Hydro Hotel

4.6/5 based on 2026 reviews
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A very nice hotel, one of the best bedrooms we have ever had with superb views. Food good sometimes not very exciting. Very nice sitting areas downstairs in the hotel. Staff very nice and helpful. The weather was not suitable for using the swimming pool but it did look a very nice one. Thegardens were lovely.
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Stayed at this hotel for 3 nights and as always it lived up to our expectations. The staff are all very accommodating, polite and friendly especially the wonderful Emma on reception.
Nothing was too much trouble and our little dog was warmly welcomed! Each morning they set us a table in the library so we could enjoy the wonderful breakfast this hotel serves.
The hotel was comfortable and clean (maids were very friendly) if a little hot during the night. The fridge and tea making facilities were appreciated.
We actually attended a wake held at this hotel and the location was excellent, the room private enough. Maybe the food (sandwiches) was a bit ordinary and not presented very attractively but the guests were appreciative so maybe I am being picky!.
When we stay at Eastbourne we always choose this hotel - you can't beat it! Morning walks alone the beach and promenade with our little dog leave us with long-lasting happy memories. Thank you all the staff at the Hydro!
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A wonderful dining experience in a very stylish room. The menu was varied and the food cooked perfectly. The staff are attentive and polite. The hotel has lovely grounds and amazing views of the sea. You won't be disppointed.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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My wife and parents visited the Hydro Hotel on Saturday, to celebrate my mother-in-laws Birthday, which had been over shadowed by a family funeral the day before, so a trip to The Hydro was a lovely boost. Food was excellent. My wife, being coeliac, was catered for brilliantly, as staff were made aware to be very cautious regarding cross contamination. I am pleased to say that the gluten free scone was a big hit, and my in-laws very much enjoyed their fruit scones too. Compliments to Shannon, who was as friendly and professional as always, as were all the staff, again , as always, very courteous. It is really lovely to go somewhere like this where you have a truly lovely experience, good food, excellent customer service, in beautiful surroundings, without feeling rushed. My father=in=law hates feeling rushed, and The Hydro never imply this at all. Highly recommend for cream teas, cakes and an all round wonderful few hours. Well done The Hydro! Thank you.
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My wife stayed 3 nights and I joined her and friends for the last day. I found the hotel buzzing on arrival on a bright Sunday afternoon. The hotel is old but "stately" and clean so you have to take that into account. The communal areas and rooms were nicely decorated albeit not necessarily to my taste. Our room and bed was comfortable, and the bathroom adequate but clean. The food and service was exceptional. Staff were polite and efficient. Food was served on very hot plates (unusual in any hotel). In fact, after finishing my cooked breakfast my plate was still very hot: commendable. Food was also exceptional good and tastefully presented. We will definitely stay again and recommend it to others. It has two electric charging points (30p per kw), nice grounds, reasonable amount of parking (some around the corner) and splendid views high above the sea. The only negative point is the 'hill's from the esplanade. It is okay going down but a bit of a slog coming back. Great stay though and thanks to the staff: all well trained.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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The hotel is beautifully presented and well maintained whilst retaining many of its period features. The staff have perfected the art of good service and the room we stayed in had an amazing view, was spotlessly clean and comfortable. We chose to take our evening meal in their Crystal Restaurant, and based on our experience, I’d highly recommend that you don’t miss this opportunity. The whole dining experience was perfect in my opinion, the waiting staff were friendly, attentive and highly professional. The quality and presentation of the food was at the level you’d expect from a Michelin starred restaurant for at least half the price.. We will be most definitely returning to dine here in the future. Breakfast, the following morning was also served in this restaurant and once again, the food quality and service was outstanding. Overall, we were very impressed with our stay and the final bill for our accommodation, dinner and breakfast was highly reasonable and excellent value-for-money. We’re very glad to have discovered The Hydro and are looking forward to returning as soon as possible.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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I had a one night stay at the hotel recently. It was excellent. I wasn't planning on being awake in my room very much, so just booked one of the basic doubles on the website. I was pleasantly surprised when I went into 334 to find it had a sea view and was divided into two small rooms, giving a separate lounge area. It was very clean and comfortable and I had a lovely sleep Breakfast was very good indeed with items cooked to order, rather than a buffet. The hotel has a very traditional feel, but not in a dated way, in terms of its appearance, service and finishes. I would love to stay again. Also thanks to staff for finding, keeping hold of and then posting back my battery pack, when I realised I had left without it.
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Although I’ve always enjoyed afternoon tea at the Hydro in previous years, yesterday I was extremely disappointed as were my family members. The lack of sandwiches provided was ridiculous. We were given one piece of bread which was cut into what I can only describe as tiny rectangles which was no more than a mouthful of food. When myself and my family asked if it was possible for a few more we were told we would have to pay extra.. Having spent over £100 I would of expected a few extra sandwiches to be supplied without charge and less of a sugar overload.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We decided to travel East rather than West for a few days break.Neither my husband or I had been to Eastbourne. What a pleasant surprise we got! The Hydro Hotel was even better than we expected,charming rooms, tastefully furnished in the period of the building,extremely comfortable and homely.Our bedroom was overlooking the gardens and sea and again very comfortable beds and soft bed linen.In the dining room every table was well planned with the necessary ,both white and brown sugar lumps as well! breakfasts were delicious and such a wonderful selection and choice.We had lunch and early supper as we didnt want to eat later in the crystal dining room and we found the food very good.All the staff are thoughtful,caring considerate,cheerful and smiling ,we could not fault anything and will certainly be returning.This hotel is certainly under good management .Thank you to everyone for giving us such a happy and welcoming stay .
tripadvisor.co.uk
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I stayed at The Hydro Hotel with my Mum and Sister and the hotel was really nice and clean and staff were very friendly and helpful. The food was excellent and had plenty of choices on the menu. The hotel garden was kept nice and tidy and the seating areas outside were excellent and the views were great. I would stay at this hotel again and would recommend it to others.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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This was our first stay at this hotel, we stayed for seven nights. Our room was very spacious, clean and comfortable especially the beds, which was a very important feature for us. The spacious lounge area is very welcoming and well-kept as is the beautiful garden area overlooking the sea where we spent several very pleasant hours. One feature we particularly enjoyed was the Jigsaw room where we got to meet and chat to many like-minded quests who soon became friends as we toiled over the current jigsaw provided. The staff were always friendly and helpful. Breakfast was very good with a selection to suit all tastes. We had two evening meals in the main dining room and although the food was well presented, we personally found it a little tasteless. Several nights we decided to have our meal in the very nice conservatory which was mainly very good although we did have a couple of occasions when hot food was not available. I must add, that we did complete the Feed-Back form in our room before leaving and addressed the problems we had, (not really expecting it to be taken any notice of). A few days later I received a personal email from the manager in which he personally apologised for the problem we had, and that it would be addressed. We were very impressed to receive this email, knowing that the form had been read and people’s complaints/concerns and suggestions do get listened to.
We enjoyed our stay, considered it good value for our money, hope to return and would certainly recommend this hotel.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We stayed 2 nights, dinner, bed and breakfast.

