Hotel Barcelo Old Ship Hotel 0 star
Easyexperts
Brighton, United Kingdom -
See the map
Amy Adejokun Section editor

Although this hotel is a major venue for conferences and weddings, it should not be overlooked for leisure travellers as a base for a break in Brighton. A traditional seafront hotel with a rich history, it has large rooms with impressive views, a super location and lots of public space including lounges and a restaurant and bar. It may lack some of the facilities that the other 'big boys' can boast but it has a charm of its own which would appeal to older couples and foreign visitors. There is a reason the Barcelò has survived over 450 years as a hotel and we suggest that you come and find out why for yourselves. Recommended for all types of traveller for any length of stay.

+
  • Seaside
  • Family
  • International Standard
  • Well located
  • Charm
  • Flight
    Compare all the prices

    Price per night - Find at 0 partner(s)
    Show more offers

    Location 8.23 /10

    Being the first hotel in Brighton, the Barceló has arguably the finest seafront position, right between the two piers, steps away from The Lanes and just minutes from the town's main shopping centre. The immediate vicinity of the hotel is home to tourist shops, seafront snack bars and further inland other more up market eateries. Trains from the station, a 15 minute walk or 5-10 minute taxi ride away, serve Gatwick airport (30 mins) and London (50 mins on fast train). The hotel does have 50 parking spots which operate on a first come first served basis and cost £20 per night. Alternatively, there are several public car parks in the area, but these are further away and may be more costly.

    Accommodation 7.45 /10

    There are essentially three categories of room, with possibilities of single, double and triple occupancy. Many of the rooms have been renovated in recent months and have managed to modernise without losing touch with what the hotel stands for. The renovated standard rooms have been jazzed up with a floral print wallpaper behind the bed while the beds are dressed in quality cotton linens with colourful plaids (which match the cushions and curtains). The furniture consists of dark wood bedside tables, a dresser, a small table and chairs in the corner and a drawer unit upon which is a regular television. Amenities include tea and coffee facilities, telephone, wireless internet access, iron and ironing board and trouser press. The rooms are not the biggest we saw but certainly large enough for a stay of a week or so with plenty or storage space. The simple bathrooms, tiled in white, have bathtub, hairdryer and personalised toiletries. The non-refurbished rooms have all the same amenities and are similar sizes only they are decorated differently and will soon be updated. With a premium room you are guaranteed a sea view as well as a lot more living space as well as attractive wicker furniture in the room and a larger bathroom with classier fittings. The suite, which features an open plan living area, also has a second bedroom with bunk beds for the kids. Due to its classification as a listed building air conditioning has not been able to be fitted although fans are available. All rooms are in tip top condition and have the perfect balance between modernity and tradition which will please guests looking for a true Brighton hotel experience.

    Overview 7.95 /10

    The Old Ship is housed in an almost perfectly symmetrical low-rise white building on Kings Road. The weather seems to have taken its toll on the exterior's paintwork but the hotel's condition improves as you pass through the pillar-flanked entrance. The lobby is fittingly large for a hotel of this stature and has several parts to it. Renovated just last year it looks in good shape and doesn't betray its past with wooden paneling throughout, smart carpets and both old prints and modern art on the walls. The reception desk is way over to the left hand side of the hall and you'll be well greeted here before your luggage is taken to your room. There are two guest lounges within the lobby: one at the front of the hotel which is more traditional and where you can order drinks and snacks and another in the centre of the hall which is more relaxed and modern-looking and which receives natural light from a sky light right above it. Getting to your room is simple and there is a lift for those who can't manage the stairs, however, along the corridors there are lots of small steps and doors which might make it difficult for less able guests or those with wheel chairs to access their rooms. The hotel doesn't have its own fitness facilities although it does have partnerships with local sports centres whereby guests can get day passes for gym and wellness services - just ask at reception. Wifi is available throughout the hotel and is complimentary in the lobby. If you want to use the internet on your laptop from your room this will cost you £6.50 for an hour or £12 for 24 hours. Alternatively there is a PC and printer for guests' use which is also chargeable. For the most part the hotel's public spaces are well maintained and in good condition as there is a rolling renovation in place, although some of the corridors could do with a lick of paint. The staff is polite and courteous and professional and reflects well the values and tradition of the property.

