The best places to stay in Brighton: The hotel edit
Beautiful, bohemian Brighton is one of the quirkiest of British seaside resorts, home to celebrities and a magnet for people drawn to its art and culture scene.
Brighton is a popular destination for day trips and short breaks on the south coast of England. There’s a variety of attractions like the Royal Pavilion, the seaside fun of Brighton Palace Pier and the eclectic boutiques of the Lanes with plenty more besides. With so many great things to do in Brighton you’ll want to stay a while. Here’s all you need to know about the best hotels in Brighton.
We’ve compiled a list of the best places to stay in Brighton, with something to suit every taste. We’ve tried to strike a balance between luxury, affordable and mid-range hotels in Brighton. Our selection features the best choice of 5* Brighton hotels, including the Victorian elegance of the Brighton Grand, great value modern hotels like the Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront, and small unique boutique hotels with a real Brighton vibe like the fabulous Artist Residence.
Whether you want a 4-star hotel with a sea view or a hotel in a quieter part of this popular seaside town, we’ve got you covered. We’ve stayed in these hotels so this list of top Brighton hotels comes to you with first-hand experience.
If you know the city then you’ll know that parking in Brighton can be a challenge. Understatement. So we’ve also included details for parking at each hotel.
>>> Read more: 22 cool things to do in Brighton – a local’s guide
The Grand Brighton
The doormen at Brighton’s original ‘Palace By The Sea’ have been welcoming guests to the Grand Brighton since 1864. It’s the perfect Brighton hotel for celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself to a luxurious stay in Brighton. If you’re looking for an exclusive seafront property in Brighton with panoramic views The Grand is it.
The 5-star Grand Brighton’s magnificent Renaissance facade has recently been restored to its original splendour. Once inside, the Grand Hotel’s elegant Art Deco interior retains original features like the dramatic sweeping staircase and emerald marble pillars, complemented by thoughtful touches of contemporary design.
The 201 sophisticated rooms at this luxury hotel feature crisp white Egyptian cotton bed linen, fluffy Grand Brighton robes, and pampering Noble Isle toiletries. Alongside this old-style luxury, you’ll find all the modern essentials you could need, including a flatscreen TV and complimentary WiFi. Many of the hotel rooms enjoy seafront balconies with fabulous views that stretch down to the ruins of the West Pier.
You can enjoy an unparalleled front-row view of Brighton’s seafront while sipping a cocktail in the hotel’s elegant cocktail bar and terrace, treat yourself to a Sussex cream tea or enjoy a delicious meal from the contemporary menu at the Cyan restaurant.
The hotel provides limited private parking to guests on a first-come, first-served basis. And when you’re ready to explore Brighton, the great location on Brighton’s seafront means you’re just a short walk from all the main Brighton tourist attractions, including Brighton Palace Pier, the Royal Pavilion and the Brighton i360 (formerly the British Airways i360).
The Grand Hotel Brighton, 97-99 Kings Rd, Brighton BN1 2FW
>>> Check rates and availability for the Grand Brighton
If you love a grand seaside hotel you might like to read our review of The Grand Hotel Eastbourne.
Artist Residence, Brighton
Artist Residence Brighton embodies the city’s eccentric and artistic spirit and represents Brighton’s individuality and creative charm. Part of a small chain of boutique hotels, its cosy, bohemian air makes it the perfect location for a weekend getaway with friends. If you’re looking for a hotel with character, this is it.
Set in restored Regency buildings in Regency Square on Brighton seafront, Artist Residence Brighton’s eclectic style stems from its unusual practice of offering free board to local artists in return for their artworks. Retro furnishings and opulent colours mix with eye-catching murals and artworks by artists like Jessica Albarn and the “Father of stencil graffiti” Blek le Rat.
The chic bedrooms have super-comfy beds, sumptuous linens, a fully stocked mini-bar, a Nespresso coffee machine and vintage furniture. The ensuite bathrooms are equally divine, featuring rainfall showers or roll-top baths and organic Bramley toiletries. Some rooms enjoy breathtaking views over the seafront towards the West Pier and the Brighton i360.
