The Sandringham Hotel

This hotel is a popular choice for its prime seafront location, offering easy access to the pier, shops, and town center, making it ideal for sightseers and budget-conscious travelers seeking convenience. Many guests are part of coach trips, indicating its suitability for group travel, though some note it caters to an older demographic. The hotel is frequently mentioned as being in need of or undergoing refurbishment, with some rooms already updated. While it offers good value for its rates, guests should manage expectations regarding modern decor. To enhance your stay, consider inquiring about recently refurbished rooms, and be prepared for potential queues during peak dining hours, especially if you are part of a large group.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides various amenities, though some are noted as being dated. An elevator is available, but guests should be aware that navigating the hotel often involves stairs due to its older, multi-level structure, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. Wi-Fi is offered, though its reliability can be inconsistent, with better connectivity typically found in reception areas than in individual rooms. Evening entertainment, including singers and bingo, is a regular feature, contributing to a lively atmosphere, particularly for coach parties. The bar is generally well-regarded for its reasonable prices and friendly staff, though some guests have noted its traditional decor and occasional quiet periods. On-site parking is not available; guests are directed to a nearby multi-story car park for a fee.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on room cleanliness and comfort is notably mixed. Many guests describe their rooms as clean, tidy, and having comfortable beds with fresh linen. However, a significant number of reviews highlight issues such as dated decor, worn carpets, and stains on walls or furniture. Some rooms are described as small or cramped, and a few guests reported severe cleanliness concerns, including mold, damp smells, and even instances of bed bugs. Bathrooms vary, with some being spacious and well-maintained, while others are noted as tiny, lacking basic amenities like shower gel, or having issues with hot water consistency and leaking showers. Noise levels can also be a concern, with reports of street noise or sounds from neighboring rooms.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining experience receives varied feedback, with breakfast generally being a highlight. Most guests praise the breakfast for its plentiful options, good variety, and hot, freshly prepared items, often served buffet-style. However, some mention long queues during busy periods, particularly when coach parties are present, and occasional shortages of items like coffee or juice. In contrast, feedback on dinner and other evening meals is more inconsistent, ranging from "okay" to highly critical. While some found the food tasty and plentiful, others described it as basic, cold, or of poor quality, with specific complaints about small portions or certain dishes. The dining room itself is often described as large and bright, offering sea views, but can become chaotic during peak times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is consistently praised as one of its strongest assets. Situated directly on the seafront, it offers convenient access to the pier, shops, and various attractions within easy walking distance. This central position makes it an excellent base for exploring the area. While the location is highly advantageous, guests should be aware of the hotel's accessibility challenges. The building features numerous stairs and a somewhat labyrinthine layout, which can be difficult for guests with mobility issues, even with the presence of lifts. Parking is not available on-site, requiring guests to use nearby public car parks, typically for a daily fee.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receive high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the positive interactions with reception, bar, and dining staff, noting their willingness to assist with requests and ensure a pleasant stay. The check-in process is generally described as smooth and efficient. While most experiences are positive, some isolated incidents of less helpful or rude behavior from specific individuals have been reported. Housekeeping service receives mixed reviews; while some guests appreciate daily towel changes and room tidiness, others have noted inconsistencies in room cleaning or replenishment of in-room amenities like tea and coffee supplies.

Additional Information
The hotel is frequently noted for its ongoing refurbishment efforts, with some guests experiencing newly updated rooms while others encounter older, more traditional decor. This suggests a gradual improvement process. It is often a popular choice for coach parties, which can influence the overall atmosphere and dining schedules. Guests should be aware that the hotel's older structure means navigating a layout with many steps and corridors, even when using the lifts. Despite some of its dated aspects, many guests find the hotel offers good value for money for its central location and the services provided. Some rooms may lack hairdryers, and guests might need to request them or bring their own.