The Room (no 212) 'double-bedded room with a sea view' overlooked the garden and Beachy Head. It was clean and comfortable - although the bathroom was a little cramped and there was only a shower. The decor was rather dated.

We had no difficulty finding a space for our car in the hotel car park during our entire stay.

Breakfast was good and prepared to order. The evening meals were quite enjoyable rather than memorable. Service in the restaurant was cheerful and helpful but a little rushed. During our meal, some tables were being prepared for breakfast, which we found unrelaxing. Wine prices were reasonable compared with those of hotels of a similar category.

Generally, the hotel staff were courteous and efficient.

The public rooms were elegant and comfortable: furnished in Edwardian style with large mirrors, chandeliers, table lamps and portraits.

Some reviewers have mentioned that the clientele was mainly elderly. We saw a good proportion of young families with children.

We would definitely recommend the Hydro as a good example of a well-appointed seaside hotel and we would be happy to stay there again.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We stayed at the Hydro for 2 nights as part of a wedding party (wedding not at the hotel), Bride and groom had pre-booked rooms and secured these at a discounted rate of £130 per room for 2 people B&B. As hotels often do, any slightly discounted rooms are always at the back of the hotel and true to form ours were overlooking the car park. Our room was fairly nice despite the unfortunate view but my Daughters view was very drab- also overlooked the car park and the noisy A/C unit ? kitchen , couldn't tell - was very small with modern furniture and badly plastered walls and nowhere near as nicely furnished as ours despite paying the same price.
Positives are: main areas are lovely , bar and dining room staff very professional and friendly, (varied at reception).
We dined in the restaurant on our first night and although a little regimented in terms of sittings (at 15 minute intervals) the food was very good and there was a wine list
to suit all pocket - only downside was when i checked the bill they had charged us for a more expensive bottle of wine to what we had - by about £%, however, we had waited so long at reception to check out and had to get Daughter to the train station so couldn't be bothered to argue. Only slight criticism re food offer is that there is very limited choice for vegetarians. - Bar prices good. slight quirk in that don't accept cash after a certain time in the evening but can obviously add to final bill. We also had a bit of a wait to get into breakfast the following morning but the choice and quality of food - and the service made up for it.
Mother of the bride had a bit of a faff on arrival as the lobby lifts are very narrow and couldn't take her wheelchair. Hotel insisting that they had described the room properly i.e its a 'mobility room, not a 'disability room;' - although no-one could tell us what the difference was! wise to speak to the hotel before booking to check it meets any special requirements.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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Beautiful old fashioned Hotel by the sea. Spacious and comfortable and the staff were charming and the beds were so comfortable. Rooms quiet and clean. Really welcoming atmosphere. Like a set from an Agatha Christie film. Everything was perfect and of the highest standard all round - except the food. Beware and eat out!.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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It's been a while, several years, since my last stay at The Hydro. I stayed overnight on the 6th of September. I was delighted to see that everything was as I remembered it. The staff are very helpful and friendly. My room was spotless and comfortable, if I could have smuggled the bed out I would have. Within five minutes of being seated for breakfast I was tucking into a full, Full English. Properly cooked with good quality ingredients plus plenty of tea and toast. Hopefully it won't be as long again before I return. Thoroughly recommended for the staff, rooms, food and location.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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This was my second visit.

