The Marine Hotel

We had a lovely stay for my husband’s and my birthday. The hotel and location were great, and the staff were wonderful. Pasty is a real gem, warm, down to earth and professional. She pays attention to everyone’s needs at breakfast, keeps checking that things are right, and goes above and beyond. She never stops working. Many thanks, Donna and Gary.

The location by the beach was perfect, and the hotel was a busy little place between Christmas and New Year. Our room was clean and well stocked, and breakfast was lovely with good service. Check-in was easy, and the man who welcomed us couldn’t have been friendlier. The front desk staff the next day felt less welcoming. The noise from ordinary movement upstairs was almost unbearable overnight. We could hear every footstep. There was an issue with the mattress that was fixed quickly, but the replacement was hard and uncomfortable for me. The hotel got so busy that we couldn’t find space to sit there. Taking drinks to our room wasn’t a major problem, but it would have been nice to have a guest-only area. If there was one, we didn’t see it.

I found the hotel on Booking.com but called to reserve directly because of the fees hotels have to pay. I decided not to book after the reception call. Karen eventually answered, then spoke to me condescendingly and coughed straight into the mouthpiece. It made a terrible first impression. If this is how reception treats people, it leaves you wondering how the rest of the stay would go. I wouldn’t stay here, and I’d recommend calling to reserve just to see whether Karen has been sacked. Good luck.

The room was beautiful and clean, with a stunning sea view, and the staff were friendly and professional. It’s an easy, lovely walk into Whitstable town centre. Breakfast was wonderful and the bar was great. I’ll be back.