Hatfield Lodge

The low room rate and convenient seafront location worked well for my two-night business trip in December. The staff were very friendly and helpful, and breakfast choices were good; the chef cooked an excellent breakfast. The building feels old and long overdue for an update, with threadbare carpet in places. My twin room at the side had a terrestrial-only TV and tea and coffee facilities. The layout meant I could only watch TV from the beds. At night I could hear the people upstairs using the toilet, and early in the morning road sweepers and other vehicles outside woke me. The blinds were either fully open or shut, with no in-between setting. In the shower room, the liquid soap dispensers above the basin and in the cubicle felt uninviting, and the water was uncontrollably hot. A pint of tap water with a splash of cordial cost £2.50.

The burger and chips were a real highlight. I’m a burger geek, and that was probably the best burger I’ve ever had. The fries-shaped chips had that chip-shop style fry and were excellent too. The place has spectacular sea views, and as soon as you walk in it feels high end. A really great establishment!

We had a lovely evening, and the meals were very nice. There were 18 of us in a large room for a friend’s 60th birthday, and the staff looked after us well.

The staff were fantastic and really helpful, and there’s a restaurant downstairs with outdoor seating for warmer days. The hotel is right on the beach, which is an amazing location. I’d book a sea view room for the view and the sound of the waves at night. Would definitely recommend staying here if you’re in the area.