The Arncliff Hotel

We arrived expecting three booked rooms, but the man at the desk said they’d cancelled them a week earlier, despite taking our money three days before we arrived. He gave no apology and just stared at us. People I took to be drug users were going in and out of reception, so it was a blessing we didn’t stay. Luckily, the hotel we usually use each year managed to give us rooms. From the reviews, this seems to happen often: the hotel takes your money, cancels, then is reluctant to refund you. Shocking customer service. AVOID!!!!!!

We only used the room for an afternoon break before heading home, so I can't say how the shower pressure was, whether there was noise from other guests, or what breakfast was like. Breakfast was included, but we didn't have it. For £39, the room was about what I expected, and it was clean. Check-in was quick and friendly, and the modern bedroom furniture matched. The bathroom was clean too, though its decor and fittings looked older. I'm picky about mattresses, and this bed wasn't like my own, but it was much more comfortable than I'd expected for the price. There were just three thin pillows for the two of us and no extras, so one of us used towels underneath for more height. The TV remote didn't work. We could have asked reception to replace the batteries, but it didn't bother us enough. It's still a budget stay in an old hotel, but there are worse places in town. The staff seem proud of it and make the best of what they have.

The place is completely closed, but they've taken our money. I'd give it one star if I could.

The only real downside was the drunken idiots outside, though that's not the hotel's fault, especially in Blackpool. We had a really enjoyable stay and the value for a couple of days away was fantastic. The woman at reception was helpful and kept checking whether we needed anything. Our room, bedding, and bathroom were very clean. For what they charge, I'd happily come back.