The Lilly

We went in expecting something like the fancy dining and sparkling glasses shown in the Lily’s photos, but the place was quiet on Saturday, with only a few people by the bar and a couple having snacks. We were told to sit anywhere and chose a table set up and ready, though two people in our group immediately noticed crumbs and dust and wiped it themselves. The girl behind the bar was polite but clearly run off her feet, handling drinks, food orders, and a phone call about dates and details for a room booking. She needed help. Our tea came in a chipped pot, and the sugar bowl was dirty and nearly empty, but we were hungry and ordered food anyway. The skirting boards, windows, and toilets were filthy. Then we saw food brought out to the bar area, and it looked awful, cheap and overcooked, not worth the prices. We quickly cancelled and left. I’d avoid the place until it gets a proper clean and the food improves.

The food was a real highlight: dinner was delicious and plentiful, and breakfast was fabulous too. We got lucky and had the head chef, I think his name was Wayne, for both meals. He was a top fellow and looked after us. Beth greeted us at the door while she was cleaning, then took care of us all night. Nothing was any trouble, and she’s a credit to the hotel. The rest of the staff were amazing too. The hotel was great, and the locals made us feel welcome. We’ll definitely return. Thanks for a great stay, Dean and Deb.

After a brisk January walk along the coast, we went in hoping to get a light lunch. We’re local, but it was our first visit and will be our last. The pub looked like it needed a deep clean everywhere, from the bar and tables to the toilets, chairs, and dado rails. The girl behind the bar was rushed off her feet serving, checking visitors in, taking food orders, and answering the phone. My teapot lid was chipped on both sides, and there was no sugar in the bowl. We changed our minds about ordering after seeing the food. One older man got the bleakest ham sandwich I’ve ever seen, with a shredded clump of iceberg lettuce, and I felt sorry for him. The chicken strips at another table didn’t look appealing either, and the fries were so skinny they were nearly see-through. It’s a shame, because the location and breathtaking view could make this place much better, if you could see out through the windows.

After our original venue cancelled at the last minute, I got in touch at short notice about hosting a baby shower. They were very accommodating, and the venue and food were lovely. There was ample parking along the prom too, and the price was reasonable.