On the Brighton Sea Front, The Grand Brighton is a portal into an era of bygone elegance; we went along to see what it feels like to be swept up in it for a day!

First Impressions

Part of the DeVere group, The Grand Brighton makes an impression long before you arrive thanks to its illustrious and at times treacherous history, most notably as the site of the 1984 bomb that was an attempt to assassinate then Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher.  Today it still echoes the traditional sense of grandeur for which it originally made its name in 1864.

The Hotel

Propelling you back to a world of old school romance from the second you walk through the door, The Grand Brighton has remained true to its original design.  However, thanks to major refurbishments, it has all the contemporary bells and whistles you could ask for as well – subtly incorporated into the classic design.  There are more than 200 rooms at the hotel, all individually decorated with unique features such as a contemporary bath looking out at the sea in the centre of one of the suites.  If you are staying for a special occasion however, try to nab yourself a corner suite for the extra space and a spectacular view.

The Spa

The spa is the new gem in this hotel’s crown, and my goodness is it a shiny one!  This is a spa that’s all about pampering, so there isn’t a pool, and while there is a gym, personally I would suggest a walk along the seafront before getting well and truly stuck into the more decadent things in life.  Spend a good long while luxuriating in the relaxation lounge where there are swing seats and a bed reminiscent of a 1950s starlet’s boudoir.  Then enjoy a couple of bespoke treatments and a manicure or pedicure in the stations at the front of the spa.

The Restaurant

GB1 is the glamorous reincarnation of the hotel’s original restaurant, serving fresh fish throughout the day whether it’s a main meal you are after or a quick bite at the champagne and oyster bar – either way it seems only polite to have it with bubbles!  Afternoon tea is also a must in the Victoria Lounge – once again sea views prevail, and if anywhere was going to be the perfect setting for such a traditional pastime, this is it!

The Location

You couldn’t really get closer to the seafront if you tried here.  The hotel is perfectly positioned for walks along the pebble beach towards the famous pier, or simply for enjoying the setting.  It also has the added bonus of being a 10 minute walk from the train station for anyone visiting by public transport, although valet parking is also available for guests.

The Verdict

Ideal for a romantic overnight break or a decadent girly afternoon with friends, The Grand Brighton combines the beauty of the past with the service of a world class hotel.  The design is simply beautiful and the location unparalleled, the only problem you are going to have is choosing whether to opt for afternoon tea, dinner, or both!

Top Tips

– Upgrade to a Chambre Unique for extra wow-factor on overnight breaks.
– Try to tear yourself away from the spa for half an hour and go for a walk along the beach when the weather is nice!
– Snuggle up in your robe (which you are given whether you are having a massage or a manicure) and spend some time in the relaxation lounge … and try to nab the double bed if you can!
– Take advantage of the valet parking and book a space if you are driving – parking is a rather luxurious commodity in Brighton!