The Artist Residence Brighton’s hotel bar serves clever cocktails like the signature Bakewell Sour in a space that mixes exposed brickwork with velvet cocktail chairs. And the hotel restaurant celebrates Brighton’s local produce with a seasonal menu featuring fresh oysters and local fish. Artist Residence also serves up an exceptional breakfast.
There are plenty of excellent restaurants just a short walk from the hotel. You’re also about 20 minutes away from the quirky shopping experience of the North Laines and the city’s lively clubs and bars.
There’s no on-site parking; however, paid parking is available directly opposite the hotel.
>>> Check rates and availability at Artist Residence Brighton
Artist Residence, 33 Regency Square, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2GG
Drakes Hotel
The two Georgian townhouses that make up the boutique 4-star Drakes Hotel look out over the iconic Brighton Palace Pier. This fabulous location, stunning Art Deco-style details and cool cocktail bar all make Drakes a favourite with locals, tourists and celebrities alike.
Drakes Hotel has 20 fully air-conditioned rooms, where you can envelop yourself in Egyptian cotton sheets and velvet throws on the supremely comfortable ‘Vi Spring’ beds. All hotel rooms have complimentary WiFi, refreshments and Green & Spring toiletries, while some also have a freestanding tub where you can relax while you soak in the city or sea views.
Along with the fabulous seafront location, guests at Drakes Hotel also enjoy award-winning fine dining at the Michelin-recommended Dilsk restaurant. The menu features seasonal ingredients from local East Sussex producers and ethical suppliers.
The hotel’s 24-hour lounge bar serves classic and contemporary cocktails, craft beers, and a range of wines and champagnes. It’s the ideal spot to start your day with a coffee or end the evening over a nightcap with friends.
14 parking spaces are available to guests on a first-come, first-served basis, and further on-street parking is available nearby.
>>> Check rates and availability for Drakes Hotel
Drakes Hotel, Marine Parade, Kemptown, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 1PE
Check out our review of the contemporary Port Hotel, Eastbourne
Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel
Formerly known as the Norfolk Hotel, the 4-star Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel is housed in a stunning Grade II Listed building that dates back to 1864. It looks out over the promenade, beach and sea and is undoubtedly one of the best hotels Brighton has to offer.
Inside, you’ll find traditional features like the original Regency staircase that sweeps up to 116 newly renovated bedrooms. Each charming room retains Victorian era details that recall the hotel’s rich history while providing the modern comforts that make your stay memorable. All rooms have incredibly comfy beds, tea/coffee facilities, flatscreen TV, free WiFi, and a well-equipped ensuite bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
The luxe Privilege rooms offer robes, slippers, a Nespresso coffee machine and, in many cases, sea views. And if you really want to splash out, you could book the spacious Junior Suite with its king-size bed, balcony and stunning sea views.
The Goulty brasserie restaurant overlooks the sea, making it the perfect place to enjoy afternoon tea in Brighton or sip a cocktail as you watch the sun set.
The hotel’s prime seafront location makes it the perfect base for exploring the famous Lanes and North Laine area of Brighton. It stands directly opposite Brighton’s famous bandstand and is a 5-minute walk from the i360 observation tower.
On-site parking at the Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel costs £28 per night but is limited to around 20 spaces.
>>> Check rates and availability at Mercure Brighton Seafront Hotel
Mercure Hotel Brighton, 149 Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2PP
>>> Read more: 22 cool things to do in Brighton – a local’s guide
Brighton Hotel du Vin
The alluring Hotel du Vin Brighton is one of the most elegant places to stay in Brighton. This refined boutique hotel is housed in a collection of restored 1800s buildings in the captivating former fishing village of The Lanes. The combination of Victorian elegance, Gothic architecture and modern convenience is unique.
Step inside, and you’ll discover that each of the luxurious rooms and suites blends historic charm with contemporary comforts. Handsprung mattresses, fine Egyptian cotton linens and lavish furnishings create the perfect setting for relaxation with the addition of modern luxuries like plasma TVs, Nespresso machines, drench showers and underfloor heating. All rooms benefit from complimentary high-speed WiFi; some also have the signature Hotel du Vin roll-top bath.
If good food is high on your list of priorities, dining at the Parisian-style Bistro du Vin will delight you with a modern European menu highlighting some of Brighton’s best local produce. The Sommelier can recommend the perfect wines to pair with your meal, and you can also sample wines from every corner of the world in the Laroche tasting room.
