What’s Seaside HQ like?
This stylish basement flat is in the heart of Brighton’s trendy Kemptown area. The one-bedroom apartment is just moments from the beach – and some of the best bars and restaurants in the city.
How dog-friendly is Seaside HQ?
Very. Dogs are incredibly welcome at the flat and there’s a fantastic courtyard garden that is nice and secure. You’ll need to bring your own beds, bowls and food but if you forget any of the essentials, Bone Idol – one of the premier pet boutiques and grooming parlours in the area – is just around the corner. There’s no additional charge for pets to stay at Seaside HQ – as long as you send a few pictures to the owners so they can share them on Instagram! They also ask that dogs are not left alone in the flat, which is totally fair enough.
Tell me more about Seaside HQ
The one-bedroom flat is located in a Grade II listed Georgian building, a two-minute stroll from the seafront. It has its own entrance and everything you need for a short break away, including a full kitchen. Everything about the flat is super-cool, from the black and white chevron flooring to the stylish bedroom, complete with locally-produced neon sign.
Although the bedroom is at the front of the house, it’s quiet at night and the king-size bed is really comfy. I loved the funky feature wallpaper too, and the organic Fruits of Nature toiletries in the bathroom. Lots of thought has gone into the decor too, and there are lots of little nods to Brighton, cool coasters and retro film posters dotted around. Guests are even invited to enjoy a complimentary gin and tonic when they check in!
If the flat itself isn’t impressive enough though, the zen-like courtyard garden is the icing on the cake. It was fully refurbished in early 2021 has two swing chairs to chill out on by the back door. Follow the steps up to the bamboo-covered pathway and you’ll find another table and chairs in a little suntrap. The cosy Nook is also tucked away up here and this covered seating area is a real treat. It even has its own wifi connection and heating, not to mention a selection of board games to play.
If you are coming by car, be aware that there is no parking at Seaside HQ. It can be tricky to find an affordable space in central Brighton but we found a spot a short walk away via the Your Parking Space website.
What’s the food like at Seaside HQ?
The apartment is self-catering, but you certainly won’t go hungry here. Complimentary tea and coffee is provided (as well as the gin!) and if you want to cook up a feast, you’ll find everything you need in the well-equipped kitchen. However, Kemptown’s cool bars, cafes and restaurants are practically on the doorstep so it would be a shame not to check them out. The handy check-in manual has lots of recommendations, many of which are dog-friendly.
We visited Seaside HQ when the third lockdown restrictions started to ease and drinking and dining outdoors was back on the menu. As a result, we treated ourselves to a takeaway from Kemptown’s Pizzaface and took the dogs to the nearby Sidewinder beer garden for a pint. We also popped to pet-friendly Starfish & Coffee for brunch, and can highly recommend a visit. In the 2020 Brighton Restaurant Awards, it was named the city’s Best Cafe.
Are there resident dogs at Seaside HQ?
No, but owners Vikki and Mel have two dogs of their own – Elvis, a Jack Russell and miniature poodle cross, and Jackhuahua Bo Derek, pictured above. They are both regular visitors to the apartment.
Where are the best dog walks near Seaside HQ?
The seafront is literally at the bottom of the road and from here, you can walk for miles. Turn left towards Brighton Marina and Saltdean Lido or turn right to go towards the pier and city centre. Dogs are welcome on Brighton beach – although restrictions apply from May 1 to September 30.
There are some great city parks in Brighton, too. Queens Park is a 10-minute stroll from Seaside HQ – just walk straight up the road in the opposite direction to the beach. Dogs are not allowed in certain sections of the park but these are well signposted. Preston Park, on the main road into Brighton, is the largest urban park in the city. For more ideas when it comes to things to see and do in Brighton, check out our Ruff Guide to the area.
What Ernie and Stan loved about Seaside HQ
Exploring the courtyard garden, being so close to the beach, visiting the dog-friendly delights of Kemptown
What I loved about Seaside HQ
The stylish decor, the complimentary G&T, the fantastic location
How to book Seaside HQ
Overnight stays start from £80. To book the apartment, visit the Airbnb listing.