Night of nostalgia

Artist Residence (Brighton)

GETAWAYS • Brighton

There’s a sense of nostalgia when you enter Artist Residence Brighton, a boutique hotel overlooking the city’s Regency Square and the iconic disconnected West Pier. The rooms span across two Grade II-listed Regency townhouses, with narrow staircases and hallways connecting the various spaces. It’s a hike up to my top-floor room, but the views of Brighton’s rooftops are worth the ascent. The decor — artsy and Bohemic with a modern flourish — situates me back in the present, particularly as each room and the common areas showcase contemporary, gallery-worthy artwork.

Brighton, too, is nostalgic, especially the rundown Brighton Palace Pier, which juts out into the English Channel against better judgement. The seaside city, located a 45-minute train ride from London’s Victoria Station, is perpetually caught somewhere between the past and present. It has new additions, like Brighton Beach House, and traditional mainstays, like Brighton Museum & Art Gallery. Artist Residence Brighton puts you walking distance to all of it, with Brighton Beach sprawling from the hotel down to the marina.

This sort of beach getaway doesn’t require a swimsuit, especially during winter. On my visit, we strolled along the white cliffs at Saltdean, a short drive away, and tiptoed to the end of the pier, where brave travelers ride the shaky-looking Turbo Coaster.

Inside the hotel, Blake’s Bistro & Bar is a lowkey spot for a drink or breakfast. In the evening, venture out into Brighton, where restaurants like Burnt Orange and Embers represent the city’s evolving culinary scene. And no matter the season, end the day with an ice cream — you’re on the beach, after all. –Emily Zemler

→ Artist Residence (Brighton) • 33 Regency Sq • Weekend rates from £390/stay.