Brighton's attraction as a perfect weekend destination, particularly amongst young people looking for some fun, as well as it's gay friendly reputation, remains undiminished, but as far as hotels are concerned it's also meant that an endless stream of so-called hip new places keep cropping up, only to turn out as tired and distinctly un-hip as their many neighbours. Kemp Town, with its quirky shops and tight grid of little streets leading to the seafront, is the usual location of these townhouse start-ups, as well as for a plethora of tired-looking b&bs and boarding houses. Here, we pick out the best and ignore the rest: Kemp Town House, for it's sophistication and attention to detail, and The Town House, for it's brilliantly executed fantasy, stand out. We also highlight the best of Brighton's larger hotels; while we hope patiently for a revamp of the iconic 19th century Grand Hotel, in prime position overlooking the sea and the famous pier, the excellent example of the Hotel du Vin chain remains our firm favourite. The order by which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.

Written by Fiona Duncan, Marcus Waring