Drakes Hotel

The hotel offers a memorable stay, distinguished by its stunning seafront location and the unique charm of freestanding baths in many of its rooms, often with captivating views. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional staff who are praised for their genuine friendliness and attentive service, making every visitor feel welcome. The comfortable beds ensure a restful night's sleep, complemented by the delicious breakfast that receives widespread acclaim. This hotel is an ideal fit for couples seeking a romantic getaway, sightseers eager to explore Brighton's main attractions on foot, and boutique hotel enthusiasts who appreciate unique character and personalized service. For those planning a visit, it is highly recommended to request a room with a sea view to fully experience the hotel's signature feature, and guests should be aware that the historic building primarily relies on stairs for access.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel, housed in a charming old building, offers a selection of amenities designed for comfort and convenience. While there is no elevator, guests are assisted with luggage via a dumb waiter, and the staff are always ready to help with the stairs. The hotel features a stylish bar and lounge area, providing a comfortable space for guests to relax and enjoy cocktails with a view of the sea. Rooms are well-equipped with tea and coffee facilities, including fresh milk and complimentary homemade shortbread. Guests appreciate the availability of a hairdryer and quality toiletries. Although some rooms lack a mini-fridge, the overall provision of in-room comforts is well-received. The Wi-Fi is consistently reported as strong and reliable, catering to both leisure and business needs.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel for its immaculate cleanliness, with rooms and common areas maintained to a very high standard. The beds are frequently described as exceptionally comfortable, featuring luxurious pillows and high-quality linens that contribute to a restful sleep, though a few guests noted some mattresses showed signs of wear. Room sizes vary, with some being spacious and others more compact or cramped, particularly attic rooms. Many rooms boast stunning sea views, enhancing the overall experience. The bathrooms are a notable feature, with many rooms offering a freestanding bath, while others utilize a wet room design, which some guests found made the entire area, including the toilet, wet after showering. Quality toiletries are a consistent highlight. Noise levels are mixed; while some rooms are quiet, those facing the main road can experience traffic noise, especially due to single-glazed windows.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel receives widespread praise for its dining experience, particularly the breakfast, which is consistently described as delicious, excellent, and superb. Guests appreciate the high quality and the fact that meals are freshly cooked to order, offering a delightful start to the day. Options include a hearty Full English breakfast and other popular choices like Eggs Benedict. While most guests are satisfied, some feedback on vegan options indicated inconsistent portion sizes or preparation. The convenience of room service breakfast is highly valued, allowing guests to enjoy their meals in the comfort of their rooms. Additionally, the hotel is home to a new fine dining restaurant, "Dilsk," which offers tasting menus crafted with locally sourced ingredients, providing an elevated culinary experience for dinner. The hotel bar also serves a range of cocktails, with a popular happy hour.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a prime seafront location, making it exceptionally convenient for exploring Brighton. Guests find it within easy walking distance of major attractions such as Brighton Pier, The Lanes, and the Sealife Centre, as well as numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. Its position in the Kemptown area offers a vibrant yet slightly less crowded atmosphere. For those arriving by car, parking is available on a limited, first-come, first-served basis, incurring an extra cost, which is noted as a good value for the area. However, a significant point of accessibility is the absence of an elevator in the historic building, meaning guests must navigate stairs, which can be challenging for individuals with mobility issues or heavy luggage. Despite this, the central location and proximity to public transport options, including the train station, are highly appreciated.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receive glowing reviews for their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their professional and accommodating demeanor, noting that the team goes above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. From the moment of arrival, guests are met with a warm welcome and efficient service, including quick check-in and assistance with luggage, which is particularly appreciated given the hotel's stairs. Staff are proactive in offering local recommendations and are praised for their ability to anticipate and fulfill guest needs. Special occasions are often recognized with thoughtful touches like birthday cards or anniversary treats. The housekeeping team is also commended for their attention to detail and maintaining high standards of cleanliness throughout the rooms. Overall, the personalized and genuine service provided by the staff is a recurring theme and a major highlight of the guest experience.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard offerings, the hotel provides several unique touches that enhance the guest experience. The building itself is a charming old property with an art deco style, contributing to its distinctive character. Guests appreciate the thoughtful inclusion of homemade shortbread and fresh milk in glass bottles in their rooms, adding a touch of home comfort. The hotel also features a 24-hour bar for residents, offering a convenient option for a late-night drink. While the hotel is undergoing renovations, guests note that the overall ambiance and service remain excellent. It's worth noting that some rooms may experience noise from scaffolding on adjacent properties, though this is a temporary external factor. The hotel's commitment to providing quality toiletries is also frequently mentioned, adding a luxurious feel to the bathrooms.