    Food and drink 7.20 /10

    The Barceló's restaurant, Location 3, is split into two halves, the front section looking out over the sea. The rear of the restaurant, which is where breakfast is served between 7am and 10am (8am-11am at the weekend) in the form of a buffet, is carpeted in deep red and features brightly coloured painted scenes on the wall. It is a cosy setting in which to enjoy either a continental style breakfast or indeed a cooked option with everything you'd expect from an English breakfast. Dinner is served between 6pm and 10pm in the front of the room with is parquet flooring and sea view and guests can choose from a wide selection of dishes on the à la carte menu which features several vegetarian options. Starters include Caesar salad, smoked salmon chowder and seared duck breast with pak choi and a lemon grass and plum dressing while for mains you can choose , among others, moules mariner, fish and ships and squash risotto. Several side dishes are available while crumble, sticky toffee pudding or British cheeses finish off the meal. The restaurant is happy to cater to any dietary requirements - just inform your waiter.

    To know

    The oldest hotel in Brighton, the Barceló Old Ship Hotel dates back to 1559 and has played host to many historical events. In 1819 the Prince Regent's Ball took place here and Nicolo Paganini gave a violin recital here in 1831. The banquet celebrating the opening of the London to Brighton Railway in 1841 was also held here. Today all of the rooms which hosted such occasions are still used and are reputed throughout the country, for example the Paganini Ballroom and the Regency Room. Many illustrious guests have stayed at the Old Ship over the years including Lord Byron, Charles Dickens and Churchill. With such a rich history it is an extremely popular venue for weddings, functions and meetings and events of all different sizes can be catered for.

    Equipment

    • Car park
    • Handicap access
    • Restaurant
    • Internet access

    advantage

    • Location
    • Size of rooms
    • History
    • Traditional décor

    disadvantages

    • No gym/spa
    • No lunch service
    • Some may find décor old-fashioned

    Traveller Reviews

    • Overall Score nc/10
    Hotels near to Brighton
    • Amsterdam Amsterdam Amsterdam
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.92
      • Location 8.23

      The Amsterdam hotel is somewhat of a Brighton institution. One of two openly gay hotels on the seafront, it is has a thronging terrace scene attracting clients of all sexualities while inside its sauna is a well-known meeting place for members of the gay community. If the drinking and leisure aspects of the hotel are rightly renowned, not as much can be said for the rooms which are basic, uninspiring and rough around the edges (fair enough as accommodation seems to play second fiddle to entertainment here). Not the place for a family holiday (kids not allowed) but rather for groups of friends or couples looking to meet and party with a clientele made up to a large extent by gays.

      From
      See the offer
    • Brightonwave Brightonwave Brightonwave
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.99
      • Location 8.23

      Brightonwave is a smart and stylish bed and breakfast with an envious location, which goes to prove that all good things come in small packages. A quiet and laid back property, owned and run by a couple with the very same qualities, it offers the perfect retreat for a weekend away from the city or indeed a base from which to explore all that 'London by the sea' has to offer. You'll be looked after very well here and we would recommend this property highly to couples or friends looking for a certain degree of luxury at a reasonable price.

      From
      See the offer
    • du Vin Bistro du Vin Bistro du Vin Bistro
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.14
      • Location 7.77

      They very fact that this hotel's name features the word 'bistro' tells you this is much more than just a place to sleep. The main focus of the Hotel du Vin is undoubtedly its food and wine. However, unlike other hotels where the emphasis is placed elsewhere other than in the rooms, one does not at any moment get the impression that this latter has been an afterthought. On the contrary, these are some of the best rooms in Brighton. One of our favourite properties in Brighton due to its stylish rooms, its professional, knowledgeable staff and above all the unrivalled atmosphere of its restaurant and in particular its bar, we thoroughly recommend this hotel to all those who appreciate their food and wine as well as those who want to experience one of the finest bars in the south of England.