The intimate and stylish bar serves a selection from the hotel’s extensive wine cellars and a range of handcrafted cocktails. Next door, you’ll find the cosy and relaxed Pub du Vin, which offers a range of unusual bottled beers alongside locally brewed ales.
With all of this and the city’s sights right on the hotel’s doorstep, it’s no wonder the Brighton Hotel du Vin is regularly picked among the top places to stay in Brighton.
Hotel du Vin Brighton has no private parking, but several paid car parks are available within 0.5 miles.
Hotel du Vin, 2 Ship St, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1AD
>>> Check rates and availability for Hotel du Vin Brighton
DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole
Once mainly reserved for conference attendees, the elegant 4-star Hilton Brighton Metropole hotel has recently had a multi-million pound revamp that restored its Victorian-era elegance.
Originally built in 1890, the DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole’s new look combines classic period features with chic modern decor. The spacious bedrooms have comfortable beds and crisp linens. All come with complimentary toiletries, high-speed WiFi and flatscreen TV with on-demand movies, while some also enjoy panoramic views over the sea.
The newly-restored 1890 At The Met restaurant serves breakfast under original Victorian chandeliers, while the Metropole Bar & Terrace offers sumptuous cream teas, bottomless brunch and bespoke cocktails. If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood and premium steaks cooked over charcoal, The Salt Room is a charming, contemporary restaurant with sea views.
The DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole has a fabulous beachfront location, just a few minutes from Brighton’s main attractions like the Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier and the Sea Life Centre. The hotel also has an on-site spa and health club where you can relax with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and spa treatments.
>>> Check rates and availability at Hilton Brighton Metropole
On-site parking is available for guests at a cost of £25 per day.
DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole, Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2FU
>>> Check out the best beaches in East Sussex
Harbour Hotel and Spa, Brighton
You’ll find Brighton’s only spa at the Brighton Harbour Hotel & Spa, the only luxury hotel on the famous Brighton promenade. Located just a stone’s throw from Brighton Beach, the gloriously Victorian building is filled with stylish contemporary touches that make this one of the best places to stay in Brighton.
The hotel’s 79 rooms and suites are packed to the brim with seaside charm, from the nautical stripes on the bedding and furnishings to the beautiful Art Deco-style prints. Each has a super-comfy super king-size bed, waterfall shower or freestanding bathtub, tea/coffee facilities, mini bar and flatscreen TV. Most rooms have views of the seafront or the Brighton i360, and there’s even a complimentary gin decanter to toast your stay in Brighton.
When it’s time for dinner, you can visit one of the many excellent restaurants nearby, Shelter Hall on the promenade opposite serves up a range of street food from various indoor stalls. Or you could head to the hotel’s retro-style HarBAR + Kitchen for a contemporary cocktail and a bite to eat. When you’re ready to unwind after exploring the nearby Lanes and Royal Pavilion, the underground HarSpa has a heated pool, sauna and steam room. If you love a dip in a hot tub you’ll find those too. Bring your swimmers.
There’s no on-site parking at the Brighton Harbour Hotel & Spa, but various paid parking options are available nearby.
>>> Check rates and availability for Brighton Harbour Hotel & Spa
Harbour Hotel Brighton, 64 Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 1NA
Malmaison Brighton Marina
Brighton city centre is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, but if you’d rather stay in a quieter part of town, the Malmaison Brighton Marina is one of the best places to stay in Brighton. This modern hotel looks out over Brighton Marina, around 2 miles from the town centre. It’s the best area to choose if you want a quiet location that’s still within easy reach of the main Brighton tourist attractions.
The contemporary decor and clean lines in the hotel rooms and suites give them a light and relaxing air. You’ll find all the amenities you could want, including luxurious beds, flatscreen TVs, free Wi-Fi and ensuites with monsoon showers.
The Malmaison Brighton Marina has a lively bar with marina views and a large restaurant located in a conservatory with a terrace. This is a great spot to drink in the fabulous sea views while enjoying a menu showcasing contemporary British food and locally sourced ingredients. They also serve a fabulous afternoon tea if you feel like spoiling yourself!
