The Palace Hotel

The hotel, a grand historic building, stands out for its prime seafront location in Paignton, offering picturesque views and direct access to the promenade. Guests are consistently impressed by the friendly and attentive staff, who contribute significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. The hotel's spacious and comfortable rooms, along with its excellent leisure facilities, including a superb indoor swimming pool, are frequently highlighted as key strengths. This establishment is particularly well-suited for couples seeking a relaxing getaway, families looking for convenient access to the beach and local attractions, and older travelers who appreciate its traditional charm and comprehensive amenities. Pet owners will also find the hotel accommodating. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests are advised to promptly report any room-related issues, such as heating or window concerns, to the reception for quick resolution. Additionally, booking slots for the spa and pool facilities in advance is recommended to guarantee access.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of facilities and amenities that enhance the guest experience. The indoor swimming pool is consistently praised as superb, lovely, and well-maintained, providing a warm and clean environment for relaxation, though some note the changing rooms could benefit from an update. Adjacent to the pool, guests can enjoy a sauna, steam room, and a bubble pool, although the latter's temperature sometimes matches the main pool. The beautiful, large garden area with sun loungers and outdoor seating offers a tranquil space. For convenience, there is ample free parking on-site, including EV charging points. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel with good connection strength. The bar is generally well-regarded for its pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff, despite occasional comments about slow service.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally find the rooms to be spacious, bright, and clean, with many appreciating the comfortable beds and fresh linens that ensure a restful night's sleep. However, a recurring theme is that many rooms and bathrooms appear dated and in need of refurbishment, with some mentioning tired decor, clunky plumbing, or chipped fixtures. While overall cleanliness is high, some minor issues like dust or uncleaned surfaces have been noted. Noise levels can vary; most guests find the rooms quiet, but some have experienced disturbances from other guests, entertainment, the lift shaft, or even kitchen noise. Issues with windows being difficult to open or providing inadequate ventilation are also mentioned, and some guests have reported problems with heating or inconsistent shower temperature and pressure.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options receive mixed but generally positive feedback. Most guests praise the breakfast for its variety and quality, with options ranging from a continental buffet to cooked-to-order hot items, though some find the portions small or the food not hot enough. The evening meals are frequently described as tasty, excellent, and good value, with a changing menu that offers a selection of starters, mains, and desserts. However, some guests have experienced inconsistencies, such as food running out or being served lukewarm. Afternoon tea is often highlighted as a delightful experience, though a few reviews mention issues with organization or the freshness of certain items. The hotel generally caters well for gluten-free diets, but some specific dietary needs, like vegan options, may require prior arrangement.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent location directly on the seafront, offering easy access to the beach, promenade, and Paignton Pier. Its central position places guests within convenient walking distance of the town centre, various shops, and restaurants. The hotel also serves as an ideal base for exploring the wider English Riviera area, with popular destinations like Brixham and Dartmouth easily reachable. Guests appreciate the ample free parking available on-site, which is a significant advantage. While the town of Paignton itself is sometimes described as a little tired, the hotel's immediate surroundings are pleasant. The hotel is generally considered accessible, with ramps at the main entrance and internal stairlifts or ramps, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness. Guests frequently highlight their professional and accommodating demeanor, noting that nothing seems too much trouble. The check-in process is generally smooth and welcoming. Housekeeping staff are commended for their efficiency and for maintaining high standards of cleanliness in the rooms. While most interactions are positive, some guests have noted occasional instances of slow service at the bar or a perceived lack of empathy from certain reception staff regarding room requests. The hotel is also recognized for its pet-friendly service, making furry companions feel welcome, and its family-friendly service, with staff going above and beyond for younger guests.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that while the hotel is pet-friendly, an additional charge may apply for bringing pets. Access to the spa and pool facilities may sometimes incur a small surcharge per room, and lockers within the spa area might also require a fee. It is advisable to inquire about these costs upon booking or arrival. The hotel frequently hosts coach parties, which can occasionally impact the availability or service speed of dining options. Some guests have noted that certain amenities, such as lattes at breakfast or specific breakfast items, may come with an additional cost. While the hotel provides basic toiletries, guests may wish to bring their own shampoo. Rooms may have limited electrical sockets, so bringing an extension cord is a practical tip.