Queensbridge Hotel

The seafront location is lovely, and there’s free on-road parking nearby. We also had access to a back garden. Breakfast was very tasty, and housekeeping came daily to empty the bins and leave fresh water and milk. The staff were welcoming and friendly. The building needs some refurbishment: plaster is coming away from the ceiling, with water stains visible. The carpets didn't seem to have been vacuumed properly, and there were bits left behind. In our room, the toilet flush was weak and the shower pressure poor.

Dogs are welcome, though they can't go into the breakfast room. Parking nearby costs £7 for 24 hours, but finding a space can be hard at busy times. The hotel is by the cliff railway end of the promenade, between two student halls of residence. That makes it handy for visiting families, and we didn't have any disruption from students. Booking directly with the hotel is something I'd recommend, though you can only do it by phone.

After 35 stressful minutes, I said I was leaving. Only then was I offered a “decent room”, and I declined to look at it. I'd paid for a Seaview, but a rude staff member hadn't given me one. I showed reception the pictures I'd seen when booking, and when I said I'd ask for a refund, I got a smirk and was told it wouldn't happen. Before that, I was moved to the 4th floor, although the lift only went to the 3rd. I got stuck in it and the staff member who helped was irritable. I had to walk up to the 4th floor, where the window was so high I would've had to stand on the bed to see out. Later I walked down steps in the dark and stumbled on the last two.

The breakfast was the best part, simple but delicious, and served by a really lovely lady who was helpful and efficient. They were happy to provide both gluten free and vegetarian options, which we appreciated. It's a great little hotel, clean and comfortable, though a bit dated.