Artist Residence, Brighton, East Sussex

The world's tallest moving observation tower (and first vertical cable car), the British Airways i360, is visible from south-facing rooms, and dominates the skyline above where the old West Pier crumbles gracefully into the sea. It's worth a trip up for the views below and out northwards to the beautiful Sussex Downs.

The hotel is close to all of central Brighton's main attractions, and a short stroll from the beach and pier.
By car: Brighton is a 2-hour drive from London and Oxford, and 3 hours from Bristol. There are various public car parks by the hotel.
By train: London Victoria and London Bridge to Brighton takes around 1 hour. thetrainline.com

The hotel is perfect for style-conscious weekenders looking for something different to bland Airbnbs; creatives on business trips and conference-goers wanting something more uplifting than predictable and uninspiring corporate chains. We love the contrast of the hotel's conservative exterior, set within a Georgian square of Regency listed buildings, and its interior - lined with modern art.

Sit by the The Fix's picture window with a large Heston Plumenthal (that's a cocktail made with duck fat washed Armagnac), and you'll be mesmerised by the nightly synchronised performance of the 'murmuration' - thousands of starlings diving and soaring in unison over the West Pier at sunset.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Outdoor seating
• Free Wi-Fi

Our room has a superb "this is what I came to Brighton for" sea view and a roll-top bath at the foot of the bed. We also love the retro looking Roberts DAB radio on the bedside table - which itself is made out of an old wooden Players cigarette box. The quarter-sized SMEG fridge in the room, filled with goodies and a small urn of fresh milk, is thoughtful too.

Tiny Sea View, Tiny Balcony Sea View, Cosy Double, Comfy Sea View, Comfy Balcony Sea View, Comfy Double or Twin, Bigger Sea View, Bigger Balcony Sea View, Below Deck
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with shower, Organic Bramley toiletries, free Wi-Fi, TV, radio, Nespresso coffee machine, bespoke furniture, art

The Sunday 'chicken three ways' features a succulent breast, confit leg and fried wings combined with Korean BBQ gravy and an array of potatoes and vegetables including a super smooth and delicious creamed mustard kale. The breakfast menu is worth waking up early for too (although it's served till 10.30am each day so not too much effort is required). Our favourite is the Kimchi Royale - a Korean twisted version of the classic smoked salmon and poached egg on bread.

Clubhouse: Mediterranean inspired dishes, small plates, pop-up dining experiences, cocktails. Open daily for breakfast from 8-10.30am (2.15pm on Sundays). Lunch served Monday-Saturday from 12-2.30pm. Dinner, Thursday-Saturday 6-9pm. Drinks and bar snacks available daily 12pm until late. Larger plates from £10.