Alexandra Hotel

The hotel offers a memorable stay primarily due to its prime seafront location and extensive recent refurbishment, which has transformed its interiors. It is particularly well-suited for sightseers and couples seeking a coastal getaway, as well as those attending local events like the tennis tournaments or air show. Guests consistently highlight the exceptional friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, along with the hotel's overall cleanliness. While many appreciate the comfortable accommodations, some note variations in room size and persistent issues with shower functionality. To enhance your stay, guests are advised to inquire about the hotel's parking permit upon arrival to secure convenient street parking. For those sensitive to light, bringing eye masks is recommended as some rooms can be very bright in the mornings. Additionally, be aware that shower pressure can vary, and it may take time for hot water to come through.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a comfortable and nicely decorated lounge area, which many guests enjoyed for relaxing, having a drink, and playing cards in the evenings. This communal space is often praised for its inviting atmosphere. While a bar is present and staffed by friendly individuals, its availability and offerings can be inconsistent, with some guests noting it was not always open or had limited selections. The hotel also provides a lift, which is appreciated by guests for easy access to upper floors, though some have described it as small. Overall, the common areas contribute positively to the guest experience, offering spaces for relaxation and socializing.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally commend the hotel's high standards of cleanliness, frequently describing rooms as spotless and well-maintained, particularly after the recent refurbishment. However, feedback on room size is mixed, with some finding rooms spacious and comfortable, while others describe them as small, tight, or even claustrophobic, especially around the bed. Bed comfort receives varied reviews; many guests report comfortable beds ensuring a restful sleep, though some have experienced issues with soft or bouncy mattresses, and isolated instances of bed bugs have been reported. Noise levels can be a concern due to thin walls, allowing sounds from adjacent rooms or the street to be heard. Bathroom and shower issues are frequently mentioned, including inconsistent hot water availability, low shower pressure, leaking showers due to lack of doors, and very small shower cubicles. In-room amenities like tea and coffee are typically provided and replenished. The absence of air conditioning means rooms can become very warm, especially during hot weather, though windows can be opened for fresh air, which can sometimes lead to noise or pigeon issues. Some guests also noted a lingering fresh paint smell after the renovation.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback regarding dining options is a significant theme, with many guests noting the hotel's current lack of a full restaurant or consistent food service beyond breakfast. While some reviews mention a good breakfast being available, particularly during certain seasons, a recurring comment is the absence of breakfast service altogether, or that it requires pre-ordering the night before. When breakfast is offered, opinions on food quality vary; some describe it as excellent with good choices, including a cooked breakfast and continental options, while others found it basic, with complaints about instant coffee and the quality of items like sausages and croissants. The hotel's bar is mentioned as a place for drinks, but it does not consistently offer food. Guests often resort to nearby cafes and restaurants for their meals due to the limited on-site options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's seafront location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, offering direct access to the beach and stunning sea views from many rooms. It is ideally situated within easy walking distance of numerous restaurants, cafes, and popular attractions such as Devonshire Park Tennis, the Towner Gallery, theatres, and the train station. This central position makes it highly convenient for exploring the area on foot. Parking is a notable feature, with the hotel offering a discounted parking permit for guests to use for street parking nearby, which is generally plentiful. While the permit is a significant benefit, some guests have noted minor discrepancies in the stated price versus the actual cost. Overall, the hotel's accessibility to local amenities and transport links is a major draw for visitors.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, being described as exceptionally friendly, helpful, accommodating, and attentive. Guests frequently praise their willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests, from providing extra amenities to resolving issues promptly. The welcoming demeanor of the team contributes significantly to a positive guest experience, making visitors feel well-looked after from arrival to departure. While general housekeeping is often commended for maintaining cleanliness, some guests have reported inconsistencies, such as towels not being changed daily or rooms not being serviced without a specific request. The staff's efficiency in handling luggage storage and providing local recommendations is also frequently appreciated.

Additional Information
A prominent theme in guest reviews is the hotel's recent and extensive refurbishment, which has significantly updated its decor and facilities, making it feel modern and fresh. However, this ongoing transformation means that some services, particularly food service, may not be fully operational or consistent, leading to varied guest expectations. Some guests have reported issues with the booking process and payment discrepancies, where the hotel attempted to charge a deposit despite prior arrangements or where the final cost differed from initial expectations. It is advisable for guests to clarify all charges and services directly with the hotel prior to arrival to avoid any misunderstandings.