SHE is one of the most photographed subjects in the world.

But who needs a photograph when you can admire the Grand Old Lady from the comfort of an armchair, sumptuous bed or even a bathtub?

The view of the West Pier, and Brighton Palace Pier for that matter, makes the Harbour Hotel & Spa that extra bit special.

The corner feature rooms in particular have freestanding baths in the bedroom and a raised seating area which act as a perfect spot to watch the world by.

Of course not all of the rooms have the luxury of facing out to sea, but views aside, there's almost as much to marvel in on the inside.

All of the bathrooms have spacious monsoon showers and luxurious toiletries and robes.

Nice touches also include decanters of complimentary sherry and gin and Nespresso coffee machines.

There's a contemporary yet fun seaside decor running throughout the hotel, with playful marine images acting as a reminder of the hotel's location: playful Brighton.

And there's plenty of fun to be had here too - especially when the day turns to night in the buzzy HarBAR.

It's the perfect place to kick off the evening with a cocktail or glass of bubbly - either at the marble top bar or one of the cosy seating areas - before making your way to The Jetty seafood restaurant.

We enjoyed a glass of Sussex sparkling wine and snacked on some chicken popcorn from the 'while you choose' nibbles from the menu.

The Jetty uses locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to offer an extensive menu of dishes alongside an eclectic wine list.

It also offers reasonably priced set menus and mains from £12.50.

I opted for the crab croquettes, quail pie and peanut butter parfait and my entire meal was nothing short of perfection.

If you fancy a more laid back dining experience, the hotel does claim to offer 24 hour room service - but I'd order early to avoid disappointment as there were only chips available just after midnight when I fancied a snack after enjoying the night life of the city.

The mini-bar hadn't been replenished either, so it was a biscuit and an espresso in an oversized coffee mug for me.

Perhaps this was a blessing in disguise, because I was on good form in the morning and ready to enjoy breakfast.

The hot breakfast is waiter service so you can sit back and relax, while there is also a cold buffet which offers a range of continental treats.

While the food was good quality, our tea and coffee failed to turn up and I'd say it is a little overpriced.

Should you choose to go elsewhere instead, the hotel is in an ideal location to explore the city's culinary delights. The same goes for all of its main attractions.

Inside the hotel, guests will soon be able to enjoy what will undoubtedly became quite a sought after spa in the city.

The basement ESPA spa offers a hydrotherapy area, a fitness suite and 17 metre lap pool, and there are plans afoot for Brighton’s first rooftop infinity pool.

We were lucky enough to be given a sneak preview before its official opening by manager Alan Petrie.

He told us how when they moved in, they discovered another floor below the existing building which is now home to part of the spa.

They've done an excellent job in preserving it as it would have been while transforming it into a luxurious space.

But you'll still catch a glimpse of kiss-me-quick style seaside artwork dotted around the retreat. It is Brighton after all.

Putting a few minor blips and criticisms aside, our stay was thoroughly enjoyable.

The Harbour Hotel have cleverly managed to give the space a luxurious yet fun and almost cheeky feel to it.

Best of all, it feels very Brighton.

Brighton Harbour Hotel

64 King’s Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 1NA

Tel: 0844 811 1104

brighton@harbourhotels.co.uk

Double rooms from £110 in low season; rising to £265 in high. Breakfast included.