2 Best Hotels in Brighton, The Southeast

Chic and sleek, this hotel a little off the seafront (three minutes' walk from Brighton Pier) is all about relaxation. The stylish rooms are painted in restful, pale shades of blue and white, and the spacious beds are swaddled in soft white linens. Breakfast offers a mix of continental options—muesli, fresh fruit, pancakes—to accompany the (meaty or vegetarian) "full English." The look is minimal without being cold, and the service hits just the right note of friendliness and helpfulness.

A calm oasis in the heart of Brighton, this guesthouse is filled with contemporary art and designer accessories. The rooms are compact but smartly designed, with beds supported on platforms of glass bricks that filter an ocean-blue light. Splash out on the beautifully adorned Gin Room, which boasts sea and pier views.