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Summary of reviewsThe Southern Belle garners high praise across various categories, resulting in an overall stellar reputation. Located a few steps from the beach and within easy walking distance of Brighton and Hove, the hotel's convenient yet tranquil location makes it ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Guests appreciate the close proximity to notable landmarks and a variety of shops, cafes and pubs, all while enjoying a peaceful environment thanks to its quiet street setting.
Breakfast at The Southern Belle is a major highlight with many guests raving about the delicious and varied offerings. The menu caters to different dietary preferences, including vegan and vegetarian options and features high-quality ingredients. Dishes such as Eggs Benedict and avocado on sourdough with chorizo and feta receive particular praise. The inclusion of breakfast in the room rate is seen as excellent value, although service speed can occasionally vary.
The dining experience extends to the rest of the day with guests praising the in-house pub and restaurant for their hearty and superb food. The roast dinners are frequently described as the best ever and the pub's lively atmosphere, complemented by live music and a vibrant crowd, enhances the overall experience. Despite some minor noise concerns due to the pub's location, the food and atmosphere are consistently seen as exceptional.
Rooms at The Southern Belle are another standout feature, repeatedly described as stunning, beautifully decorated and immaculately clean. Spacious and stylish, the rooms offer modern amenities and quirky touches that create a cozy, homely atmosphere. Guests appreciate the large, well-designed bathrooms and the soundproofing that ensures a peaceful night's sleep, even with the pub below. Minor maintenance issues are rare and do not significantly detract from the overwhelmingly positive sentiment.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel is impeccable with rooms and communal areas consistently noted for their spotless conditions and attractive decor. The staff at The Southern Belle further enhance the guest experience with their friendly, welcoming and professional service. Many guests highlight the staff's exceptional hospitality, noting their attentiveness, support and local knowledge.
The quality of the free wifi is generally seen as reliable and sufficient, though a few guests encountered connectivity issues. Nonetheless, the overall feedback is positive with many appreciating the stable and brilliant connections available.
The hotel's proximity to the beach and its vibrant nightlife contribute significantly to its appeal. Guests enjoy the easy access to the seafront and the variety of local amenities, as well as the lively in-house pub which provides a great atmosphere for unwinding.
Beds at The Southern Belle receive numerous commendations for their comfort, contributing to restful and enjoyable stays. Despite minor isolated issues, the consensus is that the beds are of high quality, ensuring guests have the best sleep.
Recognized as an excellent three-star hotel, The Southern Belle offers great value for money and is frequently chosen by returning guests. Its combination of outstanding location, superb dining, comfortable accommodations, cleanliness and exceptional staff service makes it a top choice for travelers. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Historic Inn
Inn near The Beach
Dog Friendly Inn
Inn near Nightlife Spots
Inn with Free Wi-Fi
Small Inn
3-Star Inn
Room Types
Deluxe Double or Twin RoomSpacious first floor room with luxury super-king bed, featuring floor to ceiling bay windows overlooking the church and with partial views to the sea. The room has vintage cocktail chairs, a luxurious en-suite with modern walk-in shower, a large Smart flat screen TV, Nespresso pod machine and other tea/coffee making facilities.
The bed can be configured in either super king double or 2 large single beds. The standard configuration is double. A 24-hour notice is necessary if the guests choose the twin setup.
Please note this room is above the public bar area.
Pets can be accommodated in this room.
Superior Triple RoomA spacious, modern and beautifully decorated first floor room with luxury king sized bed and single bed. The room has a large Smart flat-screen TV, Nespresso pod machine, tea/coffee making facilities and 2 comfortable tub chairs. The room features an en-suite with large shower.
Pets can be accommodated in this room.
Please note this room is above the public bar area.
Deluxe King RoomLuxury room featuring a super king bed with handmade floor to ceiling velvet headboard. The room also boasts a beautiful Victorian-inspired bathroom with Koi Carp wallpaper and a modern walk-in shower. Located to the side of the building, the room has wall to wall blackout curtains
Please note that pets cannot be accommodated in this room type.
Please note this room is above the cocktail lounge.
