Brighton Hotels

Best places to stay in Brighton

The cultural heart of the city is North Laine. Once a slum in the 1800s, it’s a bright and vibrant neighbourhood full of independent boutiques, coffee shops and restaurants. At weekends, several of its busy streets are closed to traffic entirely. Just south of North Laine, you’ll find the similarly (perhaps confusingly) named The Lanes: a maze of quintessentially English narrow alleyways that separate North Laine from the seafront, with some superb architecture and pubs on offer. Brighton is well known for its nightlife and LGBTQ community, and Kemptown in the east is the heart of this scene – undoubtedly the place to stay if you’re here to party. For something a little quieter, Hove offers wide, leafy streets and regal residences aplenty, while we can’t forget one of Brighton’s biggest draws: the seafront itself, with instant beach access and a whole raft of family-friendly attractions.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions in Brighton

Brighton is a compact city, so the good news is that wherever you choose to stay, all the main attractions will still be within walking distance. Central Brighton, including North Laine and The Lanes, is an ideal choice for access to the city’s show-stopper attraction, the Royal Pavilion. This eccentric and exotic palace, once the summer home of George IV, needs to be seen to be believed. The seafront, meanwhile, is perfect if you fancy spending a day on the charming pier or the much more modern Brighton i360, a moving observation tower that looms over the city and offers 360-degree views of the English Channel and the South Downs.

Where to stay with your family in Brighton

Families heading to Brighton on holiday can’t go wrong with the seafront area – kids will love the 4-mile-long beach and the old-school rides on the pier, while SEA LIFE Brighton is perfect for those days when the weather isn’t quite so forthcoming. Try the charming Queens Hotel, which has family rooms perched right on the beach. Alternatively, Hove offers a quieter option away from the hustle and bustle – The Claremont has 11 generous guest rooms, which can be set up with cots and extra beds for kids, all housed in a gorgeous 5-star Victorian villa. Little ones will love the vivid colours of the nearby beach huts and the vast promenade, ideal for walking, cycling, roller skating and more.

Where to stay as a solo traveller

Brighton ticks all the boxes for solo travellers, safe, friendly and compact. If you’re visiting alone, make a beeline for the heart of the city, which offers a wealth of attractions and opportunities for socialising. Enjoy a few hours contemplating the works on display at the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery, or take a short walk to the seafront to try standup paddleboarding or kayaking. If you’re feeling like something rowdier come nighttime, why not join an organised bar crawl like On The Rocks, the perfect way to meet new friends and sample the city’s legendary party scene.

Where to find cheap hotels in Brighton

Despite its reputation as “London-on-Sea”, plenty of cheap Brighton hotels can be found. New Steine Hotel (double room from £69) is a recently refurbished Georgian townhouse with a French-inspired bistro between the city centre and Kemptown. The hotel also provides a bike rental service, perfect for cruising just outside the promenade.

The vibrant Legends Hotel (double room from £53) is practically next door, a great stop for partying with its very own basement nightclub, plus a panoramic terrace bar for a more chilled vibe. If you’re after easy access and convenient transport, Ibis Brighton City Centre is hard to beat, situated literally a stone’s throw from the city’s train station. With a bar and restaurant on site, it has everything you need at your fingertips from under £60 a night for a double room. Right on the seafront, the boutique Selina Brighton (doubles from £60/night) offers something different, bringing travellers together in its bold and quirky coworking space and late-night entertainment venue.

Many hotels in Brighton reflect the city's past, being impressive Victorian buildings with a real sense of tradition, although there are also a number of quirky, contemporary and budget options available.

Buzzing beachfront

The famous beach is one of the city's best spots to hang out, and it's possible to find a cheap Brighton hotel with sea views. Featured in countless movies, TV shows and books over the years, key attractions include the two Piers – the traditional seaside amusements of the Palace Pier, and the now-ruined West Pier, which makes for a dramatic sight at sunset.

Treat yourself

The Lanes and North Laines are intriguing side streets filled with a number of bars, cafes and Brighton hotels, as well as a unique selection of shops. You can find something to suit every budget, from designer jewellers to cool record stores, and there are plenty of vintage bargains to be had among the stalls of Snooper's Paradise.

Creative thinking

The city has always been a draw to creative types, and the Brighton Festival is well worth a visit, featuring everything from contemporary dance to book readings. The summer months see the city stage a number of events, including the colourful Brighton Pride.

Make some noise

Music runs through Brighton's veins, from the infamous Mods and Rockers rivalries of the 60s to today's thriving scene, which has launched acts as diverse as Fatboy Slim, The Kooks and Bat for Lashes, and there are scores of venues dotted around the city putting on shows every night of the week. We particularly recommend the Concorde 2, a beautiful Victorian building right on the beach, which hosts the latest buzz bands, and the Dome, a grand theatre within the grounds of the Pavilion, where ABBA gave their Eurovision-winning performance.  

Party the night away

Booking into a cheap hotel in Brighton is a great way to experience the city's thriving nightlife. One of the centres of UK gay culture, there are a wealth of clubs and bars to choose from, including the iconic gay club Revenge, hip Digital and boutique Bar 76, while up-and-coming comedians frequently stop by the intimate space of the Komedia.

