the same time. The hotel enjoys an enviable location at the top of grassy Regency Square. This prime position allows for some impressive sea views, which pushes this hotel up to the top of the list of best hotels in Brighton seafront. From here, it’s a two-minute walk to Brighton seafront and the beach. It’s also a short walk from all the main attractions that make Brighton special.
Each of the 24 rooms at the hotel stands out in its own right. Decorated by various artists, the rooms are a gorgeous blend of original artist murals and eclectic style. Some rooms offer unparalleled sea views. All bedrooms come with a good range of comforts. Some bedrooms are quite small and aptly named Tiny, while the Bigger Balcony Sea View room is possibly the best in the house. It features a floor-to-ceiling bay window that leads out to a pretty balcony overlooking West Pier. You’ll also find a super-king four-poster bed and a copper roll-top bathtub that’s big enough for two in the bedroom.
The Clubhouse is a neighborhood hangout that brings in the locals with its welcoming vibe. It’s where you can indulge in cocktails, coffee, or a sumptuous breakfast. The cafe and bar are open all day from eight in the morning.
Nineteen
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Nineteen ticks all the right boxes in a stylish, six-bedroom B&B in a converted 200-year old Victorian townhouse. It has a central location just moments from the beach and other attractions such as the pier, Pavilion, and Lanes, making this one of the best smaller hotels in Brighton, England. The downside to this location, though is the noise from the street. However, keeping this in mind, you’ll find earplugs in the rooms.
Natural light floods most of the decently sized rooms at the property that feature dark oak flooring. Like most boutique hotels in Brighton England each bedroom has its own individual flair. Contemporary colors and modern art pieces adorn many of the rooms. While all rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, the Superior rooms come with bathtub shower combinations. The most exclusive room is the Brighton Gin Room. It features a fun mural of Brighton’s landscape by artist Hizze Fletcher and a chandelier. You’ll also find complimentary Brighton Gin goodies.
Given the size of the property, you won’t find many other facilities here. However, in normal times a continental breakfast is included in the rate. It’s a good spread of fresh fruit, muffins, cereal, yogurt, and a host of other specials.
The White House
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The White House may not be as elaborate as its namesake in Washington, but this stylish B&B stands out as one of the best hotels in Brighton, UK. With its whitewashed walls and wrought-iron balconies, the Victorian villa is a sight for sore eyes. It enjoys a good location just five minutes from the beach and is also a short walk to the center of Brighton.
Beach-themed prints and candy-striped carpets vie for space at this stylish B&B. Guests can choose from 10 individual rooms that differ in size. While all the double rooms are fully ensuite, the two single rooms have a shared toilet. To make up for this, fluffy white bathrobes are provided for these two rooms. However, the single rooms do have a shower and basin within the room. All rooms have a flatscreen TV, free WiFi, complimentary toiletries by The White Company, and a refreshment tray. If you’re looking for more space, we suggest booking the luxurious Suite with its relaxing lounge area and private balcony.
Breakfast is included in the rate and comprises a top-notch full English breakfast. It’s served in the dining room on the lower ground floor, where the menu is scrawled on a large blackboard. The B&B has achieved the Sussex breakfast award, so you can be sure it’s going to be quite a treat.
Hotel Una
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If you’re looking for the best hotels in Brighton seafront, Hotel Una fits that description well. With its quirky decor and excellent location, this hotel definitely stands out. The hotel is just a stone’s throw from the beach and offers beautiful views of the historical West Pier and i360.
The recently converted Regency townhouse has 20 individually designed rooms that range from small bedrooms to spacious suites. Contrasting textures, natural wood, and unique artwork fill the hotel’s spaces, adding to its charm. It beautifully blends the old and the new with high ceilings, stone fireplaces, and refurbished original coving. The guest rooms are truly gorgeous with wood floors, crisp white linen, and tasteful artwork. Each is named after a famous river and boasts a good range of amenities.
Guests wake up to an impressive breakfast that’s included in the room rate. Other dining options are close to the hotel, so you won’t have to worry about that part. At the end of the day, you can unwind with a cocktail or wine at the Una Bar. Cocktail classes and tastings are also available upon request.
The Ginger Pig
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The Ginger Pig might be more renowned for its pub, but the accommodation here is top-notch too. It’s one of the best hotels in Brighton seafront that allows you some distance from the madding crowd. Located at the bottom of Hove Street, it’s about two minutes to the quieter beaches of the city. However, Brighton’s center is about a 15-minute walk or a five-minute bus ride from here, so if you want to be closer to the bustle, this place may not suit you. That being said, there are plenty of good restaurants in the vicinity.
Guest rooms are a pleasant surprise for a pub. Charcoal grey walls, original artwork, and tasteful furnishings adorn the rooms. The rooms are spread over two floors, with five attic rooms on the top and six deluxe rooms on the first floor. All rooms feature ensuite bathrooms with oversized showers or stand-alone bathtubs. The two luxury rooms are extremely spacious, with a free-standing bath inside the room. Besides the tasteful decor, you’ll also find a good range of amenities to enhance your stay.
