Hydro Hotel
Latest Reviews
This is the second time we've had a short break here,we went for the Autumn break this time which is very good value it was just as nice as before ,friendly staff ,good food ,but a little disappointed with the room, I would call it a small double a bit claustrophobic on warm nights,which it was ,we had glorious weather so pleasant to sit in the lovely garden to watch croquet on lawn ,almost a taste of a bygone age.If you are of a certain age this is the place for you.Only thing missing is evening entertainment,even a piano player would be welcome,but all in all very enjoyable
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a lovely Hotel the Hydro in Eastbourne is!! My husband and myself have been twice so far this year and hope to return again in the near future. We had a sea view room that was very spacious, very clean and we had a great view of the gardens and sea. The location was ideal, not too far from the town centre and the sea only a stones throw away. Meals at the Hydro are superb and the restaurant very spacious and clean with excellent staff who are very attentive to detail. We could not fault it at all ~ a big fat ten out of 10 on every front. The hotel also has plenty of parking. Thank you to ALL of the team at the Hydro, sooooo well done to you all.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Spent an enjoyable 3 nights B&B at this hotel. Food was good especially breakfast. In the evening we ate in the conservatory When our friends complained about their steaks the manager changed them without question. Also gave us all a free drink. The food in the main restaurant was excellent. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Residents very friendly and we would definitely come back again
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This is an old fashioned hotel with plenty of character crochet green , putting green the sea view room we had was spacious with great views from the bed of the Downs although dated . great heated outdoor pool unusual for Eastbourne . Breakfast average . Staff helpful and friendly . Good parking . Plenty of lounge seating . A great place to relax and get away from it all. Recommendations need to attract a younger clientele as the bar and lounge area late evening is pretty dead . Will visit again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Lovely old hotel,very different to your bright soulless new hotels.Our bedroom was quite small but very nicely decorated and spotless.The bathroom was ok and the shower was good.We liked the fact that at breakfast your order for hot food was taken and then served to you freshly cooked,much better than buffet style.The evening menu was very good with a different menu daily.I would like to mention Huw the barman who is a great character and very friendly.The gardens and pool area are also very nice.
My reason for not giving a five star rating is that upon checkout on our bill was a charge for£25.90 for food bill in the conservatory restaurant which we had not had due to the fact that we hadn't eaten in there at all during our stay.Upon informing the receptionist I felt that she did not believe me and did not even receive an apology when she eventually found that it should have not been on our bill.
My reason for not giving a five star rating is that upon checkout on our bill was a charge for£25.90 for food bill in the conservatory restaurant which we had not had due to the fact that we hadn't eaten in there at all during our stay.Upon informing the receptionist I felt that she did not believe me and did not even receive an apology when she eventually found that it should have not been on our bill.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
You really feel like you've stepped back to a different age,when service really meant something. The whole atmosphere of the place makes you feel like you,personally are very important to them. If you're looking for a place to have a chilled out break/romantic getaway or just want to feel a tad special for a few days,in surroundings you only normally see on classy period dramas,then the Hydro is what you've been looking for...
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I just spent one night, with an old college buddy, at the Hydro. We didn't eat dinner but had a pleasant one night stay and were lucky with fantastic sunshine.
The outstanding feature of the hotel were the staff. Te reception were fiddly, but when my car needed a jump start George, a sister came to the rescue bringing his brother into play and helping me sort it out.
The staff all want to be professional but are approachable and friendly, it's really old fashioned service at its best.
We had an afternoon drink no the pleasant bar, and I swam twice in the heated outdoor pool.
For a summer break for a few days, if you want old fashioned service, you cannot beat it!
The outstanding feature of the hotel were the staff. Te reception were fiddly, but when my car needed a jump start George, a sister came to the rescue bringing his brother into play and helping me sort it out.
The staff all want to be professional but are approachable and friendly, it's really old fashioned service at its best.
We had an afternoon drink no the pleasant bar, and I swam twice in the heated outdoor pool.
