The Queens Hotel

We were a group of 20 and everyone wants to come back. The welcome was excellent, the hotel was spacious, comfortable and warm, and the food and service were outstanding. Rooms were small and dated, but spotlessly clean, with comfortable beds, plenty of hot water and everything we needed. I used the pool three times during our three-night stay, and the booking arrangements worked well. The entertainment was just what we wanted, with bingo and a live singer, plus music to dance to. Exceptional value for money.

The breakfast was all-you-can-eat, with plenty of continental and cold options as well as a full English. Everything was fresh, hot and tasty, and although it got busy with the coach trip, staff kept it moving and replenished the food. We arrived at 7pm on a road trip through Devon and Cornwall to find the car park full, partly because the coach took up a few spaces. On-street parking opposite worked fine. Check-in was quick and welcoming. Our small room was clean and tidy, but could do with a decor refresh. The bed was comfortable, especially after a reasonably priced glass of wine at the bar, and we were in a quiet part of the hotel, so the coach party didn't disturb us. There was a singer and bingo in the large bar, which weren't to our taste, but the separate pool table area was great. The hotel is close to local amenities and the pier is a short walk away. It was a great option for a short break and reasonably priced for bed and breakfast. They do seem to cater for a certain age group with the coach tours, so we'd probably look elsewhere next time in Paignton, though that doesn't reflect on the good service we received.

The building definitely needs an upgrade. The pool was dirty and didn't look like the photos, and the bathroom was dusty. The showerhead was so mouldy that only a slow drip came out, and there was a very strong sewage smell on the third floor. We stayed one night; staff were friendly and the experience was pleasant, but I wouldn't recommend a longer stay.

Staff were fantastic and couldn't do enough for us. The food was good, and the location is great, close to the beach and local amenities. The small double room was very small and looked tired, though it was good value for money. The bathroom needs updating, and the pool was okay but the dated area around it could use refurbishment. There were lots of older guests, including several coach parties, which may suit some visitors.