From its Victorian inception (nicknamed the “Palace by the Sea”) to the birth here of an Indian prince; then Abba’s stay after winning Eurovision and the IRA bombing of 1984, this wedding-cake beauty carries stacks of history.

Spanning two Georgian townhouses in Kemp Town and overlooking Brighton Palace Pier, Drakes is arguably the city’s most elegant boutique hotel.

Another sea-facing beauty here: Brighton Harbour Hotel is a fairly recent addition to the scene but has fast gained popularity, not only for those nautical-themed bedrooms with complimentary decanters of gin and sherry, but also for its Harbour Kitchen and Bar, majoring on great British classics and locally sourced produce.

Don’t be fooled by that calm Regency Square exterior — inside, Hotel Pelirocco is a riot of boho kitsch: think lipstick-pink walls, mirrored ceilings and a basement karaoke lounge.

A pebble’s throw from the Peli and spanning two grade II listed Regency Square townhouses, the Artist Residence is a hugely stylish boutique hotel with a hipster, clubby vibe.

This is another Regency Square gem, just a short walk from all the city’s attractions. Expect eye-catching contemporary artwork, one-off furniture designed by the owner’s husband, heavenly beds, and glimpses of the sea from its front rooms.

With an excellent location just minutes from The Lanes, the pier, and the Royal Pavilion, Hotel du Vin is hard to beat. Even better, it’s set on one of Brighton’s quieter roads.

Selina is one of the newer kids on the block and offers some of the city’s lowest prices, making it a great budget option for families (some rooms come with bunk beds and cots).

Although recently refurbished, this longstanding Kemp Town hotel has lost none of its quirky charm and homeliness, thanks to the welcoming presence of its owner, Hervé Guyat, and his friendly team.

With Brighton’s boho North Laine district on your doorstep, and the Royal Pavilion just five minutes away, My Brighton makes an excellent base for exploring the city’s best attractions.

Dating back to the 16th century, this is Brighton’s oldest inn and carries shedloads of history: the Prince Regent staged a bash here, Dickens gave readings and Paganini played his violin on the balcony.

The Marina may lack Brighton’s inimitable spirit, but if you’re after a peaceful stay with sea and harbour views from a private terrace, then Malmaison ticks the boxes.

Sure, it’s in Hove, but Brighton’s centre is a short bus ride away and if you want a quieter uber-cool seaside base, then this boutiquey 11-bedroom establishment is perfect.

This Kemp Town beauty located up a skinny, salt-flecked side street may look like your typical old-style boarding house, but step inside and there’s a pleasingly cool and contemporary look to its public spaces and six bedrooms.

With its eccentric collection of retro finds (reclaimed fairground rides, shag pile carpets, flying ducks and classic gig posters), Snooze majors on overkill, so you’ll need to adore vintage to appreciate its offbeat charms.