Superior King RoomA large luxury room with bespoke wooden feature wall and king bed. The room has a large Smart flat-screen TV, Nespresso pod machine, tea/coffee making facilities and a small desk area with charge points. The room also boasts a luxurious bathroom with modern walk-in shower.
Pets can be accommodated in this room.
Deluxe Double Room with Side Sea ViewStunning spacious second floor room with luxury king bed and partial sea view.
Featuring relaxing window seat with view overlooking the church and views to the sea.
The Ensuite features a double sink, large modern walk in shower with rainfall shower-head and hand held shower. Smart TV, free WiFi, tea/coffee making facilities & coffee pod machine.
Please note that pets cannot be accommodated in this room type.
Guest Reviews
9.1
Excellent
Location
The Southern Belle boasts an exceptional location that guests often praise for its convenience and tranquility. Nestled just a few steps from the beach, it offers easy access to both Brighton and Hove, making it an ideal spot for those looking to explore these vibrant areas. The seafront is remarkably close, providing scenic walks and a serene atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle. Notable landmarks such as the Brighton Centre, The Lanes and the British Airways i360 are all within walking distance, as are a variety of shops, cafes and pubs.
Despite its central location, the hotel manages to maintain a peaceful environment, thanks to its position on a quiet street. This balance makes it perfect for both relaxation and exploration. The charming surroundings include access to local amenities and the friendly, accommodating staff further enhance the experience. Whether for a leisurely stroll along the beach or a short walk to Brighton's bustling town center, The Southern Belle's superbly placed location ensures a pleasant and convenient stay.
Breakfast
The breakfast experience at The Southern Belle receives impressive acclaim in guest reviews. Many guests praise the "excellent" and "delicious breakfast" offerings, highlighting the wide variety of choices available, from traditional Full English to tailored vegan and vegetarian options. The breakfast selection is described as "outstanding" and "superb," with dishes like Eggs Benedict, avocado on sourdough with chorizo and feta and other freshly cooked-to-order items frequently commended.
Noteworthy mentions include the high-quality ingredients, the great coffee and the diverse menu that caters to different dietary preferences. Guests particularly appreciate that breakfast is included in the room rate, which they find exceptional value for the cost. Reviews also indicate that the breakfast service is generally good, although a few guests mentioned variability in quality and service speed.
From the numerous positive accolades, such as "best breakfast I've ever had in a Brighton hotel" and descriptions like "fab breakfast," it is clear that The Southern Belle excels in delivering a memorable and satisfying breakfast experience. However, there are occasional critiques, such as overcooked poached eggs, slow service times or a lack of certain continental options, but these appear to be exceptions rather than the rule.
Overall, the breakfast at The Southern Belle stands out for its delicious and varied offerings, high-quality preparation and excellent value, making it a significant highlight for guests.
Dinner
The Southern Belle offers an exceptional dining experience with its cool in-house pub and superb restaurant and bar. Guests consistently praise the delicious and hearty food, often highlighting the roast dinners as the best they’ve ever had and describing the breakfast options as amazing. The pub downstairs features a wonderful atmosphere, enhanced by live music and a vibrant clientele.
The menu showcases a range of tasty options, including classic, local dishes and small plates like burrata and aubergine that have left diners impressed. Although some guests noted occasional menu limitations, the food available is always well-cooked and of the highest order. The chef receives high commendations for creating fabulous and fantastic meals, ensuring that both dinner and breakfast are delightful experiences.
Patrons also enjoy the craft beers and cocktails available at the bar, contributing to the lively and inviting ambiance. Whether dining or simply enjoying a drink in the evening, the Southern Belle provides great value for money and a memorable culinary experience. Despite some minor issues with noise due to the pub’s location on the ground floor, the overall feedback points to a destination where the food and atmosphere are nothing short of superb.
Rooms
Nestled above a charming pub, The Southern Belle offers a delightful array of rooms that are repeatedly described by guests as stunning, beautifully decorated and immaculately clean. The spacious accommodations stand out for their tasteful and stylish decor, often accompanied by individual and quirky touches that evoke a cozy, homely atmosphere.