      From
      See the offer
    • Jurys Inn Jurys Inn Jurys Inn
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.02
      • Location 8.23

      A fairly standard hotel with only one type of room, the Jurys Inn is the kind of chain hotel that meets your basic needs and no more. True, it is comfortable, clean and conveniently located for transport links, but it lacks character and is one of the furthest establishments from the centre of Brighton. It would be a suitable base for business people or couples and families who are pushed for other options but if you book early enough you can find something much more inspiring closer into town.

      From
      See the offer
    • myhotel myhotel myhotel
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.54
      • Location 6.7

      It is perhaps not surprising to find a hotel based on the principles of feng shui in Brighton, however to find one that has been designed by Karim Rashid, one of the hottest and most recognisable architect/designers in the world, may raise a few eyebrows (and I dare say turn a few stomachs in the design world). Undoubtedly one of the leading hotels in the city, the style of the hotel may not be to everyone's taste, but it certainly has the characteristics of a top bolthole: well-equipped, functional rooms, trendy restaurants/bars, a great location and attentive staff. This is probably not the most suitable place for a family to spend their break in Brighton, but perfect for couples and groups of friends looking to be right in the mix of things. A design fan's heaven, there are not many better all-round properties than this one.

      From
      See the offer
    • Neo Neo Neo
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.14
      • Location 6.7

      Tucked away off the seafront, the Neo is a little gem of a hotel with some of the best interior design in the city and full of thoughtful touches that make it different from other B&Bs. A lot of time and effort has been put into trying to make this a home from home and we can tell you that this has been achieved with style and sophistication. Good sized rooms, a treatment room and a quiet location, the Neo is perfect for that weekend getaway as a couple or among friends. Although children are very welcome, this is not the best option for families.

      From
      See the offer
    • Nineteen Nineteen Nineteen
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.07
      • Location 9.68

      We should all be thankful that Nineteen's owner, Mark, took the decision to get out of the rat race in the mid-Naughties, or else this intimate guesthouse may never have entered the Brighton accommodation scene. Full of touches not found elsewhere in the city, it is the ideal place to spend a lazy, romantic weekend home from home. You'll want for nothing during your stay as your every possible need has been taken care of - a luxury that you'll quickly get used to and be in danger of yearning once back home. Although primarily a favourite amongst those in their 20s and 30s, couples of all ages are welcome at Nineteen.

      From
      See the offer
    • Square Square Square
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 6.99
      • Location 9.97

      Square comfortably finds its place amongst the relatively new tradition of stylish boutique hotels housed in Georgian town houses. The property can claim to have some of the best appointed rooms in the city and what's more, they are spacious and have good amenities. It is a laid back environment with pleasant, approachable staff and a decent, quiet location not too far away from the action. The hotel does have a cheeky side too and as such, kids are not allowed at the hotel, so it's more one for groups of friends or couples.

      From
      See the offer
    Top Hotels Brighton
    • myhotel myhotel myhotel
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.54
      • Location 6.7

      It is perhaps not surprising to find a hotel based on the principles of feng shui in Brighton, however to find one that has been designed by Karim Rashid, one of the hottest and most recognisable architect/designers in the world, may raise a few eyebrows (and I dare say turn a few stomachs in the design world). Undoubtedly one of the leading hotels in the city, the style of the hotel may not be to everyone's taste, but it certainly has the characteristics of a top bolthole: well-equipped, functional rooms, trendy restaurants/bars, a great location and attentive staff. This is probably not the most suitable place for a family to spend their break in Brighton, but perfect for couples and groups of friends looking to be right in the mix of things. A design fan's heaven, there are not many better all-round properties than this one.

      From
      See the offer
    • Hilton Metropole Hilton Metropole Hilton Metropole
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.38
      • Location 3.0

      With its history, grandeur and class, the Hilton Metropole probably just pips it as the swankiest of the traditional seafront hotels. It may have changed hands many a time since its opening just before the turn of the 20th century, but it has managed to keep its allure and standing and is a fine tribute to Victorian England. That said, it has also succeeded in dragging itself into the 21st century with good facilities and a partial makeover. The standard of service expected from a Hilton is certainly present at this Brighton hotel, which is suitable for all types of traveller whether they be a family, a couple or friends.

