Canterbury Bell, Margate by Marston's Inns

Being so close to Westwood Cross was a real plus, and we enjoyed having the pub next door. The staff there are friendly, though it gets very busy around rush hour, so a quiet drink might be tricky then. Room 204 smelled musty, or possibly moldy, when we arrived. The team quickly moved us to Room 105, which was much more comfortable. We appreciated how promptly they handled it. The bathtubs are quite high to climb into, which may be awkward if you have trouble stepping up. We prefer showers, so that was a downside. Once we’d changed rooms, though, it was a pleasant stay.

The manager stepped in and offered to make me coffee behind the bar after I found the machine wasn’t working that morning. I appreciated that, since it’s the level of service I’d expect. Before that, the male staff member I asked was dismissive, and the manager only got involved when I went to take a photo of the broken machine. The stay itself was pleasant enough. The room and bathroom were clean, and the facilities were adequate.

Housekeeping did a wonderful job, and we liked the room apart from the window. Paper had been stuffed into the gaps, but a draft kept blowing through. At breakfast on both Saturday and Sunday morning, our waiter wasn’t very friendly. He needs some training in people skills.

The Canterbury Bell won us over. The atmosphere was great, the staff were friendly, service was good, and the food was all 10 out of 10. We made the most of dinner and drinks there. The location worked really well for getting around. Buses stop opposite the inn and run every 8 minutes, and there’s a huge shopping area across the way with just about every shop I could imagine. Our room was spacious and clean, and the staff were always keen to help and make sure we had what we needed. We could simply ask if we needed anything extra. I wasn’t keen on the fixed showerhead, though. I’d definitely recommend both the Inn and the Pub to everyone I know. It felt like a perfect getaway, and I’m so glad I found it.