Guests frequently commend the rooms for their generous size, comfortable beds and modern amenities. Many reviews highlight the large, well-designed bathrooms as a standout feature. The attention to detail in the decor and overall ambiance contributes to a very pleasant stay, making the hotel feel like a boutique level experience rather than a standard chain.
The rooms feature contemporary touches with an elegant Victorian flair, creating an inviting and aesthetically pleasing environment. They are equipped with essentials like TVs, plenty of plug sockets and even little extras that make a stay more enjoyable.
For those seeking a peaceful retreat, the rooms are noted for their soundproofing and quietness, ensuring a good night's sleep even with a bustling pub below. Despite a few mentions of occasional warmth or minor maintenance issues, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction with the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms.
The Southern Belle’s rooms thus promise a unique and refreshing change from the typical hotel experience, offering both character and comfort in equal measure.
Beds
The beds at The Southern Belle receive high praise from guests, often being described as very comfortable, super comfy and even extremely comfortable. Many reviews highlight the beds as big, spacious and well-decorated with some mentioning specific features like soft pillows and bedding that is the softest they have ever experienced. Guests frequently noted that they had the best sleep of their hotel stays due to the beds. The cleanliness of the beds also earns positive remarks, contributing to the overall cozy and restful experience. While a few isolated comments point to minor issues like a wet bedsheet or a mattress that could be more comfortable, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive with many guests appreciating the significant comfort and quality provided by the hotel's sleeping arrangements.
Cleanliness
The Southern Belle has consistently received praise for its outstanding cleanliness and well-maintained premises. Guests have spoken highly of the spotless conditions, describing the rooms as immaculately clean, fresh and comfortable. The decor has been noted as both attractive and modern, enhancing the overall appeal of the accommodations. Communal areas are equally well-kept, contributing to a welcoming and open vibe throughout the hotel.
Visitors have appreciated the meticulous attention to cleanliness with rooms being described as spotless and impeccably clean. The hotel's commitment to maintaining high standards is evident in the daily upkeep of the rooms and the provision of amenities such as spare toothbrushes.
While minor observations of dust in less obvious places like desk drawers have been mentioned, these instances seem negligible compared to the overwhelming consistency in cleanliness. The staff, known for their friendliness and attentiveness, further enhance the positive experience, making The Southern Belle a highly recommended destination for travelers valuing a pristine and comfortable environment.
Staff
The staff at The Southern Belle receive high praise from guests for their exceptional service. Consistently described as friendly, welcoming and professional, the hotel team leaves a lasting impression. Guests frequently highlight how the staff go above and beyond, whether it’s offering a warm greeting, accommodating special requests or providing excellent local knowledge. The staff’s attentive, supportive and approachable demeanor adds a personal touch to each stay, making guests feel valued and comfortable.
The excellent hospitality extends to all members of the team, including management and even the chef, contributing to a friendly and inviting atmosphere. Special mentions for individuals like James the manager and Tania showcase the personalized service guests appreciate. The overall consensus is that the staff at The Southern Belle excel in creating a welcoming environment, ensuring a memorable and pleasant experience for all who visit.
Wi-Fi
The Southern Belle offers a generally positive wifi experience with guests noting that the wifi is sufficient and reliable throughout the complex. Many reviews highlight good and very good wifi quality with some guests specifically mentioning stable and brilliant connections. Additionally, the smart TV and big TV available are also appreciated features. However, a few guests did encounter issues, such as difficulties connecting to the free wifi and instances where the wifi was unreliable, necessitating the use of mobile data. Despite these occasional problems, the overall feedback on the wifi at The Southern Belle is positive.
Beach
The Southern Belle's proximity to the beach is one of its notable features as highlighted by numerous guest reviews. The hotel is situated just a few steps from the beach, making it exceptionally convenient for beach lovers. Guests frequently mention the "easy walk to the beach" and describe the location as "very close to the seafront." It is often noted to be less than a minute's walk to reach the sea front with some describing it as "right across the road from the beach."