For a summer break for a few days, if you want old fashioned service, you cannot beat it!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Travelled too Eastbourne for family wedding. having broken my wrist 2 weeks ago I was a little worried how I would manage for 4 nights, The staff at The Hydro were so nice, I paid £2.00 extra for breakfast room service each day which really helped me, it always came on time with everything I had ordered . LOVE THE SAUSAGES..The Cleaners did a good job, The Porters were nice.. Everyone was very helpful. I liked the lawn area, could not use the pool because of my arm,, (Maybe next time),, Room & Bed were comfortable, I had a 3rd floor Seaview room, No Problems with seagull noise..Only negative Corridoors could do with a lick of white gloss..If you like a modern hotel its not for you, But if you want a comfortable, lovely setting with Fab staff then the Hydro is very nice
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed at the Hydro for a short break. Situated on the West Cliff overlooking the sea with views towards Beachy Head. Hotel is 15-20 mins walk from the pier either down steps and along the under cliff or along the promenade. Nice outdoor pool and croquet and putting green giving some idea of traditional nature of hotel. Lovely building with extensive public rooms. Prompt and efficient service from the staff. An enjoyable stay.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went with friends for lunch on Aug. bank holiday and had such a lovely meal. Three courses for £18.50 was so reasonable and the food was great. Two had starters of smoked salmon, and two tomato ad pepper soup. Three had liver and bacon with potatoes and veg (just superb) and one had scampi. The pineapple upside cake, served with ice cream, was so light and delicious. The service was friendly and efficient and a very relaxed atmosphere. Have already booked to return next week staying overnight for two nights on their special deal. Have also booked for New Year, we were that pleased with our lunch.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just returned today from a weekend at the Hydro .Yes it is an old building but that is part of its charm .The staff re really friendly and nothing was to much trouble.
We had an evening meal in the restaurant which was lovely likewise the breakfast was also really nice with plenty of choice.
The hotel is really clean in all areas the only small downfall was the bedroom there is no aircon so it is very warm but nothing that having the windows open couldn't sort out also the bed is very soft but the room was lovely and clean ,
The corridors to the room could do with a bit of a face lift but that is just a minor thing
Another posoitive thing is unlike other hotels that we have stayed in when you buy a couple of drinks from the bar its costs a fortune but I'm pleased to say that the Hydro bar is not like that it is very reasonably priced .
All in all it was a througly enjoyable weekend ,
We had an evening meal in the restaurant which was lovely likewise the breakfast was also really nice with plenty of choice.
The hotel is really clean in all areas the only small downfall was the bedroom there is no aircon so it is very warm but nothing that having the windows open couldn't sort out also the bed is very soft but the room was lovely and clean ,
The corridors to the room could do with a bit of a face lift but that is just a minor thing
Another posoitive thing is unlike other hotels that we have stayed in when you buy a couple of drinks from the bar its costs a fortune but I'm pleased to say that the Hydro bar is not like that it is very reasonably priced .
All in all it was a througly enjoyable weekend ,
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went for the afternoon cream tea. We were told not necessary to book a table and on arriving there were plenty of tables available and we were told to choose any one we wanted. It was busy with several large tables of people. We had to wait 15 minutes to place our order and that was after we asked if someone could take our order. Good choice of sandwiches but would have preferred option of mixed platter rather than option of two choices. Had to wait 20 minutes for tea and coffee to arrive and a further 15 minutes after that for the sandwiches, scones and cakes. However, they were beautifully presented, generous portions and delicious. We asked for a box to take the ones we couldnt eat home and this was immediately seen to. Appreciate staff were very busy and on the whole they did well. Would have given 5 stars but for the delays. Will definitely be returning.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We were in Eastbourne for a show & fancied afternoon tea somewhere decent & found the Hydro Hotel via tripadvisor.
I rang to book, but was told I could simply walk in, which was fine.
On arrival on a hot, sunny day, we fancied sitting outside, but was warned that the seagulls could be a problem.
We started outside, but after waiting for over 15 minutes to be served & being bothered by wasps & seagulls, we moved inside!
The sandwiches we chose were very plain on arrival & we needed to ask for some mayo to add some flavour to the chicken.
The scones were large & nice.
There are just 3 cakes given per person, which wasn't much compared to other places, but they were a fair size. More would have been nice for the price.
Finally, all the cups & plates were quite worn & scratched from constant use & cleaning.
They should be replaced to give a more quality feel to the afternoon tea experience.
Not the best afternoon tea I've had, but not the worst either!
It wouldn't take much to improve, but some TLC is needed at every stage.
I rang to book, but was told I could simply walk in, which was fine.
On arrival on a hot, sunny day, we fancied sitting outside, but was warned that the seagulls could be a problem.
We started outside, but after waiting for over 15 minutes to be served & being bothered by wasps & seagulls, we moved inside!
The sandwiches we chose were very plain on arrival & we needed to ask for some mayo to add some flavour to the chicken.
The scones were large & nice.
There are just 3 cakes given per person, which wasn't much compared to other places, but they were a fair size. More would have been nice for the price.
Finally, all the cups & plates were quite worn & scratched from constant use & cleaning.
They should be replaced to give a more quality feel to the afternoon tea experience.
Not the best afternoon tea I've had, but not the worst either!
