Mercure Hotel in Brighton

Who doesn't love playing on the beach?!? This delightful 4-star hotel, just one minute walk from the beach, is the perfect place to host your bride-to-be's special hen weekend. Set in a fabulous Grade II listed building, this elegant Victorian hotel (built in 1864) overlooks the sea and the promenade and has bags of character. The original Regency staircase is one such an example and is perfect for anyone looking for a selfie with just a little Jane Austen flair thrown in for good measure. You will need to bring your own bonnets though…

Each room has a free WiFi (because Brighton is super Instagram-able and no one wants to run low on data) and satellite TV so no one needs to go crazy with the Sky+ before they leave for the hen party. Some of the rooms boast magnificent sea views. There's also room service just in case heads are too tender to face leaving the confines of your bed for breakfast (or lunch… or dinner). You'll be glad to hear that there are also tea and coffee making facilities for just such an occasion.

Downstairs there's a bar where you can meet the rest of your hens before heading out into Brighton, presumably after a cocktail or two. There is also a restaurant that serves food 24-hours a day and overlooks the sea as well as a 24-hour reception who will be glad to answer any questions you have and who offer a luggage storage service. Parking is also available, a soothing balm for anyone who's just undertaken a long drive to Brighton.

Anyone looking for a little retail therapy is in luck as the hotel is just half a mile from the Churchill Square shopping centre as well as countless other independent shops on top of that. Brighton Pier (yes THE Brighton Pier), The Lanes shopping district and former Royal residence the Royal Pavilion, are just a mile from the hotel. All of these local landmarks, especially the Royal Pavilion, are absolute must sees and will make the perfect setting for your bride-to-be's special weekend.