Penny Hedge, Whitby by Marston's Inns

This hotel offers a comfortable and practical stay, distinguished by its on-site pub and restaurant which serves as a lively hub for guests, alongside the significant convenience of ample free parking. Guests consistently commend the hotel's overall cleanliness, the comfort of its beds, and the exceptionally friendly and helpful staff who contribute significantly to a positive experience. Its location, a pleasant and walkable distance from the town center, is also a frequently praised aspect. The hotel is an ideal choice for couples seeking a relaxed getaway, families who appreciate the spacious room options and convenient dining, and sightseers looking to explore the local attractions of Whitby and the surrounding Yorkshire Moors. For a more tranquil experience, guests are advised to request a room situated away from the main road.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of practical facilities and amenities designed to enhance guest comfort. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, though a few guests noted occasional interruptions in service. Each room is equipped with convenient tea and coffee making facilities and a hairdryer, along with a television, which some guests found to be on the smaller side. While air conditioning is available and appreciated for cooling, feedback on the heating system was mixed, with some reporting it to be slow or not fully effective. A recurring comment from guests is the limited storage space within rooms, specifically the absence of drawers or a full wardrobe, which can pose a challenge for unpacking during extended visits. It is important for guests to be aware that the hotel does not feature an elevator, meaning access to upper-floor rooms requires using stairs.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently commend the hotel's commitment to cleanliness, describing rooms as consistently spotless and tidy, with some even noting the carpet felt clean enough for bare feet. Room comfort receives mixed but generally positive feedback; many found the beds to be exceptionally comfortable, with some specifically praising the Hypnos mattress for a restful night's sleep. However, a minority of guests reported issues with lumpy mattresses or feeling springs, and some found the beds to be too soft. The bathrooms are generally well-regarded for their cleanliness, spaciousness, and the provision of a bath with an overhead shower offering good water pressure and hot water, though a few mentioned minor issues like lukewarm water. While many rooms are described as quiet, some guests experienced road noise or disturbances from other noisy guests, particularly if their room was near the main road or entrance. The room decor is often seen as functional, though some suggest it could benefit from updating to move beyond a somewhat dated appearance.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience garners varied feedback, particularly concerning breakfast. Many guests praise the breakfast as very good and excellent value, highlighting the plenty of choice available, including hot pastries and well-presented cooked options. However, some found the breakfast to be poor or average, citing issues such as a lack of coffee or yogurt, poor quality ingredients, or items like undercooked sausages and snotty eggs. Service at breakfast was occasionally impacted by staffing issues, leading to delays or a lack of plates and cutlery. The evening meal in the restaurant generally receives positive comments, with many guests enjoying the good food and atmosphere, describing meals as delicious and enjoyable. Conversely, some guests reported slow service due to short staffing, a limited menu with items frequently unavailable, and instances of overpriced or overcooked food. The bar area is consistently noted for its good beer selection and pleasant ambiance.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is generally well-regarded for its convenience and accessibility. Situated a pleasant 15 to 20-minute walk from the Whitby town center and harbour, it offers a balance between being close to attractions and providing a quieter setting away from the main crowds. Guests appreciate the downhill walk into town, though the return journey is noted to be uphill. For those preferring not to walk, the hotel is conveniently located on a bus route with bus stops nearby, offering easy access to Whitby and other areas. A significant advantage highlighted by many is the ample free parking available on-site, which is a considerable benefit in an area where parking can be challenging. The hotel's proximity to a large Sainsbury's supermarket adds to its practicality. For guests with mobility needs, the hotel offers accessible rooms with wet rooms and sufficient space for wheelchair maneuverability, though some found the fire doors heavy. While generally quiet, some guests noted road noise due to the hotel's position near a main road.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff and service consistently receive high praise from guests, with many highlighting their exceptional friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Reviewers frequently describe the team as welcoming, polite, and always willing to go the extra mile, ensuring a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally reported as smooth and easy, with options for online check-in to save time, though a few guests experienced initial confusion or an abrupt reception. While the staff's dedication is evident, a recurring theme in reviews is the impact of staffing issues, particularly in the restaurant and during breakfast service. This has sometimes led to slow service, delays in replenishing items, or limited availability of certain food options. Despite these challenges, guests often commend the staff for working hard and maintaining a positive attitude under pressure. Housekeeping is available upon request, with guests needing to inform staff if they require their room to be serviced during their stay.

Additional Information
For those traveling with pets, the hotel offers a dog-friendly environment within its pub area, a feature appreciated by many guests. However, one review mentioned a disruptive barking dog during breakfast, which could impact the dining experience for some. Guests should be aware of the hotel's key card system, as some reported issues with cards not being programmed for the full length of their stay or the necessity of leaving a card in the room to maintain electricity, which can be inconvenient for multiple occupants. The hotel is frequently highlighted for offering good value for money, providing a comfortable and clean stay at a reasonable cost, though a few guests felt the amenities were basic for the price point. There is mixed feedback regarding a recent management transition, with some guests noting positive changes and improved service, while others expressed concerns about perceived reductions in facilities or service quality compared to previous visits.