It wouldn't take much to improve, but some TLC is needed at every stage.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This lovely hotel retains its old style charm until you reach your bright modern room. Really comfy bed, quality products in the bathroom. Excellent selection of tea, coffee and hot chocolate on the compliment tray. There is a heated pool in the gardens, which I will definitely use on my next visit.
Plenty of free parking in the hotel car park or on the street. Free wifi.
At breakfast there is an extensive choice from the buffet of cereals, fruit, pastries etc. And then a menu of cooked choices which the waiters will serve along with tea/coffee and toast.
The hotel is set away from the hustle and bustle but easy walking distance downhill into Eastbourne. The ascent might be difficult for less able bodied people. But it can't cost much to get a taxi back up.
There is a cocktail bar which doesn't serve cocktails. This was a particular disappointment.
Otherwise, a perfect one night stay and we look forward to our next visit.
Plenty of free parking in the hotel car park or on the street. Free wifi.
At breakfast there is an extensive choice from the buffet of cereals, fruit, pastries etc. And then a menu of cooked choices which the waiters will serve along with tea/coffee and toast.
The hotel is set away from the hustle and bustle but easy walking distance downhill into Eastbourne. The ascent might be difficult for less able bodied people. But it can't cost much to get a taxi back up.
There is a cocktail bar which doesn't serve cocktails. This was a particular disappointment.
Otherwise, a perfect one night stay and we look forward to our next visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Part of Eastbourne's history, the Hydro offers old world charm in a comfortable environment. Nice staff who are friendly and knowledgeable.
A well stocked bar and good, though mainly traditional British, food. A bar, lounge, conservatory, restaurant and room served food options.
Lots of rooms with sea views.
A nice croquet lawn and outdoor pool.
Plenty of free parking.
A well stocked bar and good, though mainly traditional British, food. A bar, lounge, conservatory, restaurant and room served food options.
Lots of rooms with sea views.
A nice croquet lawn and outdoor pool.
Plenty of free parking.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
A Beautiful setting and lovely, high ceilinged, spacious and comfortable seating areas and bedrooms.
Not for those who prefer streamlined, modern decor, this is the perfect Hotel for those who prefer the slightly old fashioned concept of elegance and good service.
We liked this Hotel and intend to return.
Breakfast, served in the chandeliered dining room, was the highlight, both for service and content.
The Light Snack evening Menu could perhaps be extended.
Our sea facing room was a pleasure to stay in, with excellent bed.
I did not know trouser presses still existed !!
Not for those who prefer streamlined, modern decor, this is the perfect Hotel for those who prefer the slightly old fashioned concept of elegance and good service.
We liked this Hotel and intend to return.
Breakfast, served in the chandeliered dining room, was the highlight, both for service and content.
The Light Snack evening Menu could perhaps be extended.
Our sea facing room was a pleasure to stay in, with excellent bed.
I did not know trouser presses still existed !!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Hydro Hotel is reasonable value for Afternoon Tea which comprises sandwiches and Sussex Cream Scones as well as teas or coffees.
Whilst it is 10 minutes drive from the Town Centre of Eastbourne; it has a friendly staff and better than average service for a Seaside Hotel.
It is a bit posh and has always catered for Weddings, parties and business dinners over the years.
So it is a versatile establishment which cares about its customers and poresentation.
It also provides a consistent attention
To detail if you are a pensioner or student or even a family visiting this lovely Hotel.
It is a great place for afternoon tea or Lunch
Whilst it is 10 minutes drive from the Town Centre of Eastbourne; it has a friendly staff and better than average service for a Seaside Hotel.
It is a bit posh and has always catered for Weddings, parties and business dinners over the years.
So it is a versatile establishment which cares about its customers and poresentation.
It also provides a consistent attention
To detail if you are a pensioner or student or even a family visiting this lovely Hotel.
It is a great place for afternoon tea or Lunch
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
2nd visit so maybe more tolerant,forgiving - its hard to know.
I almost want to dislike this hotel because it is just so old fashioned that you expect the dinner menu to start with a choice of a glass of orange juice or half a grapefruit !
The staff are fantastic throughout the hotel - amazingly so. The location is perfect .Very nice towels & the granddaughter loved the pool.
So where does it fall down? Tinned mushrooms at breakfast,cheap brown sauce,crappy little wine glasses,unimaginative menu - a lack of attention to the small details that make a difference.
I almost want to dislike this hotel because it is just so old fashioned that you expect the dinner menu to start with a choice of a glass of orange juice or half a grapefruit !
The staff are fantastic throughout the hotel - amazingly so. The location is perfect .Very nice towels & the granddaughter loved the pool.
So where does it fall down? Tinned mushrooms at breakfast,cheap brown sauce,crappy little wine glasses,unimaginative menu - a lack of attention to the small details that make a difference.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited here on Saturday for lunch and had three courses for £18.50.
