Great for short term stay (Royal Albion Hotel Brighton)

Member Name: jazzypinkpuppet

Product:	Royal Albion Hotel Brighton
Date:	24/07/09 (43 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Excellent loacation, great value, nice breakfast

Disadvantages: Little run down and in need of some TLC.

Background information

We are not going on a 'proper' holiday this summer and instead decided to have a few nights in different places so we get a few mini holidays. With the children off for seven weeks this year we thought it would be a good idea to break it up a bit.
We decided Brighton would be one of our destinations as it had something to offer all of us, the marina, the lanes and the atmosphere for my husband and I and the funfair, sea life centre and beach for the children.
Our budget is pretty tight and we couldn't really spend more than £80 per night.
I searched the internet for B&B's and guest houses although most could not offer one family room and we would have had to book two rooms taking us over our £80 limit, then I came across The Royal Albion Hotel, it looked very grand over looking the sea and opposite the pier so I had a look at the prices to see if a family room would be cheaper than booking two rooms at a bed and breakfast. I was totally shocked to find that not only was it cheaper than booking two rooms, it was cheaper than booking one !!!
For a family room with sea views including breakfast it cost £67, giving us some change for some fish and chips ;-)

The booking process -
Booking was very easy, I booked online via their website where you can search dates and availability.
When you put in your requirements, it will offer you a list of available rooms and their corresponding prices.
Just pick the one you want and enter your details and that's it you have booked it. I received an email immediately with all the booking details on.

On arrival -
The Hotel is very big and in an absolute perfect location for all of Brighton's attractions, beach and nightlife.
It looks like it could do with a lick of paint and a few repair jobs but it is a very old building so these things are to be expected.
Check in was very simple, after all the normal formalities we were given our room key and told the times of breakfast.
The staff were friendly and seemed happy to welcome us.

The room -
Well the room wasn't as grand as the hotel that's for sure, it was a smallish room with two double beds and a small desk by the window. With a colour TV and telephone.
The bathroom was tiny with a shower, toilet and sink.
It could have done with a bit of a re vamp, the paint work was a little bit grubby and the ceiling slightly off colour but it was very clean and all the furniture was in good repair.
It was ample for what we needed and fantastic value for the money we paid.

The Breakfast
The breakfast was served in a large dining area overlooking the sea.
There were cereals, yogurt, fruit, toast and a selection of jams. There was also the traditional English option with a good selection of items to chose from.

I think this is a perfect base whilst visiting Brighton, you couldn't get a better location for all attractions. I wouldn't recommend this hotel if you stay in the room a lot of the time as although suitable for a one night stay to rest our heads at the end of the day, I doubt they would be comfortable or spacious enough to stay long term.

Summary: Brilliant location, Bargain price, well worth a stay.