The Royal Clarence Hotel

We didn't stay long enough to have much of an experience there, thankfully. The owner was very rude to us, and comes across as unprofessional and passive aggressive when replying to people's complaints. I was also shocked by the £27 charge for a lost key. Of course a lost key costs money, but that amount is a joke and feels like theft. Having read more reviews since, I'd stay well away from this man and his business.

I was so excited to stay in a hotel right on the Promenade for the first time, and I was happy with the whole experience, from the owners and cleaning staff to my room at the back of the hotel. Thanks, Nick and Ellie, for being such great hosts. One tip, if you phone the hotel directly, you're likely to get 10% off the price per room, which is cheaper than booking through Hotel.com or Booking.com.

A good base if you mainly need somewhere to sleep and leave your bags. There's no onsite restaurant or entertainment, and the facilities are basic, so it's probably not for anyone after luxury. But everything is clean and well maintained, the staff are very friendly and helpful, and the hotel is quiet and right on the beach. Guests can use a fridge and microwave, and there are lots of places to eat and drink within a 5-minute walk. Reception gave me a useful map at check-in showing breakfast spots, local bars, and pubs. It may be difficult for anyone with mobility issues. There's no lift, and inside is a bit of a maze, with steps in unexpected places and some steep stairs.

I was charged an extra £100 when checking out, after the owners and other staff shouted at and threatened me, saying the room smelled like drugs. No one had used or taken any illegal substances. I honestly think they planned this from the start because they could see I was young and vulnerable. I'd booked through booking.com for three people, but was told the room was only for two. Our train was delayed, so we arrived late to check in, and the owner acted as if that was an inconvenience because he wanted to lock the hotel doors earlier. I wouldn't recommend this hotel.