Many reviews emphasize the short distance to the beach and pier, making it an ideal location for those looking to explore or simply relax by the sea. The beach itself is described as being "dog-friendly," which is a plus for pet owners. Guests appreciate the sea view rooms, often highlighting the scenic vistas available from their accommodations.
The location also offers convenience beyond just the beach. It is quite close to amenities such as food options, a laundromat and the center of Newport, all within a short walking distance. Additionally, it's a brief stroll to Central Brighton and Hove shops, making it a central locale for exploring the area.
In summary, The Southern Belle provides an excellent beachside experience. Its prime location, just minutes from the sea and close to the bustling roads of Brighton, promotes ease of access and convenience, making it an attractive option for anyone looking to enjoy the coastal charm with minimal effort.
Nightlife
Nestled within its historic surroundings, The Southern Belle offers a vibrant nightlife experience that guests have found both lively and enjoyable. The in-house pub is a notable highlight, providing a good atmosphere with nicely done interiors and a friendly crowd. Live music and lively events are a regular feature, contributing to its very buzzy and welcoming environment. Guests have praised the great food, world-class Sunday roast and an array of delectable cocktails and beer options that enhance the overall pub experience.
Despite its energetic appeal, some guests noted that the music from the bar, especially in the evening and late at night, can be quite loud, sometimes making it difficult to hold a conversation. However, the bar itself is a nice place to unwind, especially with the helpful and welcoming staff contributing to the great vibe.
The nightlife options in the area around The Southern Belle are highly rated, though it's worth noting that the in-house pub, while inviting and suitable for an evening drink, might not be ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. Nevertheless, the combination of a lively bar area downstairs, characterful ambiance and not being situated in a noisy area makes The Southern Belle a desirable spot for those looking to enjoy a spirited and delightful nighttime atmosphere.
3 Star
The Southern Belle is a comfortable and well-located hotel in Brighton that offers excellent value for money. Guests appreciate the hotel's consistency with many choosing to stay there multiple times and expressing their intent to return. The hotel stands out as one of the best three-star options available, especially in its price range.
Situated about a ten-minute walk from central Brighton, the hotel's location is considered advantageous. Although some guests mentioned noise from nearby music, it stops by midnight, maintaining a balance between vibrancy and rest.
The breakfast receives high praise for its quality, especially given the affordable price point. While certain amenities, such as a swimming pool, are absent and some feel that the service could be more aligned with higher-rated establishments, the Southern Belle still shines as a top choice in its category.
Overall, it is recognized as a good three-star hotel offering a comfortable stay at reasonable rates, making it a preferred choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Historic
Nestled in a historic British borough, 'The Southern Belle' is a beautiful and quirky regency house that exudes old charm and character. Visitors are often captivated by its sympathetically restored period architecture and original features, which blend seamlessly with exposed brickwork and tasteful English decor. The gorgeous, almost retro-chic decor of the rooms exemplifies the charm of the old building, making it a lovely place to stay. The Victorian-style pub adds another layer of nostalgic allure to the experience, aptly fitting in with the beautiful surrounding area. Guests often appreciate the beautiful building's character, noting its historic charm and picturesque setting opposite the nicely architectured St Andrew's Church.
Dog Friendly
The Southern Belle is highly regarded for its exceptional dog-friendly facilities and services. Guests have consistently praised the hotel's warm welcome towards dogs, noting the genuinely dog-friendly environment throughout their stay. The pub within the hotel is particularly accommodating, allowing dogs and ensuring they feel part of the experience. Rooms are well-equipped with dog baskets, bowls and treats, adding to the overall pet-friendly atmosphere.
The care and attention to detail do not go unnoticed, as some guests mentioned their dogs were treated exceptionally well with personalized touches like having their dog's breakfast prepared by the kitchen. The nearby dog-friendly beach also adds to the convenience and appeal, making it a great destination for guests traveling with their furry companions. Overall, The Southern Belle stands out as a super dog-friendly property where dogs are genuinely welcomed and catered to.
No, The Southern Belle doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Southern Belle.
Yes, The Southern Belle welcomes dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at The Southern Belle.