The Strand Hotel

We only stayed one night after an event and arrived late, so we can't give the place a proper review. We knew we'd booked a basic, cheaper room, and it suited our needs. The young man at reception was pleasant and told us pizza was available. Pepperoni was the only kind left, and it was decent enough. With the window open, we could hear the waves, and in the morning we saw the blue sea. The bed was comfortable and we slept well.

I agree with the hotel's three-star rating. The bed was comfortable, and the reception area looks appealing, but the hospitality just wasn't there. I was literally cringing while staying here. The pool table at reception and a few good staff members are about the only reasons I'd give it even one star.

The room was clean and a decent size for under £50 a night. Staff were friendly and helpful, and you can get bar drinks and freshly cooked pizzas, for around £10, all night. The hotel is directly across from the beach, about a minute from the door to the sea. Our shower took a few minutes to warm up, but eventually got nice and hot. The lift wasn't working during our stay, so check on it before booking if you have mobility needs and rely on it. Recommended.

The staff were nice enough, though they didn't seem keen to be there. The hotel needs a lot of care: there were badly patched holes in the tiny, cupboard-sized bathroom, and the overall condition was poor. Despite the sea view in our replacement room, we couldn't open the windows because the glass seemed to be falling out. The heating only worked for a couple of hours during the day, and there was no hot water. In February, by the seafront, the room was cold. I couldn't be bothered to complain by then. We'd booked the budget double first, where the shower and toilet had been fitted into what looked like two wardrobes, leaving hardly any space. When we complained, we were told that was the budget room. They first wanted £40 to move us, then lowered it to £20, which I paid. It was partly our fault for booking the budget room. Parking costs about £9.50 a day, as advertised, and the location is good, but expect lots of stairs. It's also strange that a hotel serving food doesn't offer breakfast.