Probably the most interesting thing here (besides the warm pastries left outside your door in the morning) is that you can hire the entire hotel. If you've never been one for self-catered group getaways (why cook and clean on hols when someone else can do it for you?), then this should strike a chord.

The rooms are right on track, too; individually decorated (aren't they all lately?), cashmere throws, modern cons, sexy stand-alone tubs (suites) and a pillow menu, which allows you to choose what's right for your head.

The hotel is also home to the second location of Brighton's much applauded Gingerman restaurant, offering the requisite modern euro menu and chef's table, as well as 24-hour gourmet room service, which is a welcome change from a ploughman's at four am.

There's also a member's bar to safeguard you from any pier bound stag or hen nights. It may still be Brighton, but drakes seems to have successfully created a world in itself.

drakes - 43-44 Marine Parade, Brighton
From £95 per night - 01273 696934

TR