Next year will be 50 years since Abba won the Eurovision Song Contest at the Brighton Dome, after which the band was hosted at The Grand Brighton. It’s not the hotel’s only claim to fame – it featured in the iconic Brighton cult film Quadrophenia and in the comedy Only Fools & Horses. Dating back to 1864, it has retained its iconic status as the grande dame of Brighton.

Its location couldn’t be better. Just an hour from London, it is directly opposite the beach and within striking distance of all the major attractions including the Royal Pavilion and Garden, the famous West Pier, the Brighton Palace Pier and The Lanes with its independent shops, cafés and restaurants.

The 201 rooms, across seven floors, come in different categories, but it’s worth splashing out for one of the sea-view rooms, many of which come with large balconies. The adult-only Grand Suites – located on the seventh floor – are set over two floors and feature separate lounge/dining areas, a large bath and walk-in shower.

When it comes to dining, in contrast to the rest of the hotel’s traditional decor, the restaurant Cyan has a more contemporary feel, with its blue and green hues inspired by the Sussex Downs and the south-coast sea.

Food wise, head chef Neil Gooding and the culinary team serve up classic British food with a twist, using local and sustainable produce.

Starters include the likes of salmon pastrami, giant couscous, mint, cucumber, lime, fennel; mains feature plenty of fish and meat dishes, with vegetarian options; while the pudding list is a a dream for those with a sweet tooth – think satsuma cheesecake, ginger sponge, bitter chocolate, almond; or salted caramel chocolate tart, yoghurt gelato, cherry purée.

For a coffee or cocktail, the cosy art-deco inspired Victoria Bar & Lounge is the place to go, where you’ll find a selection of drinks ranging from bespoke tea blends to sparkling wine from the Sussex countryside and fine spirits. It’s also the perfect spot for a light bite to eat.

Afternoon tea at The Grand Brighton is a real treat – served in the opulent and bright Victoria Terrace & Lounge overlooking the sea, guests can enjoy three tiers of sweet and savoury delights, with traditional, vegan and gluten-free options available. The signature Grand Afternoon Tea is priced at £38 per person and comes with savoury bites such as caramelised red onion and goats’ cheese quiche; sandwiches; Shipton Mill scones; and mini cakes and pastries.

If you want to elevate the experience further, you can choose to add a glass of champagne, a G&T made with Brighton Gin, a sweet sparkling touch of Ridgeview Fitzrovia Rose Sussex; or a bright and refreshing Chambord Spritz – served with a luxury chocolate device from one of Brighton’s best chocolatiers.

Christmas at The Grand

Traditional decorations, roaring fires and an innovative food offering awaits guests visiting The Grand over the festive period. Highlights include the Festive Afternoon Tea (£38 per person). Inspired by the upcoming December cinema release of Wonka, it includes the likes of chocolate-infused creations and sweet treats alongside festive savoury favourites. Guests will also be treated to homemade chocolate marshmallows with popping candy, a chocolate, praline and orange choux and festive mini sherry trifle. The menu also features a specialty mini ‘Grand' marbled chocolate bar, providing guests the chance to discover a golden ticket and win a bottle of champagne.

At Cyan restaurant, the traditional British roast comes with a selection of five options and all the trimmings including roast potatoes, carrots, parsnips, swede, French beans and spring cabbage, and cauliflower cheese.

For details of this and special party nights and the New Year’s Eve Getaway Package, visit grandbrighton.co.uk

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