The Pelirocco (the word sort of means redhead in Spanish) is a 19-room boutique hotel on Brighton’s lovely Regency Square. The exterior looks like any other traditional historic Regency building. It’s typical of the local style developed by Joshua Hanson, a keen-eyed property developer who turned this into one of the most desirable addresses along the seafront in the early 19th century.
However, when you step inside The Pelirocco hotel, prepare to be dazzled by eccentricity, outrageous decor and bizarre wallpaper. This boutique hotel is just rock ‘n’roll all over.
Who for
Arty, young at heart weekenders or even those on business looking for somewhere that could add some pizza to their stay – expect fun and unrelentingly friendly service.
Accommodation
Every room is uniquely themed, and sometimes it can be very saucy. The first time I stayed here I slept in the Nookii room. It’s pretty sumptuous with purple walls and bedding. I swear the pair of handcuffs behind glass winked at me. There’s also a tantalising nookii game for inspiration.
Pelirocco Nookii room
The next time I stayed, I was given the Dolly Parton room. I love that sassy woman and was pleased to see memorabilia from old vinyl to books and gig tickets.
Some rooms have had guest decorators: They invited Pressure Sounds and Gresham Blake, the tailors, to do their thing and even have the Modrophenia Room celebrating mods and rockers room.
Lovers Lair
Rebel
The latest redesigned room is the Rebel Rebel room. Yes, you have guessed, it is a homage to David Bowie.
Somehow they have included an LED-lit double spa bath, and those in the know will recognise the classic street scene from the front cover of Bowie’s 1972 LP, The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.
The central focus is a luxurious red faux leather bed with the walls adorned with art commissioned by Brighton-based international artist thepostmanart.
Incidentally, remember curly wurlys? That’s the snack you get to enjoy with your in-room cuppa.
Food and Drink
Pelirocco bar
The eye-boggling bar area doubles as a breakfast room. It’s casual with an easy atmosphere and that creates a happy hangout. The bar itself has a hard to focus on swirling print. Prop it up on a stool with your favourite tipple and a selection of cocktails. There are several types of wallpaper on the walls that someone with a clever eye for design has made work.
The breakfast menu has a full menu from eggs benedict to a hearty Full English breakfast. Or order a champagne breakfast in bed!
What’s nearby
The hotel is a few yards from the beachfront, and the fabulous BA i360 Observation Tower – a glass doughnut that moves up and down a skyward reaching pole so you can sea the view for miles. The pier and plenty of bars and restaurants are all within walking distance.
Room Rates
Rooms start at £105.00 per night.
Value for money
The room rates are comparable, but what price can you put on the experience?
Getting There
You can reach Brighton by train on the overground service from Victoria, London Bridge or Blackfriars.