It is a gleaming, shimmering display of great wealth. The saloon in the Brighton Pavillion has been freshly restored and looks like it did when it was first finished in 1823. George IV commissioned a new interior for this room in his favourite palace after he became king to reflect his royal status.

An exhibition depicts the restoration project and gives an insight into an incredibly involved piece of research and skilled craftsmanship. For example, it took a series of lucky coincidences for the researchers from Humphries Weaving to establish the exact design and colour scheme of the crimson and gold silk jacquard draperies. A short video describes the work that was required and is well worth watching.

Right now, there is yet another reason to visit the Pavillion. An exhibition of hats by Stephen Jones is spread throughout the entire palace. Often made for celebrities, the hats express the wit and creative spark of one of the UK’s foremost milliners.