The Pier Inn

We stayed overnight after walking the Eskdale Valley Way. The room was comfortable and clean, with a great harbour view, and we got it for a very good price, though the price seems to vary. The pub is a great little spot on the harbour, and the staff were friendly, polite and efficient. Breakfast was good, with a nice choice. Our one disappointment was that dinner service had ended by 6.45pm when we went down. There are other places to eat in Whitby, but after walking all day, we really didn't want to go back out.

I can't remember getting worse service in a pub, unless you count Dick's Last Resort in Nashville, TN, where that's the whole point. Maybe we were just unlucky, but this bartender was awful. There were only three people ahead of us, yet it took about 15 minutes to reach us. I asked for their only real ale and a coffee. The ale wasn't available, fair enough, but she said she couldn't serve hot drinks until another staff member arrived. I've never heard that one before. I think she just didn't want to work. When I asked why she needed help pressing the hot chocolate button I could see on the screen, she told me to "take my custom elsewhere" and turned straight to the next person. I asked whether I could order something else and she snapped, "No." Incredible. I've since heard this is a hotel, so maybe they rely on that and aren't bothered about pub business or good service.

The price and location were excellent, and the staff were lovely and friendly. Our rooms were spacious and very clean, with bottled water and tea and coffee facilities. Breakfast was outstanding. I'd highly recommend this place, and we'll definitely stay here next time we're in Whitby. 10/10.

The pub and room were both lovely, and breakfast was great. At 9pm they cleared the pub customers off the balcony because guests were staying in the rooms, which was a nice touch. Don't be put off by the parking situation. There's plenty of 24-hour parking at the marina, and it's not too far to walk.