The Pier Hotel

The hotel's prime location directly opposite the pier and on the seafront is its most consistently praised and memorable feature, offering guests immediate access to coastal views and leisure activities. Many guests find the hotel offers good value for money, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a cheap getaway. The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment under new management, with visible efforts to update the premises. While some guests praise the cleanliness and comfortable accommodations, others note areas needing improvement. Similarly, feedback on the staff is mixed, with many highlighting their helpfulness, though some report issues with service availability. The hotel is well-suited for sightseers and couples looking for a convenient base to explore the town, and families appreciate the spacious family rooms. To enhance your stay, be mindful that noise from other rooms or the street can be an issue, and plan for street parking, which can be challenging but is facilitated by permits from the hotel.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the availability of a lift, though some note it can be small or slow. Many rooms are equipped with a fridge, which is a convenient addition for keeping drinks and snacks cool. In-room amenities also typically include a kettle with tea and coffee supplies, though some guests found the kettle size or lack of a detachable lead inconvenient. While Wi-Fi is generally available, some visitors experienced issues with connectivity or signal strength. A hairdryer is provided in rooms, though some are wall-mounted and less powerful than desired. A recurring point of feedback is the absence of luggage storage facilities, which can be problematic for guests arriving early or departing late. The hotel does not feature a swimming pool or a dedicated fitness center, focusing instead on essential room comforts.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is varied. Many guests report clean beds and linens, finding the rooms generally tidy. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues such as cobwebs, dust, stains on bedsheets or walls, and mould in bathrooms or on shower curtains. The overall room condition is described as mixed; some rooms appear recently refurbished and well-decorated, while others are noted as dated, with peeling paint, damaged walls from water leakage, or uneven floors. Bed comfort also receives mixed reviews; many find the beds comfortable, but some describe mattresses as too soft or short for taller individuals. A consistent concern is noise levels, with frequent complaints about thin walls, noisy neighbors, and disturbances from the street or the nearby pier clock. Bathrooms, while often featuring a bath and hot water, are sometimes criticized for rusty fixtures, cracked tiles, or inconsistent water pressure.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not currently operate a full-service restaurant or bar on site, a point frequently noted by guests, with some mentioning these facilities appear closed or are under refurbishment. Consequently, breakfast availability and quality receive mixed feedback. Some guests report a good selection, including cooked-to-order options, while others state that breakfast is not provided at all due to the lack of a kitchen. For those who experienced it, the breakfast is described as acceptable value, though some found the quality inconsistent. Guests often rely on nearby establishments for their meals, with many mentioning the convenience of finding various restaurants and cafes within walking distance. The absence of on-site dining means guests should plan to explore local eateries for their culinary needs.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as a major advantage, placing guests directly opposite the pier and on the seafront. This prime position offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and other town attractions, making it ideal for exploring the area on foot. Public transport is also readily available, with bus stops conveniently located nearby for connections to destinations like Beachy Head and Brighton. Parking is a frequently discussed topic; while the hotel offers parking permits for street parking, guests often report that finding a free space can be difficult and requires patience. Some guests note that despite the presence of a lift, certain rooms may still require navigating stairs, and overall accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges might be limited due to the building's older structure.

Staff & Service
Feedback regarding staff and service is quite varied. Many guests commend the friendly staff, describing them as helpful, welcoming, and attentive, particularly during check-in and with inquiries about local amenities. Some specific individuals are praised for their professionalism and willingness to assist. However, a notable number of reviews express concerns about staff availability, especially outside of specific reception hours, leading to issues with check-in processes or a perceived lack of support. Some guests encountered unresponsive or unprofessional interactions, particularly when issues arose with bookings or room conditions. The hotel's approach to service appears to be in transition, with some guests experiencing excellent care while others report a less consistent or satisfactory level of engagement from the team.

Additional Information
The hotel is currently undergoing refurbishment and is under new management, which guests note as a reason for some of the transitional aspects of their stay. Many guests consider the hotel to offer good value for money, especially given its prime location. A notable policy is the £50 holding fee charged upon arrival, which some guests find unusual and report can take up to seven days to be released. Another point of feedback is the hotel's policy of providing only one key per room, which can be inconvenient for multiple occupants. Furthermore, the limited reception hours mean staff may not always be present, leading to potential delays for check-ins or a lack of immediate assistance for guests. Some visitors also mentioned receiving strict or unusual house rules messages prior to their arrival.