Abbey Hotel & Conference Centre

Louie, I think that was his name, was tall with yellow hair and really helpful. He was friendly, quick with the service, and happy to give directions and ideas for things to do nearby. When we ran out of soap, he brought another bottle straight up. He did mix up one order and brought me gin with orange juice after I’d asked for vodka and coke. An honest mistake, and hardly worth mentioning after all the help, though how do you confuse those two? The hotel was decent enough for the night. It’s a bit old school, with dated decoration and utilities, but it did the job. I’d recommend it for a shorter stay on the Isle of Sheppey.

The Abbey Hotel was clean, and the garden had been made special for my friends. There was plenty of parking, and the facilities were clean and well maintained. I was there for a friend’s wedding vow renewal, but didn’t stay overnight or eat, so I can’t give five stars. The ceremony was lovely, and the staff, including the manager, were very nice, professional, and helpful.

Breakfast took more than an hour to arrive. Once it was served, there was no cutlery, and we had to ask for everything. Tea and bread came as if they were a big favour. 21st century. Bravo. The room hadn’t been cleaned. Cobwebs were hanging around, there were dried spiders on the walls, and the curtains looked like they’d never been washed, with dust piled on them. The place itself is very nice, but I can’t recommend it. My wife and I thought someone was drilling through the ceiling when the shower pump in the attic started up. It serves all the downstairs showers, and its vibrations carry through the whole building. At 6:00 a.m., one person showering wakes everyone. After a trip, there’s no chance to rest while people are showering.

We’ve never tried to sleep on a worse bed. It felt more like a sheet of MDF. For £70 a room, you’d at least expect something half decent.