This is the perfect hotel for exploring the shops, restaurants and leisure facilities at the Brighton Marina, as well as the nearby Brighton tourist attractions like the Brighton Palace Pier and the quirky Lanes.
Malmaison Brighton Marina provides free parking for hotel guests.
>>> Check rates and availability for Malmaison Brighton Marina
Malmaison Brighton, The Waterfront, Brighton Marina, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 5WA
Hotel Pelirocco
If elegant Victorian hotels don’t really do it for you, you might just love Hotel Pelirocco. Situated in two combined Regency townhouses on Regency Square, Hotel Pelirocco is a Brighton boutique hotel with a very different vibe.
Of course, you can expect to see all the usual mod-cons, like flat-screen TVs and tea/coffee-making facilities. But when it comes to styling, the 19 individually themed rooms have a cool modern decor inspired by rock’n’roll and glamour. Think vivid colours, luxurious fabrics, mirrored ceilings and jacuzzis – it’s all very cheeky and very Brighton!
The hotel’s Playstation Bar mixes up cocktails from an imaginative list, and you can pre-order drinks to be waiting in your room at check-in time.
You can also tailor your Hotel Pelirocco stay to suit your own tastes. Add a relaxing massage from the hotel’s in-house massage therapist, or make a romantic weekend more memorable with a Koibito love hamper. You can even book a Boudoir photoshoot in your themed room for a lasting keepsake of your time in Brighton.
Hotel Pelirocco’s Regency Square location means you’re close to Brighton train station and all the major tourist sights, and surrounded by fabulous bars, clubs and restaurants. There’s no on-site parking, but you’ll find several options for paid car parking near the hotel, the nearest being a two minute walk away.
>>> Check rates and availability at Hotel Pelirocco
Hotel Pelirocco, 10 Regency Square, Brighton BN1 2FG
>>> Check out the best beaches in East Sussex
Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront
Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront is one of the best mid-range hotels in Brighton. It may not be as elegant as the Grand Brighton or as quirky as Hotel Pelirocco, but it makes up for that with a fantastic Kings Road location and well-priced facilities.
The recently refurbished hotel has a bright and welcoming Open Lobby with a restaurant serving gourmet burgers, premium cocktails and local craft beers. Plenty of space and a ‘We Proudly Serve Starbucks kiosk’ make it a great place to relax or catch up on emails.
The modern rooms at the Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront are stylish and airy, with air conditioning, satellite TV with pay-per-view movies, complimentary toiletries and tea/coffee-making facilities. They all have sea views, and some enjoy a sea-facing balcony.
As well as the Open Lobby bar and restaurant, 24-hour room service is available, and the hotel’s exclusive terrace is the ideal place to enjoy the sun and views of the Brighton I360.
The Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront’s location means you’re right in the heart of the city. It’s a few steps away from the famous pebble beach and bandstand, while attractions like the Lanes, Sea Life Brighton, and Royal Pavilion are just a short walk away.
The hotel’s on-site car park offers 60 parking spaces at £20 per day, with discounts available for IHG Rewards Club members.
>>> Check rates and availability at Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront
Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront, 137 Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2JF
Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront
Formerly known as the Jury’s Inn Brighton Waterfront, the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront is one of the top places to stay in Brighton’s seafront area.
The hotel is just a few moments away from the iconic Brighton Palace Pier, and sights like the Brighton Pavilion and the bohemian Lanes quarter are within a short walk. With stylish rooms, fantastic amenities and leisure facilities, it has everything you need for a fun stay in Brighton. That’s why people come back to stay at the Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront time and time again.
The hotel has 210 rooms including some wheelchair accessible rooms and many with views onto the Brighton Palace pier. Each air-conditioned room is styled with contemporary decor and boasts a luxurious Dream bed with crisp white bed linen, a Freeview flatscreen TV, and free WiFi. Each room also enjoys a spacious ensuite bathroom and complimentary spa toiletries.
The hotel’s Bar and Grill offers a range of light bites and hearty meals, plus a great selection of drinks. You can also enjoy a cocktail under the impressive glass ceiling of the Atrium Bar or relax with a drink outside the Seaview bar while you take in the fabulous views of the promenade, pier and seafront.
