Brighton’s iconic Modernist building

Introducing Embassy Court in Brighton, England

Embassy Court is an eleven storey block of flats situated on the Brighton seafront on the corner of Western Street and the Kings Road. It was designed by the architect Wells Coates and completed in 1935.

It is amongst of the most outstanding examples of pre-war Modernism in the UK, it has a grade II* listed status and remains a major Brighton landmark. This beautiful, elegantly proportioned block contains seventy-three flats, with awe-inspiring sea views, is considered one of the coolest places to live in Britain.

The History

Embassy Court was not just home to the wealthy and famous. The luxury lifestyle on offer required the presence of up to 40 staff, a number of whom had accommodation on site.

Like the last English country houses of the 1930s the presence of maids, butlers and other servants was incorporated into the architectural scheme with separate lifts and rear entrances to many of the flats from the walkways intended primarily for their use.

Embassy Court tours and filming

As a private building, Embassy Court is normally closed to the public. Guided tours offer an opportunity to see inside the building and hear its story. Tours run at times from April to October, usually during Brighton Festival Fringe in May and Heritage Open Days in September.  We also run tours at other times – contact us for information.

For over a decade, guided tours of Embassy Court have been led by leaseholders and residents of Embassy Court. Most tours last between an hour and 90 minutes and typically include:

  • An introduction to Wells Coates’ architecture
  • Roof terrace access
  • Displays of archive materials
  • Viewing of an original Embassy Court fitted kitchen, on loan from Brighton Museum
  • Walks around parts of the front and rear of the building
  • Plenty of photo opportunities

Embassy Court is a popular venue for films and photo shoots. Click on the link below to learn more.