Must-sees in Brighton

Located on the southern coast of England, the vibrant city of Brighton is a must-visit destination for any traveller seeking a mix of culture, history, and seaside charm. With a rich and diverse history, this coastal gem offers a plethora of top sights and attractions that are sure to leave visitors awestruck. As holidaymakers explore the winding streets of Brighton, they are greeted by a perfect blend of old-style charm and modern entertainment.

One of the top attractions in Brighton is the iconic Brighton Pier. This 19th-century pier boasts stunning views of the English Channel and offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. The pier is perfect for a seaside stroll, indulging in some traditional fish and chips while taking in the sea breeze.

For those interested in history and architecture, the Royal Pavilion is a must-visit. This former royal residence is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic architecture and is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of Brighton". Take a tour of the opulent interiors and learn about the fascinating history of this magnificent palace.

For nature lovers, the stunning South Downs National Park is not to be missed. This sprawling park offers breathtaking views of the countryside and is perfect for a day of hiking, cycling, or picnicking. Make sure to keep an eye out for the native wildlife that calls this park home.

For a taste of local culture, a visit to the vibrant North Laine neighbourhood is a must. This bohemian area is a maze of quirky streets and alleyways filled with independent shops, street art and trendy cafes. Get lost in the streets and discover a treasure trove of unique finds.

No visit to Brighton is complete without a trip to the picturesque Brighton Beach. With its iconic striped beach huts and pebbled shores, this beach offers a pleasant and peaceful escape from the lively city. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or soak up the sun while enjoying a refreshing drink.

For a taste of the local food scene, head to the Brighton Marina. An array of restaurants, cafes, and bars is to be found, offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy any palate. With stunning views of the harbour, this is the perfect spot to relax and indulge in some delicious seafood.

Lastly, for a touch of nostalgia, take a ride on the Brighton i360. This observation tower travels up 162 metres for a 360-degree view of the city and surrounding coastline. It's a truly unique experience and a great way to end a trip to Brighton.

Party and nightlife in Brighton

Known for its lively nature, Brighton is famous for its vibrant nightlife and is considered a party-lover's paradise. The city presents a multitude of options for night owls with its array of bars, night clubs and concert venues.

One cannot ignore Prince Albert Street when discussing the nightlife of Brighton. This region is home to some of the most popular watering holes and restaurants in the city. Notably, among these include the Mesmerist, a buzzing bar known for its funky decor, live music and extensive cocktail menu.

West Street has a reputation for hosting memorable parties every night with its numerous esteemed clubs and bars. Of these is Pryzm, a popular nightclub that boasts an incredible lighting scheme and pulsing music, attracting a varied crowd from all walks of life.

Brighton’s legendary music scene also contributes hugely to its vibrant nightlife. The seafront is the heart of this music scene where several concert venues host a variety of musical performances throughout the year. One of these is Concorde 2, cherished for its awesome acoustics and energetic atmosphere, which has earned a distinguished reputation in the realm of live music.

Kemptown is another area that deserves mention when discussing Brighton's nightlife. Commonly known as the city's 'gay quarter', it is dotted with a number of lively LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs. The district's vibrant atmosphere is encapsulated at Revenge, Brighton’s largest LGBTQ+ nightclub. It should be noted that the city's venues on the whole are incredibly welcoming and diverse.

The Central Brighton area showcases some of the city's most classic pubs and wine bars. The Black Dove, with its upscale atmosphere and vast drinks list, offers a sophisticated option for those looking for a relaxed evening. The cultural diversity of Brighton's nightlife is also exemplified in North Laine which hosts an array of independent breweries and stylish wine bars. The North Laine Brewhouse, a popular microbrewery offering a wide variety of craft beers, is a common stop for residents and visitors alike.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

If you’re looking for a hotel in Brighton with its own gourmet offering, Drakes houses the Michelin-recommended Dilsk restaurant, an intimate and atmospheric fine dining space that serves up the best of modern British cuisine. With a focus on sustainability, the tasting menus are created with ethical, locally sourced ingredients and are paired with an interesting selection of wines. If French cuisine is more up your street, the charming Hotel du Vin Bistro serves up home-style cooking with earthy dishes and slow-cooked foods at surprisingly reasonable prices.

Spa hotels

Named one of the best hotels in Brighton by The Times, Harbour Hotel Brighton’s secret weapon is its subterranean spa, which is tucked away in smugglers’ tunnels leading out towards the beach. With a heated pool, steam room, hot tubs and a range of natural and holistic treatments, this is one of the city’s hidden gems. Swimming lovers will enjoy the indoor heated pool at Queens Hotel, the largest hotel pool in Brighton, as well as the full array of treatments offered on-site by the local Pretty People Salon.

Exceptional hotels

Picture a grandiose Victorian seaside hotel, and it probably looks like The Grand Brighton. Celebrated as an example of architectural brilliance upon opening in 1864, the hotel featured the first lift outside of London – a “vertical omnibus” at the time! The hotel’s sweeping staircase is breathtaking and has been graced by many famous figures, from royals and politicians to pop giants ABBA.