The Esplanade Hotel by Compass Hospitality

The hotel's seafront location is a defining feature, offering guests direct access to the beach and stunning views, making it an ideal choice for sightseers and couples seeking a relaxing getaway. Many guests highlight the exceptionally friendly staff who consistently go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, contributing significantly to the hotel's welcoming atmosphere. While opinions on room comfort vary, many find the beds conducive to a good night's sleep, and the hotel generally maintains a good standard of cleanliness. Its close proximity to the harbour and town center also makes it convenient for exploring local attractions, appealing to families and budget-conscious travelers looking for value. Guests should be prepared for potentially small bathrooms and are advised to inquire about the lift's operational status if mobility is a concern, and note that parking incurs a daily fee.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a pleasant lounge area and a bar where guests can relax, though some visitors noted that the bar's operating hours were limited, particularly on Sundays, and the drink selection could be improved. A significant point of feedback concerns the lift, which guests frequently reported as being out of service, requiring them to use the stairs, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage. While some guests appreciated the presence of tea and coffee making facilities in their rooms, there was mixed feedback regarding heating and temperature control, with some rooms being too warm and lacking adjustable thermostats. Additionally, several reviews indicated a general lack of entertainment options within the hotel, which some guests found disappointing during their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. While many rooms are described as clean and presentable, with some recently decorated, others are noted as being dated, in need of refurbishment, or having minor issues such as paint marks, screw holes, or uncleaned windows. The beds generally receive positive comments for comfort, though some guests found issues with twin beds pushed together, sloping mattresses, or excessive firmness. A recurring concern is the extremely small bathroom size, often described as cramped with limited space to move or access the toilet. Similarly, the shower pressure and water temperature are frequently criticized, with many guests reporting weak trickles of water that are often lukewarm. Noise can also be an issue, with some reviews mentioning a lack of sound insulation leading to disturbances from corridors or outside traffic. In-room amenities like TV reception can be inconsistent, and some rooms lack sufficient plug sockets or basic toiletries like soap and hand towels.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast at the hotel receives mixed but generally positive feedback for its taste and variety, with many guests praising it as delicious and a good start to the day. However, some reviews noted issues with food temperature, describing plates as cold, and a limited selection of items, particularly for cooked options. The quality of the coffee served at breakfast was also a point of contention for some, who found it very weak. In contrast, the hotel's dinner offerings and restaurant availability were frequently criticized; many guests found the dinner menu unappealing or discovered the restaurant was closed, leading them to dine elsewhere. The bar also received negative comments regarding its limited operating hours and a restricted selection of drinks, with some guests finding the prices to be on the higher side.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests directly on the seafront and within easy walking distance of the beach, harbour, town center, shops, and pubs. This makes it highly convenient for exploring the local area and accessing various amenities. Guests also appreciate its proximity to public transport, including the train station and bus routes, facilitating further travel. Parking is available on-site, which is a significant convenience for many, though it typically incurs a daily fee of around six pounds, which some guests were surprised by. However, accessibility within the hotel can be a challenge for those with mobility issues, as the main lift is frequently reported as being out of order, necessitating the use of stairs, which can be difficult with luggage.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelming praise for their exceptional friendliness and helpfulness. Guests frequently highlight their willingness to go the extra mile, describing them as attentive, professional, and efficient in addressing any needs or concerns. The check-in process is generally noted as quick, easy, and welcoming, setting a positive tone for the stay. Many reviews commend the staff's prompt responsiveness to issues, with problems in rooms or other areas being sorted out quickly and efficiently. However, feedback on housekeeping is mixed; while some rooms are maintained well, other guests reported instances of dirty cups being left, coffee supplies not being replenished, or rooms not being tidied daily, suggesting some inconsistencies in this service aspect.

Additional Information
The hotel operates a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant draw for guests traveling with their dogs, and many appreciate the welcoming attitude towards their furry companions. However, some pet owners noted minor challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas nearby for their pets. A recurring theme in guest feedback is the hotel's overall condition, with many reviews mentioning that the property appears tired or dated and is in need of further modernization or refurbishment. Despite ongoing efforts to update certain areas, some parts of the hotel still show signs of wear. Nevertheless, a large number of guests consistently emphasize the excellent value for money the hotel offers, particularly given its prime location and the level of service provided, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.