Review: The Mercure Hotel, Brighton

This month’s hotel review focuses on a splendid seafront location, The Mercure Hotel in Kings Road.  The hotel is currently undergoing a contemporary new facelift and with such a good location, it is easy to see why it would be a popular choice for anyone visiting Brighton.

The new reception, designed by local Hove based interior designer Helen Hooper is an amazing array of multi-sized pictures, from local artists, all displayed from ceiling to floor.  It gives a truly modern, elegant display of splendour.  The colourful chairs and wide reception area would be perfect for a quiet hour to get some work done, all with a sea view.

I was checked in by a lovely lady named Cat at reception and given directions to my room, which was a privilege double sea facing room on the second floor.  The room itself was absolutely divine.  With heavy full length velvet curtains, thick grey plush carpet and gorgeous lighting creating a wonderfully sophisticated feel to the room.  I had quite a bit of work to get on with and it was a pleasure to sit at the wide glass topped desk with a perfect view of the West Pier and the famous bandstand.  I even managed to see the sunset before I went down for dinner.

I was seated in the bar area (the restaurant is currently being renovated), and it was quiet and serene.  I was presented with a tantalising menu offering all the classics such as fish and chips and steak, and I opted for a Brighton Deli Burger.  It was a huge affair, layered with pastrami and Sussex cheese.  Along with the chunky chips I was more than satisfied.  I couldn’t leave without dessert and so I went for a hearty sticky toffee pudding.  This was served with salted caramel ice-cream and was truly delicious.  This was all washed down with a glass of red Malbec and overall created a very satisfied customer.

While I was in the room I was happy to see the newly refurbished bathroom with a huge waterfall shower, giant fluffy towels and toiletries to cover every need.  I was impressed with the extra freebies the hotel offered, such as a vanity set, shoe cleaning kit, slippers and bathrobe, which made things much more comfortable.  Teamed alongside a clean crisp double bed, it made for a very good night’s sleep indeed.

In the morning, breakfast was served in the Ballroom, a magnificent room also used for weddings and various business meetings.  For breakfast I was served very quickly, fresh coffee and a hot breakfast set me up for the day nicely.  The staff throughout were attentive and polite, dare I say “smiley,” a nice touch when working in hospitality.  The day’s newspapers were out for everyone to use.  The food was delicious and fresh, and it is useful to know they use many local ingredients.

For us business customers, the facilities are second to none.  Aside from the obvious comfort of the room and the food, there are no less than six meeting rooms, accommodating up to 180 in the largest.  The Mercure can host seminars and events of every kind, with free high-speed WiFi and AV equipment.  The hotel has the business customer in mind and can provide a range of conference lunches, working buffet and breakout menus.

There is still more refurbishment to be completed, as was evidenced by the builders present in the building, but I am confident that upon completion this hotel will make for an excellent facility for our business readers, and I would get in quick to book Christmas stays and events here before everyone realises the transformation will soon make it the Place to Be.