Bagging a prime position overlooking Brighton seafront, the hotel is set back slightly from the busy Kingsway thoroughfare. The hotel is situated next door to the Brighton Centre, the city's premier events and conference space, and is a mere hop and skip across the road from the beach. The Victorian Lanes is a six-minute stroll east, while the BA i360 observation tower lies a few minutes west.
By car: Brighton is around 2 hours' drive from London and 45 minutes from Gatwick Airport. There is limited on-site parking available at the hotel, costing £35 per night.
By train: London Bridge and London Victoria to Brighton takes around 1 hour. The station is a 15-minute walk or 5-minute taxi from the hotel. Book trains to Brighton.
Originally built in 1864, a full refurbishment in 2013 brought the grande dame bang up to date. While still resplendent in gilt and mahogany, the Victoria Bar and Lounge has been updated with a palette of baby blue, taupe and cream. The updated rooms are more contemporary with a New England beach house-meets-English seaside vibe.
She's had her ups and downs over the last 150 years. She lost her fifth star in 2008 and is now a solid four-star property. The staff are friendly and professional although, in the busy months, it can lose its polish. Sadly, the spa is undergoing refurbishment and is closed.
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Lounges
- Terrace
- Pet-friendly
- Free Wi-Fi
The rooms and suites are decorated in a palette of pale blues, greens and taupes. The smaller rooms at the back have less appealing views. Bathrooms are pretty standard with simple tubs and over-bath showers, however, some superior rooms have roll-top baths and telescopes to capture the sea views.
Room types: Classic Single, Classic Rooms, Classic Sea View, Deluxe Sea View, Feature Deluxe Sea View, King Suites
Key amenities: ensuite with bath and shower, Noble Isle toiletries, TV, luxury bathrobes, tea and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi
The modern restaurant is called Cyan. It's a vision in blue velvet and offers all-day dining in an opulent setting with small and large plates and sharing platters: think lobster mac 'n' cheese, cod with lardo and cockles, and Sussex charcuterie, plus local fizz from the central champagne bar.
Cyan: seasonal set lunch, local seafood, all-day dining menu, sharing platters, Sunday roasts. Mains from £11. Open daily from 12.30-9pm.
The Victoria Terrace: afternoon tea, street food, sandwiches, seafood, cocktails. Larger plates from £13. Open 9am-11pm.
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