Hilton Brighton Metropole

This full-service hotel from the Hilton brand is housed in a regal red-brick building with white railings. Interiors are contemporary and elegant in style; the lobby’s glossy floors, cherry-wood front desk, glass chandeliers, and floral maroon-and-gold rugs make for a classy atmosphere. There’s a number of grand staircases throughout -- one of which is made of white marble -- that lead to upper floors and hallways decked out in gold and maroon floral carpets, antique paintings, chandeliers, and lovely crown-molded walls and ceilings. The design continues into the hotel’s restaurants, which have high ceilings, large curved windows, and views of the ocean. Couples are drawn to the Hilton brand and modern style of the hotel, though with its extensive meeting rooms, business travelers make up a lot of the clientele. 

Hilton Brighton Metropole is a bit west from the main action of Brighton, but still not too far to reach everything on foot. It’s located across the street from the beach, allowing for lovely ocean views from some rooms and restaurants. There are plenty of dining options and shopping in the area and within a short walk. The Churchill Square Shopping Center is around the corner, while the Brighton Center, a convention and event center, is just down the street (a two-minute walk away). It’s a 13-minute walk to the Royal Pavilion and 14 minutes to the Sea Life marine center. A bus stop is a minutes’ walk from the property, while the closest train station is an eight-minute drive or 15-minute walk. It’s about a 40-minute drive to Gatwick Airport or 50 minutes by public transportation, while Heathrow Airport is a bit over an hour away by car or two hours by public transit. 

There are a whopping 340 rooms in total at this hotel, all of which have a contemporary, minimalist style. Half of the rooms were refurbished in 2012, while the remaining half were completed in May of 2016. Wooden furniture, white linen beds, and tan carpets are accented by maroon or red details, and make for a basic and chain-like look. Upon first glance, some of the rooms seem decently designed and well-kept, but guests have reported that upon closer examination, they’ve found cleanliness issues, broken appliances, maintenance issues with air-conditioning, and dated decor. Take note that not all rooms have air-conditioning. Though the rooms have flat-screen TVs, they’re an older design. Rooms are also equipped with kettles and Wi-Fi (for a fee, or free for Hilton Honors members), but no mini-fridges or minibars. Family Rooms have sofa beds. Simple, white-tile bathrooms have shower/tub combos, Peter Roth toiletries, and hairdryers. Some rooms have ocean views, and there are a limited number of smoking rooms available.

Features at Hilton Brighton Metropole are convenient and well thought out, though there are fees attached to some. There’s an indoor swimming pool with limited children’s hours (a pro for some), as well as a spa that has a steam room, whirlpool, and offers treatments and massages. The fitness center has a diverse set of cardio machines and weight-lifting  equipment. Each morning in the hotel's restaurant 1890 At the Met, a large spread of over 128 items are available for breakfast -- though it costs a fee. This restaurant also offers an a la carte menu on Friday and Saturday nights and a jazz lunch on Sundays. The Salt Room is a steakhouse with sea views, while the Waterhouse Bar & Terrace provides drinks, light bites, all day brunch, and afternoon tea. Room service is available 24/7, but it comes with a service fee and can be quite slow  according to some past guests. Business services is what the hotel does best, offering 33 fully equipped meeting rooms, including four halls. The event space can accommodate up to 3,000 guests. The business center is limited to a single public computer and some phone booths. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby, but not in rooms, unless you’re a Hilton Honors member -- but there have been complaints of spotty connections. Self-parking incurs a daily fee, and pets are welcome for a fee too.