Visiting with friends, we each paid £140 for one night's bed and breakfast in what was described as an 'Executive Room'. I can see now that I inadvertently looked at the photos of the Executive Rooms for the accessible room before making the booking, but nonetheless, what an enormous disappointment we had. There is no way that the rooms we were given should be described as 'Executive Rooms' and having taken this up with the hotel, they actually agree (apparently it is Best Western who insist on the term) and confirm that the room is simply a 'sea view'. Even so, our friends on the 2nd floor had such a tiny window that the sea view was disappointing to say the least.
The rooms were tired and in need of refurbs, particularly if they are to be described as 'executive rooms'. The carpets in the room were dirty and marked, the mirrors and tiles in both rooms had cracks, the sink would not empty properly, the bathroom had black marks in the grout, the cups were cardboard and I was told we could not have proper cups/mugs because disposable ones must be provided in rooms. What should have been a 'treat' for us unfortunately was simply a massive disappointment.
The breakfast was ok, though no choice was available. I asked for a spoon for the yoghurt and was brought a dessert spoon, which was far too big. There were 2 x tables for 4 near the window taken by single men, surely common sense dictates that they should not take up a table for 4. One of the men was extremely rude and aggressive to us, saying we would give him Covid. We were genuinely shocked to see someone had taken a dog into the restaurant (not a Guide Dog) and some people were in the restaurant in their pyjamas ... not sure why this is considered appropriate.
I was told that the prices are reasonable as it is 'peak season', but we all feel we were charged 'luxury' prices for a basic room in a budget hotel. It is the most I've ever paid for a night in a hotel and we felt so disappointed as we'd booked and paid in good faith for 'executive rooms', but the rooms left so much to be desired and the hotel did not live up to expectations.
Some positives:
- the staff were friendly and helpful, particularly Chris on Reception.
- the location is very good
- the terrace at the front of the hotel is very pleasant and we were fortunate to have good weather and it was warm enough to sit out on the evening less