Hotel Pelirocco, Brighton

WHERE AND WHY

From the outside, Brighton’s Hotel Pelirocco looks the same as all the other white stucco-fronted townhouses in Regency Square. But step inside and you’re transported into an eccentric and colourful world of retro rock ’n’ roll glamour.

A favourite with musicians and DJs, this quirky boutique hotel has 19 individually themed rooms.

We stayed in the Tropical Paradise, an homage to the classic reggae record label Trojan, complete with sea view, hammock, four-poster bed, walk-in shower room and a record player with a tasteful selection of vinyl.

We also had a peek inside the Rebel Rebel room dedicated to music legend David Bowie and themed around his 1972 Ziggy Stardust album.

Parking is in the NCP car park below Regency Square, or it’s a 15-minute walk or five-minute taxi ride from Brighton train station.

The walls of the lobby, staircases and corridors are covered in saucy seaside imagery, along with photos and memorabilia of rock ’n’ roll icons.

COVID CHECK-IN

Check-in is at a Punch and Judy reception hatch and, in line with Covid regulations, sanitiser and masks are on hand. The hotel is operating a strict one-way system on the staircases. Although not hosting its regular DJs, film and comedy nights due to the pandemic, guests can still enjoy a socially distanced cocktail in the hotel’s quirky bar. They aren’t for the faint-hearted though and you’ll probably be grateful for the late midday check-out.

ON THE MENU

Breakfast is a real treat. I opted for home-made granola, yoghurt and fruit, and smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. The traditional full English – with veggie and vegan options – looked fabulous too. Nibbles and platters are also available, along with evening mains at £12 each.

WHILE YOU’RE THERE

Check out the attractions on Brighton Pier and the British Airways i360 tower on the seafront (£16.50). Go shopping in The Lanes, once the hub of the old fishing port, and visit The Royal Pavilion, the seaside pleasure palace of King George IV (£15.50 adult/ £9.50 child).

All rooms start at £99 with breakfast included when booked direct at hotelpelirocco.co.uk. Tropical Paradise room from £119.