While breakfast is not included in the rate, you can enjoy a good breakfast served in the restaurant bar area for an additional fee. If you decide to stay at the hotel, make sure you also check out the pub. Traditional food sourced from Sussex’s finest suppliers is served, and menus are updated regularly. There’s also a separate bar snack menu and cocktails. The popularity of the pub can be gauged from the bustling crowd. Make sure to stick around for their Sunday roasts if you’re in town on the weekend.
The Oriental
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Another of the best hotels in Brighton UK that occupy a Grade II-listed Regency villa is The Oriental. The hotel was once the notorious ‘Brighton Belle’ nightclub with Boy George and Norman Cook spinning out tunes here. However, today, all that remains of its past are the high ceilings and ornate stucco.
The Oriental has been under Lola O’Keefe and her loyal Boston terrier, Luna, since 2012. Her family’s long association with B&Bs is evident in the hospitality and the little extra touches that go into making your stay here a memorable experience. The nine individual rooms are chic and comfortable, with enough natural light filtering in through large windows. Apart from the standard amenities, you’ll also find a complimentary snack basket and L’Occitane toiletries.
For breakfast, you’ll need to head to the open-plan bar area between 8 am to 9:30 am on weekdays. A packed breakfast can be organized for someone in a hurry. All breakfasts are cooked to order. When you’re done with your explorations of the area, take a break at the bar to sample a delicious cocktail or sip on a chilled beer. The lounge also has a selection of board games for you to choose from.
My Brighton
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If you’re someone who loves flea markets, indie shops and is more interested in the city’s boho scene, then My Brighton is the place for you. Its location within the bohemian cultural quarter of North Laine will put you right in your comfort zone. Should you need to break away for a walk on the beach, that’s within easy walking distance too!
Designed in 2008 as a bolthole for those wanting to get away for a little while, the hotel’s plain exterior belies what lies within. Think porthole windows, curvy walls, pod-shaped bathrooms, and Lego-style linoleum flooring. Huge crystals in the lobby and handcrafted furniture make the lobby a good place to hang out. 79 tasteful guest rooms occupy three floors. The corner suites are especially bright and spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows, a circular Roche Bobois bed, and an open-plan bathroom. If you feel like splurging, the Penthouse Carousel suite is definitely worth it. It has a lavish four-poster bed, a standalone bathtub, and a shower steam room.
Kick start your evening at Merkaba, the hotel’s award-winning cocktail bar. With an ever-changing drinks menu, every visit here is a surprise. Breakfast is served at The Cafe until 12 pm during the week. Alternatively, you could start your day with a healthy brunch that features freshly prepared dishes from the cafe. Just next door is The Chilli Pickle, one of Brighton’s renowned Indian restaurants, that dishes out lip-smacking curries.
Drakes Hotel
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One of the most romantic hotels in Brighton, England is undoubtedly Drakes Hotel, a favorite with Kylie Minogue and Cate Blanchett. Its enviable location and charming decor also stand out as one of the best hotels in Brighton seafront. It’s just a 10-minute walk to the Royal Pavilion and The Lanes from here.
You can look forward to top-notch service at this boutique hotel right from your welcome to when you leave. Individually designed guest rooms ooze style and character with large dollops of modern comforts. Check out the Feature Rooms for their decadence and extra touches. Indulge yourself as you sink into the free-standing bathtub set against floor-to-ceiling windows in the bedroom, or relax on the Nobilis chaise lounge in these rooms. One of the sea view rooms and city rooms also features a free-standing bath looking out onto the sea.
Enjoy a fine dining experience at Amarillo, the in-house restaurant run by renowned Chef Ian Swainson. It’s open in the evenings from Tuesday to Saturday. At the restaurant, you can tantalize your tastebuds with Michelin star-style cuisine. Before you settle down for a meal here, you may want to enjoy bespoke cocktails or premium spirits at The Bar.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Brighton:
- Walking Food Tour – Discover Brighton’s history as you eat your way through this two-hour walking food tour. You’ll get to enjoy four differnt food and drink tastings and also learn about Brighton’s cultural diversity.
- Bottomless Afternoon Tea -If you enjoy your tea you’ll definitely enjoy free flowing prosecco for two hours until 4 pm. Apart from tea you can also enjoy tea specials like chocolate mousse and fruit scones amongst other delights.
- Black Lion Brighton – One of the better known pubs in Brighton, the Black Lion serves some excellent gastro comfort food as well as some of the best cocktails in town.
Recommended Activities in Brighton:
- Brighton Palace Pier – A visit to Brighton would be incomplete without a visit to this Grade II-listed pleasure pier. What makes this pier even more special is that it’s a over a century old, having survived two world wars. There’s plenty to do in the area with fairground rides, bars and restaurants.
- Sea Life Brighton – It’s worth a quick jaunt to the world’s oldest aquarium that’s been in existence since 1872. You won’t just be mesmerized by the sea creatures but the original Gothic arches of the building are worth checking out.
- Book a Local Host – What better way to get to know a city than through the eyes and knowledge of a local. Based on your intersts and personality you’ll be matched to a local guide.