      From
      See the offer
    • Seattle Seattle Seattle
      • Easyopinions 8.00
      • Value for money 7.17
      • Location 5.5

      Without a shadow of doubt, this is one of the finest hotels in Brighton. To be perfectly frank, we can't really think of anything negative at all to say about the hotel! Even its one obvious default, being far from the town centre, for us is in fact a distinct plus as instead you are right on the marina, a much quieter area of Brighton, with a touch of glamour in the yachts that are moored here. The boutique style rooms are beautifully appointed, décor of the hotel is second to none and the restaurant is one of the best we experienced. What's more, this is one of the only really family-friendly properties in Brighton with several features devised especially for kids. For a slightly different, yet just as special, Brighton experience, you have absolutely to consider the Seattle, one of our favourites.

      From
      See the offer
    • du Vin Bistro du Vin Bistro du Vin Bistro
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.14
      • Location 7.77

      They very fact that this hotel's name features the word 'bistro' tells you this is much more than just a place to sleep. The main focus of the Hotel du Vin is undoubtedly its food and wine. However, unlike other hotels where the emphasis is placed elsewhere other than in the rooms, one does not at any moment get the impression that this latter has been an afterthought. On the contrary, these are some of the best rooms in Brighton. One of our favourite properties in Brighton due to its stylish rooms, its professional, knowledgeable staff and above all the unrivalled atmosphere of its restaurant and in particular its bar, we thoroughly recommend this hotel to all those who appreciate their food and wine as well as those who want to experience one of the finest bars in the south of England.

      From
      See the offer
    • Blanch House Blanch House Blanch House
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.12
      • Location 9.25

      It's remarkable what you can find these days behind the façades of the Victorian terraces that line the streets off of the seafront. Probably the best all-round hotel package in Brighton, Blanch House gets it spot on from the rooms' design to the superb restaurant and from the choice of staff to the cocktail bar where any self-respecting dipsomaniac would want to be seen. The experience and enthusiasm of the husband and wife team is there for all to see and we challenge you not to enjoy your stay at this property. Although kids are allowed at Blanch House, it is essentially a retreat for couples looking for a sexy weekend away from the big city. A big thumbs up from easyvoyage.co.uk!

      From
      See the offer
    • Drakes Drakes Drakes
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.12
      • Location 9.6

      Drakes is arguably the stand out hotel of the sea front, although it is in a very different mould to many of the established big boys further towards the centre. This is a top end boutique hotel excelling in every area with fresh, funky, functional rooms, a professional staff and a superb restaurant. It's no wonder that all this, together with its ideal location and warm welcome, have made it the choice of some big celebrity names. No need to be famous though to stay at Drakes. Everyone is welcome, including children, and Easyvoyage would encourage all those thinking of a break in Brighton to consider this gem.

      From
      See the offer
    • Una Una Una
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 7.12
      • Location 7.8

      This gem of a hotel, made up mainly of suites, is one of the finest in Brighton. Despite being housed, like many an establishment in this town, in a Regency building, the space and facilities of the rooms are incredible. Add to these top notch accommodations a great location, a husband-wife team and their staff who ooze passion for what they do and some tasteful décor and you have what TripAdvisor contributors crown the number one hotel in the town, and quite frankly it is difficult to argue. Strongly recommended for all types of traveller, for any length of stay. Particularly charming for couples looking for a romantic weekend getaway.

      From
      See the offer
    • Thistle Thistle Thistle
      • Easyopinions nc
      • Value for money 8.18
      • Location 3.0

      It may be part of a chain of hotels, but this doesn't mean that the Thistle lacks charm. Sure, it's not a revolution in terms of design or innovation, but it is probably the most complete hotel in Brighton and goes a long way to meeting the needs, however particular of every kind of traveller. It has newly refurbished rooms and facilities, a great location, lots of space and a bubbly, professional staff which really make a difference. Unless you are looking for an especially unique hotel experience in Brighton or a something on a much smaller scale, then the Thistle is a very good bet for friends, families or couples.

      From
      See the offer