The Esplanade Hotel

This hotel is highly regarded for its spectacular views overlooking the bay, offering guests breathtaking vistas from many rooms and public areas. Its friendly staff consistently receive praise for their helpfulness and attentive service, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. The hotel is noted for its cleanliness and generally offers good value for money, particularly for those on coach holidays. With consistent entertainment and a prime location, it appeals to couples and families seeking a traditional seaside break. Sightseers will find it well-placed for exploring the area, though older guests or those with mobility concerns should be aware of the hilly surroundings. To enhance your stay, consider requesting a sea view room for an even more memorable experience, and be prepared for the hilly terrain by utilizing local transport or the nearby cliff lifts.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides a range of facilities, including a bar that offers reasonably priced drinks, with some guests enjoying special half-price evenings. A pleasant terrace or patio area with stunning views is available for guests to relax. While there is a games room and a coffee lounge, guests frequently note that there is only one lift, which can lead to significant waiting times, especially during busy periods or for those with mobility challenges. On-site parking is available, though it can be limited, particularly when coach parties are present. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally available, but its strength can be inconsistent, often being more reliable in the public areas near reception. The hotel is typically warm and cozy throughout, providing comfort even during colder months.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's cleanliness, with rooms often described as spotlessly clean and maintained to a high standard daily. However, feedback on room condition and decor is mixed; while some rooms have seen recent updates like new carpets or fresh paint, many are noted as being dated, tired, or old fashioned, with some reports of worn furniture, peeling wallpaper, or damp patches. Many rooms are praised for being spacious or even huge, and those with sea views are highly sought after. Bed comfort varies, with some guests finding them very comfortable, while others report them as hard or having thin mattresses. Bathroom experiences are also inconsistent, with some enjoying new large showers and plenty of hot water, while others encounter cold bathrooms, intermittent hot water, poor water pressure, or dated fixtures. Noise from renovations or entertainment can occasionally be an issue.

Dining & Food Quality
Feedback on dining and food quality is quite varied. Many guests find the food to be good, delicious, and plentiful, with a decent variety of choices for both breakfast and dinner. However, a significant number of reviews describe the food as average to poor, with small portions or dishes served cold. Breakfast specifically receives mixed comments, with some praising the cooked English breakfast, while others report lukewarm coffee or tea, or issues with availability. Restaurant service is a recurring point of concern for many, often described as slow, unorganised, or chaotic, leading to long waiting times despite a pre-ordering system. While the dining area often boasts lovely views, some guests have noted issues such as flies.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a superb location on an elevated position, providing excellent views over the bay and town. It is conveniently situated within easy walking distance to the seafront, town center, and attractions like the Spa Theatre. However, its position on a steep hill or cliffs means that accessibility can be challenging for some, particularly those with mobility issues. Guests frequently mention the availability of cliff lifts or funiculars as a helpful way to navigate the incline to the beach and Spa complex, though these are not always operational. The hotel is also well-connected to public transport, with regular buses and proximity to the train station. On-site parking is available, which is a notable convenience for guests traveling by car.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive overwhelmingly positive feedback, frequently described as friendly, helpful, attentive, and professional. Guests often highlight their willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay, with many commenting that staff "couldn't do enough." The check-in process is generally smooth and efficient. Housekeeping is praised for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and providing daily service. Bar staff are often noted for their pleasant demeanor and efficiency. The hotel manager is frequently mentioned for their visible presence and proactive approach to guest satisfaction. Overall, the staff contribute significantly to a welcoming and family-like atmosphere, making guests feel valued and at home throughout their visit.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing ongoing renovations and refurbishment efforts, which some guests have noted can cause noise during the day. It maintains a pet-friendly policy, though some guests have expressed concerns about the lack of specific facilities for pets, such as designated dining areas. Many guests stay as part of coach holiday packages, which often include pre-ordered meals and organized entertainment, influencing the overall experience. The hotel consistently offers good value for money, especially considering the amenities and services provided. Evening entertainment, including live acts and bingo, is a regular feature, contributing to the lively atmosphere. The bar prices are generally considered reasonable, adding to the overall affordability of a stay.