Photo: Bryan Dearsley / LuxuryUK
Updated July 13, 2024 / Commissions may be earned from LuxuryUK’s affiliate partners
Just an hour’s train ride south of London, the seaside resort city of Brighton is one of the UK’s most popular vacation retreats. And it’s a great place for a getaway when the heat of the summer gets to you.
A former fishing village located at the foot of the South Downs in East Sussex, the city became a fashionable health resort in the 18th century, frequented by royalty and celebrities. Today, Brighton’s luxury hotels, trendy cafés, superlative restaurants, great shopping and lively nightlife make it the perfect staycation beach holiday.
Ideal for families, groups of friends, or those looking for a romantic weekend à deux, Brighton offers visitors a superb selection of boutique hotels, many within walking distance of the seafront and that famous pebble beach.
From cozy Brighton B&Bs to exquisite Hove retreats, here are some of our favourite places to stay and boutique hotels in Brighton.
The Best Boutique Hotels in Brighton
Artist Residence Brighton
For a 3-star hotel, the Artist Residence Brighton certainly doesn’t renege on quality. This extraordinary boutique-style guest house is set in a wonderful Grade II listed building and boasts individually and artistically decorated rooms, some with views over iconic Regency Square (see this story’s main feature photo) towards the seafront and that must-do i360 observation tower.
All of them have exquisite, quirky finishes and flourishes, from custom artworks to handmade furnishings. And best of all, the windows actually open to let in a welcome breeze on a warm day, a special treat as it’s a quiet area thanks to its being set back from the seafront. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, free WiFi, refreshment facilities, and a separate (though snug) bathroom and shower.
The bar here is something of a hidden gem and provides a much more subdued, laidback, and unhurried drinking experience than many other Brighton establishments. Not only were we indulged with a number of special requests by the adept and friendly mixologist, he wasn’t quick to pack up and leave even after the hotel’s other guests had retired for the night. And when “Time!” was called, we were given ample warning.
Breakfast was a real treat, too, and included such staples as stacked-high pancakes and bacon or sausage, as well as a delicious avocado on toast for those watching the old waistline. And the friendly staff also indulged us with coffee and post-breakfast goodies for visiting colleagues at a business meeting we held on-site. Class act.
The Artist Residence is also just a five-minute walk away from the city’s key attractions and the Brighton Conference Centre. Underground parking is available beneath Regency Square.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit Artist Residence Brighton
A Room With a View Brighton
A Room With A View is one of the best boutique hotels in Brighton. Located in a charming Grade 2 Georgian building in LGBT-friendly Kemptown, this delightful Brighton accommodation is directly opposite the beach on Marine Parade, close to Palace Pier.
Choose from a cozy single to a deluxe king-size room on the third floor with its sofa and free-standing bath, and the hotel has the added benefit of a dining room and lounge. Imagine waking up to sea views from your king-size sleigh bed in the Deluxe White Room, or enjoying breakfast al fresco from the Rooftop Balcony Room.
The cafés, pubs, and bars of James Street are just a short stroll. Parking is complimentary if you book directly with the hotel.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit A Room With a View Brighton
The Ginger Pig Restaurant & Rooms
If you’re looking for Brighton accommodation a few minutes from the seafront and only seconds from a pub, then book one of the double rooms at The Ginger Pig Restaurant & Rooms. Located in smart Hove, the award-winning restaurant-boutique hotel is a unique place to stay in Brighton.
Boasting 11 gorgeous ensuite rooms above the eponymous Gastro Pub, you can quite literally roll out of your comfy Hypnos bed straight into a full English for breakfast. Rooms are snazzy and comfortable, replete with fine linens, Cowshed amenities, coffee machines… and even a premixed Ginger cocktail in the well-stocked minibar.
Sunday roasts here are a Hove institution, while the dinner menu offers imaginative surf and turf favourites. The same company also owns The Ginger Dog and The Ginger Fox gastro pubs and the Gingerman restaurant in central Brighton.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit The Ginger Pig
Harbour Hotel Brighton
Prestigious Harbour Hotels Group has a selection of beautiful hotels in waterside locations, and their Brighton boutique hotel is no exception. Undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Brighton, Harbour Hotel Brighton is a restored Regency house that’s centrally located overlooking the seafront just moments from the pier.
