The Empress

For a special occasion, I’d happily recommend the Empress Hotel. We had Sunday lunch on 1st March, and the food and service were outstanding from the moment we arrived until we left. Our favourites were the Peri Peri King Prawns and Manx Queenies to start, then Roast Manx Beef and Lamb Shank, all with a selection of fresh vegetables. There’s a range of dishes on the menu to suit everyone.

I booked a few days at the Empress Isle of Man while visiting family in town. Check-in was fine, and the exterior looks quite nice, but inside it feels old and badly in need of an update. The walls, carpet and decor on the way to my room brought an old British seaside hotel in the 1980s to mind, not 2026. The single room was tiny and cold. Even with the heat turned all the way up, it never really warmed up, and the bathroom was freezing most of the time. The shower and tub were basic. I also don’t understand why there’s no towel rail by the shower. It’s on the other side of the room, so you either drip across the floor to get your towel or leave it on the floor to reach it. How much would a rail near the shower cost? The TV was okay, though small, and the remote only worked when pointed at just the right spot. Google calls this a 4-star hotel, but for me it’s 2 stars at best. I probably wouldn’t stay again.

The breakfast buffet had plenty of options, from a full English to cereal, croissants, pastries and fruit. You could also order Manx kippers or poached or boiled eggs. We enjoyed our stay, and the staff’s response to a problem with our room made a strong impression. We were unhappy with the first room, but reception and the manager sorted it quickly and moved us to a lovely room overlooking the bay. The lounge bar and reception were welcoming, and every staff member we met was friendly, polite and professional. The hotel is right on the promenade and close to everything. We’d definitely stay again when we visit the island.

The only reason I’ve given four stars is the check-in. We’d already paid for breakfast, but nobody explained how to access it or the wifi. We worked it out later, though reception could have made those details clear when we arrived and were filling out forms, showing ID and getting keys. A little more help for first-time guests would make a better first impression. It’s a seafront hotel in a central spot, within walking distance of local sights and nearby Onchan. It seems to be the number one hotel in Douglas. I was surprised there’s no pool, sauna or spa, and I didn’t see a gym. The beach isn’t suitable for swimming, as it’s rough and cold, with no lifeguards.