Premier Inn Rainham - Kent

I've been staying at Premier Inn Rainham regularly since 2014, and the staff have always been welcoming. This visit was no different: check-in and service were very good, and Danielle at reception was friendly. My room was comfortable. I ate with a friend at Manor Farm Beefeater next door; the food was okay, though nothing special. The continental breakfast was good.

The room and bed were very comfortable, as expected at Premier Inn, but the adjoining Beefeater was a letdown. The food was okay; service was probably the worst I've experienced. It wasn't busy, yet staff were on their phones or seemed to avoid our table. We waited 20 minutes for someone to take the first order and 40 minutes for the first course. After that, getting more drinks or ordering dessert was a joke. Staff nodded when we tried to get their attention, then ignored us. It felt like nobody experienced was coordinating things. I won't go back.

The Premier Inn was good, with friendly staff. There's no lift, though if you're on the first or second floor you can ask to use the small luggage lift for heavy bags. At the Beefeater, we had two breakfasts booked for 10am, with service ending at 11am. The selection was poor: no Greek-style yoghurt, muffins or pain au chocolat, and only a couple of croissants. The hot water machine didn't work. We asked for more croissants, waited over 30 minutes, then got ones that were overcooked and burnt. The cooked food was good, but there was no ketchup. I found the staff offish. I'm grateful for my shareholder card, which gets breakfast free with the hotel stay. If I'd paid, I'd be asking for a refund.

The room itself was clean, tidy and comfortable, just like any other Premier Inn. My problem was being fined after using the so-called free parking. There's a sign in the car park, but it's not clear right away that guests have to register their vehicles with the hotel. Reception had no tablet or guest book, and the staff member didn't mention registration at check-in. Guest relations also disappointed me. Premier Inn should have staff take down vehicle registration numbers during check-in, put a clear notice on the counter, or add a box to the online booking form. I hope this saves someone else from getting a fine.