Indulge yourself with a stay in one of the colourful sea-view suites, and after a day’s shopping and sightseeing, book a massage and sauna in the in-house spa, ingeniously created in former smugglers’ tunnels. There’s a heated pool here, alongside a sauna, steam room and hot tubs.
If workouts are more your thing then the Harbour Hotel’s own compact gym is the perfect antidote before dinner at the in-house Harby’s Diner & Bar. Local attractions include the indie shops in The Laines, galleries, Brighton Pier, and the famous Brighton Pavilion, while the South Downs National Park is only 20 minutes by car.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit Harbour Hotel Brighton
The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel & Spa
Brighton boutique hotels always get our recommendation when they have an in-house spa. Located in Kemptown, The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel & Spa has retained its Victorian features including high ceilings and original ornate cornice work, alongside plenty of modern comforts.
Book the peaceful king suite with its own private balcony, the perfect spot for morning-after-the-night-before brunch as you take in the sea views. The Charm’s location is moments from Kemptown’s bars and restaurants… or maybe enjoy a night in with champagne and Netflix after a relaxing couple’s massage in the spa.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit The Charm Brighton Boutique Hotel & Spa
Brighton Inn Boutique Guest Accommodation
Another Kemptown favourite, the Brighton Inn is perfectly located to explore the Laines, the seafront, and nearby Brighton Marina with its shopping centre, bowling alley, cinema and yacht club.
Take a sail out to see the 116 Rampion Wind Farm Turbines and discover more about local wildlife. You might see dolphins and even sharks, and there’s a great panoramic view of the Sussex coastline. You can also take a ride along the coast in the Volks Electric Railway.
Choose the Room 3 Suite on the first floor with its super-king bed, freestanding rolltop bath, complimentary Wi-Fi and a relaxing Grohe rain and power shower. Perfect ingredients for a relaxing beachside staycation.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit Brighton Inn Boutique Guest Accommodation
One Broad Street
One Broad Street leads the way in Brighton’s self-service boutique hotel scene. Think digital check-ins, complimentary superfast Wi-Fi, kitchenettes (with fridge and microwave), and funky interiors – all a welcome change from vintage B&Bs.
Guests will find easy-to-use smart tech, alongside industrial-style interiors, with imaginative use of brick and reclaimed wood as the backdrop to warm fabrics and designer lighting. Hot desk at the bistro seating, or enjoy your Nespresso and stare at the sea. The bed’s not shabby either: 200 sprung pocket luxury to lounge on before hitting the beach – and Brighton’s nightlife – just outside the front door.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit One Broad Street
Paskins Town House
Vibrant Art Deco and Art Nouveau-inspired interiors, a very warm welcome, and an unbeatable Kemptown location just two minutes from the sea are just a few reasons to choose Paskins Town House as your next Brighton holiday accommodation.
Set in two adjoining Regency townhouses in the Eastcliffe district, this charming central Brighton B&B off Marine Parade has a choice of comfortable, eclectic rooms with good amenities. Add to the mix a superb breakfast menu of bagels and croissants alongside full English favourites and your Brighton beachside home-from-home is complete. Guest parking vouchers are available.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit Paskins Town House
Motel Schmotel
While not strictly speaking a boutique Brighton hotel (ok, it’s a motel!), the quirky Motel Schmotel is well worth considering for your seaside stay. Just a five-minute walk from Brighton station and a few minutes from Brighton Pier, this Brighton motel is centrally located within easy access to the pubs, restaurants, and cafés in and around Western Road.
Choose the double ensuite balcony room at the rear of the property for croissants and coffee overlooking the neighbouring garden square. There is secure underground parking nearby at Regency Square, while golfers will appreciate the proximity of East Brighton Golf Club, just 2.5 miles away.
LuxuryUK Recommends: For the latest rates and reservations, visit, visit Motel Schmotel
___________________
Bryan Dearsley is Editor of LuxuryUK and the Riley network of luxury lifestyle and travel websites.
