Many have been flocking to Cornwall and Devon – and rightly so. But with masses of people there, it has been hard to find an idyllic coast staycation. I decided to opt for something a little different; something more laid back, trendy and progressive. Yep, you’ve probably already guessed it: Brighton.
It may have been luck of the draw as I stumbled across the pebble beach on a rare, warm UK day, but the British breeze was very much appreciated as I took in the sounds of the relaxing waves, hearing the distant laughter coming from the pier. There’s something different about Brighton – it has a very chilled out and welcoming vibe and is home to an electric range of people, from avid rollerbladers to children taking their first steps.
Aside from the range of seafront restaurants and rollercoaster rides, Brighton offers the right amount of thrill, excitement and fun. But other than people watching or skimming pebbles into the sea, what can those who just want to relax and unwind do? The key here is finding a good place to stay (and maybe a good, hidden-away cocktail bar, too).
A stone’s throw away from the sea sits The Grand, Brighton: a sumptuous Victorian-style building that stands tall and elegant, greeting the coast. Enclosing thousands of memories, the 156-year-old walls hold 201 beautifully designed rooms stretching over seven floors and set around the original dramatic sweeping staircase. Evoking memories from the past, with thoughtful modern design touches, the interiors of The Grand offer an array of delightful surprises and luxuries.
There’s something different about Brighton – it has a very chilled out and welcoming vibe
It has a history worth boasting about, too. Holding more than two centuries’ worth of stories – from the birth of a Royal baby to ABBA's famous stay after winning the 1974 Eurovision song contest – The Grand has been featured in several TV adverts, documentaries, films and television shows, such as Only Fools & Horses.
As fantastic as its history is, the truly showstopping element is in the experience itself. The Grand experience is built on making memories to last a lifetime, and the memory of staying there is one to cherish. Escaping for the night amidst a pandemic is a weird experience, but the warm staff that feel strangely like family make it a break you won’t forget.
The bedrooms are the star of the show. Inside you'll find beds fitted with divine Egyptian cotton linen, a range of pampering toiletries from Noble Isle and fluffy Grand robes and slippers, alongside all of the essentials a modern traveller might need. Plus, many also boast seafront balconies complete with sustainably sourced outdoor furniture – and with views all the way from the palace pier to the beautiful wreck of the old West pier, there really is no better front-row seat in the city.
From a truly Grand breakfast to an unforgettable dinner, dining is at the heart of the Grand experience. The chefs have created sensational menus – which are dietary requirement-friendly(!) - and are crafted around fabulous seasonal flavour combinations and the finest locally sourced produce, fish and meat. Speaking with their culinary expertise, the chefs know what they are talking about, but if you have no idea, the friendly waiters will be sure to help.
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Whether you'll be spending most of your time discovering colourful corners of the bustling city, sampling some of the fabulous local food and drink, or enjoying a serene and well-earned rest by the seaside, a beautiful Grand bedroom is a perfect place to retire to in the evenings. If you’re heading out to explore Brighton, The Grand is just a stone’s throw from the famous West Pier and the i360, and a 10-minute walk from the iconic Royal Pavilion, the lanes, or all the fun of Brighton Pier.
If you fancy staying in, however, you can pass time scanning the Grand Moments plaques with QR codes, where you can scan to reveal the fascinating stories and moments from by-gone eras that have unfolded in each area.
It’s all in the name. The Grand Brighton sits majestically and independently on the seafront, in a prime location at the centre of an iconic city revered the world over. You can watch amateur basketball players shoot hoops from the window of your room at The Grand, or choose to join in with them. What you decide to do at The Grand is up to you, but it is sure to be a rejuvenating stay.