If you’re feeling more active, the hotel’s leisure facilities include a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, steam room and sauna, all available to hotel guests at no extra charge.
The hotel has no on-site parking, but hotel guests enjoy discounted parking at The Lanes car park underneath the hotel.
Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront, Kings Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 2GS
If you’re looking to stay near Brighton station then there’s the Leonardo Hotel Brighton about 3 minute’s walk from the Station.
>>> Check rates and availability for Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront
Ibis Brighton City Centre Station
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly room that’s a comfortable and clean then Ibis Brighton City Centre – Station is a good place to stay. Close to Brighton’s famous attractions such as the Brighton Palace Pier, Royal Pavilion, and the buzzy North Laine area, it also has Brighton station on the doorstep.
Ibis Brighton City Centre Station is modern, clean and conveniently placed to public transport links so you could explore further afield without overstretching your budget. This is a cost-effective stay so rooms aren’t huge and they’re fairly basic but they have everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay including tea and coffee in the room.
We’ve used this hotel a couple of times for attending events in Brighton and have been quite happy with it. The breakfasts are pretty average but there are plenty of cafes and good coffee shops nearby. Staff have always been friendly and helpful. If you’re a member of the Accor loyalty scheme you can save points to get some decent discounts which is great for budget-savvy travellers.
The hotel provides discounted parking in the nearby multi-storey car park which is less than 5-minutes walk away. Or there’s parking at Brighton Station which is just a few minute’s walk away.
>>> Check rates and availability for Ibis Brighton City Centre – Station
Ibis City Centre, 88-92 Queens Rd, East Sussex, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN1 3XE
Parking in Brighton
As I already mentioned, we’ve included details of parking at the above hotels. Be warned though, parking in the city of Brighton is expensive. When we stay in Brighton we park a little further out. There’s free (and paid) on-road parking in West Hove and Portslade close to the seafront and it’s easy get the bus into Brighton from there. The 700 Coastliner bus runs every 10-minutes. Alternatively get the train. Brighton station is a 15 minute walk to Brighton seafront.
Best places to Stay in Brighton, East Sussex FAQs
What are the best areas to stay in Brighton?
The best areas to stay in Brighton depend on your preferences. Brighton seafront is ideal for those looking for picturesque views, immediate beach access and that special Brighton vibe. As far I’m concerned Brighton seafront is one of the best places to stay in Brighton.
Brighton city centre offers proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment like the Theatre Royal but you won’t get any sea views, parking can be tricky and it might be noisy. There’s more of a range of B&Bs and very small hotels than larger chains in the city centre.
Kemptown is popular with LGBTQ visitors for its unique character and vibrant atmosphere.
Can I find good hotels in Brighton with a sea view?
Yes! Brighton is all about the seaside and you can find a good choice of hotels in Brighton that offer stunning sea views. These typically line the city’s seafront, providing guests with easy access to the beach and breathtaking panoramas of the English Channel. Because the seafront faces south you’ll be able to indulge in both sunrise and sunset.
Is there pet-friendly accommodation in Brighton?
Many hotels and guest houses in Brighton are pet-friendly and happy to welcome guests and their furry friends. It’s always recommended to check the hotel’s policy before booking to ensure pets are welcome and if additional fees apply.
How much should I expect to spend on accommodation in Brighton?
Accommodation rates in Brighton vary significantly based on type, location, and time of year.
During peak season, the Brighton festival in May and during Gay Pride, Brighton’s hotels will be at a premium. Budget-friendly options are available for those looking to save, while those seeking luxury can expect higher rates for premium amenities and views. Book in advance – prices tend to increase closer to the date of stay.
The best time to come to Brighton if you’re looking to explore the city and its attractions is shoulder season before things get to busy. Always check your dates beforehand because the city is a popular destination for conferences and events which might also affect rates and availability.
So, that’s our pick of some of our favourite places to stay in Brighton. As you can see there’s a good mix of accommodation in our Brighton hotel guide. From luxury hotels with stunning sea views, quirky boutique hotels and budget-friendly stays that don’t compromise the local vibe. Whichever your choice we hope you’ll enjoy a memorable Brighton seaside escape.
>>> Read more: 22 cool things to do in Brighton – a local’s guide