Had a lovely afternoon tea.

I have food allergies and my friend is vegetarian.

The staff was friendly and accommodated both our requirements with no fuss.

Everything was presented lovely and taste wonderful.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We had a family meal in The Meads function room. The staff that organised the booking were very organised and accommodating. The food was delicious with an excellent variety including gluten free options. The waiters were also very attentive. The hotel is beautifully decorated and we enjoyed using the gardens overlooking the sea. We would definitely recommend dining at The Hydro.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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Having arrived at the Hydro Hotel Eastbourne for a short stay on the 27th August 19, we found it most welcoming. The interior was extremely well kept and the gardens were delightful, it was a pleasure to partake in garden games or just relax in the sunshine. One could never fault the Delicious cream teas or the excellent food and service in the Crystal Restaurant . A truly immaculate Hotel that has its guests at its heart. This hotel is blessed with amazing staff and obviously an exceptional Management Team. Well done all of you .5/5 Lady Marilyn Johnson
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We been there 4 days it’s nice hotel with delicious food in restaurant and a nice pool and very friendly local people. My husband likes golf so they had a lovely time in their garden. In warm weather the room is hot doesn’t have air conditioner.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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A most unspoilt hotel, hanging onto its historical roots. Lots of little lounges to hide yourself away in. The conservatory has a light airy feel, with an outlook over the croquet lawn and gardens towards the sea.
High tea is a must if your visiting the hydro.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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My fathers 80th birthday meal, booked by his sister and brother in law,unfortunately his immediate family could not be there, enquired if they had music or a pianist to request a tune unfortunately not however Rosie added a wonderful personal touch by decorating his table a card and candle in his dessert!! How wonderful, my dad was over the moon and of course another great meal as always. Thank You So Much X
tripadvisor.co.uk
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We had our wedding at the hotel on the 22nd August 2019. The hotel was very professional and amazing from booking the date until the actual day. They accommodated my family from abroad and took care of us for 5 days.
Special thanks to Angie who was always happy to help and showed us around on the day when we were just looking around for venues. We knew straight away that we will get married there.
And even more special thanks to Francois who was there with us on the day of the weeding and he always made sure that everything and everyone is perfect. His passion for his jobs is something that you don't see very often. He is just amazing and he made the whole day even more memorable.
Highly recommend!!!
tripadvisor.co.uk
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Our first stay in the lovely Downland Suite (room 210), which has been recently refurbished to a high standard. Not sure the modern “four poster” bed frame entirely works as it makes the room look smaller and the slatted base doesn’t give enough support for the mattress. We also felt some of the furniture was in the wrong rooms, ie chest of drawers for clothes in the lounge and cupboard with fridge, plus tea/coffee making quipment on dressing table in the bedroom! But, of course, that’s just our opinion!

The staff as ever were all very attentive, friendly and helpful and the above are all little personal niggles - we love staying at this hotel and hope to be back in the autumn but our first choice would be the South Downs Suite (110).
tripadvisor.co.uk
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I travel to Eastbourne occasionally for work and each time I stay at the Hydro and have never been disappointed.

Arrived early evening and checked in with the friendly reception staff. Found my room and settled in. Yes, room was warm but expected considering the conditions outside. I opened the windows and soon the room started to cool off. The room itself was very clean and tidy with all the facilities I needed for a nights stay. TV, desk, chairs, shower, mini fridge, handing space, tea/coffee making facilities and obviously a bed.

I headed off to town with a colleague for a drink and food and returned around 10:30pm. Headed off to bed not long afterwards and found the bed extremely comfortable, even though it was a single (as booked).

In the morning, headed down for breakfast where you’re created with an excellent selection. The staff were extremely friendly and attentive. Breakfast done and time to check out!

All in all a great place to stay at a very competitive rate. If I had one negative comment to make then it would be regarding the WiFi. I was in room 117 and the strength of the signal is near nonexistent sadly. Not the end of the world but in these modern times I’m sure there must be a way of getting coverage for the whole building.

I will be back next time I’m that way.
tripadvisor.co.uk
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This hotel is situated close to the seafront with lovely views of the bay and the town. The room we had was very nice, lovely beds and furniture and a big bathroom, which was a little bit dated. We had side view of the sea and the town from the second floor.
The premises were really nice and very well kept, huge garden with lots of benches, tables and chairs, even an outdoor pool.
Breakfast was superb, excellent service and personnel. Food in the conservatory was very good and not overpriced, service there could be improved.
We stayed there for two nights, which is advisable if you fully want to enjoy the hotel.
Parking is easy, as no parking fees apply for parking on the roads around the hotel.
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