The Old Palace Guest House

For a one-night winter visit, the price worked well. In November our family room was £45, and I’d probably stay again if the rate were similar. In summer the prices seem much higher, and with the distance, stairs and bathroom, I probably wouldn’t pay that. I’d check the bus options next time. The walk back from BC took about 20 minutes at 11pm, and we had no issues. The area seemed fine. The room had plenty of space for the two of us, fresh linen, clean surroundings and a good night’s sleep. The beds were really comfortable, with loads of pillows to choose from, and there was a duvet plus fluffy throws if needed. The radiator kept us warm. Wi-Fi worked without dropping out, and there was a tea and coffee tray, a few toiletries and plenty of towels. The woman who checked us in was very helpful with food suggestions and booking a morning taxi. There’s lots nearby, including takeaways and restaurants, shops and the beach, and buses stop at the end of the road. It’s quite a long way from Brighton Centre, where we were going, but that was our mistake for not checking the map closely. The train station is around a 20-25 minute walk, and it’s pretty steep, though a taxi was only £6. The main drawback is access. There’s no lift, and the stairs are steep and narrow, including the ones down to reception. They’d be difficult for older people or anyone with mobility problems. I have lung issues and hadn’t thought to request a ground floor room, forgetting this was a B&B rather than a hotel with lifts. The bathroom and shower cubicle were tiny, and the sink and toilet area felt cramped. The bathroom layout wasn’t great, perhaps because the rooms were converted from a building without bathrooms. The decor is dated, but it didn’t really affect our stay.