All courses were superb and presented well
We were served by George who was very friendly and went out of his way to find a table for coffee with a sea view. He was a charming helpful waiter.
The hotel had a warm friendly feel to it and appeared very popular
All courses were superb and presented well
We were served by George who was very friendly and went out of his way to find a table for coffee with a sea view. He was a charming helpful waiter.
The hotel had a warm friendly feel to it and appeared very popular
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The Hydro Hotel is easy to find, the free Hotel car park had plenty of space, we arrived early so booked in at reception who said the room would be ready for 2.30 so time for a lovely walk along the front to the downs and back to the Hotel via Meads Village, what a wonderful part of Eastbourne this is.
Our sea view room on the second floor was ready on time and what a lovely room it was, spotlessly clean, high quality linen and towels, comfortable beds, and for an old building the floor boards were covered with thick carpet keeping noise to a minimum. The design of the wallpaper is in keeping with the late Victorian, Edwardian period when this Hotel was built.
The service in the resturaunts are excellent, the dinner menu on the one night we ate in had a good choice, the presentation and quality was very good.
Our breakfast was very good plenty of choice, smoked haddock with poached egg lovely, kippers (not cook in the bag) were very tasty, and full English just what one would expect. All with excellent service especially Elizabeth with her warming smile.
The public areas have comfortable armchairs and settees with ample space, reflecting the charming character of this Hotel.
Outside the garden is well looked after, the lawns are particularly good, shrubs and hedging well pruned and the swimming pool area is a lovely place to sit and read, just one walk way was blocked with some old pruning which would I'm sure be a nice walk.
The walks available from the Hydro are fantastic, we managed the first two miles of the South Downs Way to the WW2 Bomber Command Memorial over looking Beach Head Lighthouse, well worth the effort.
It's a 15 minute walk to the theatres, Devonshire park, and town centre so just a perfect location. We look forward to returning next year. Thank you Mr. Owen and the Hydro Team for a wonderful week end. xxx
Our sea view room on the second floor was ready on time and what a lovely room it was, spotlessly clean, high quality linen and towels, comfortable beds, and for an old building the floor boards were covered with thick carpet keeping noise to a minimum. The design of the wallpaper is in keeping with the late Victorian, Edwardian period when this Hotel was built.
The service in the resturaunts are excellent, the dinner menu on the one night we ate in had a good choice, the presentation and quality was very good.
Our breakfast was very good plenty of choice, smoked haddock with poached egg lovely, kippers (not cook in the bag) were very tasty, and full English just what one would expect. All with excellent service especially Elizabeth with her warming smile.
The public areas have comfortable armchairs and settees with ample space, reflecting the charming character of this Hotel.
Outside the garden is well looked after, the lawns are particularly good, shrubs and hedging well pruned and the swimming pool area is a lovely place to sit and read, just one walk way was blocked with some old pruning which would I'm sure be a nice walk.
The walks available from the Hydro are fantastic, we managed the first two miles of the South Downs Way to the WW2 Bomber Command Memorial over looking Beach Head Lighthouse, well worth the effort.
It's a 15 minute walk to the theatres, Devonshire park, and town centre so just a perfect location. We look forward to returning next year. Thank you Mr. Owen and the Hydro Team for a wonderful week end. xxx
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This hotel is more than a hotel. Excellent value for money. The staff went out their way to make our stay as comfortable as possible and they all have a wonderful team ethos. The rooms are large and spacious and the cleanliness of the room was second to none. The food was high quality whichever area you ate in. Try the afternoon teas...homemade eclairs to die for...Hairdressers and beauty salon amazing...brilliant cut and style, best pedicure I have ever had..great pool... A lot of older people frequent the hotel but my 7 year old son was made to feel welcome and there were families there with other young children that he made friends with. On our last day my son became poorly a huge thank you to the General Manager and his staff all of them asked how he was, fans were brought and nothing was too much trouble. The only negative comment i have is that the rooms are a bit too warm, but staff are happy to provide fans...thanks for a great stay xx.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Lovely old style hotel, a little faded but that just adds to it's charm - stylish but relaxed.
A nice change from modern minimalist places and much cosier, lovely atmosphere.
Staff were lovely, we visited during Airbourne so it was very busy, but staff were attentive, patient, helpful and good humoured.
A nice terrace on first floor, well placed to enjoy the view.
Small outdoor pool on pleasant terrace, hidden from view - all quite charming
Thoughtful touches like a jigsaw left out to complete, a little mini golf and croquet.
Lovely items for sale in display cabinets at reasonable prices.
Our room was small but comfortable and adequate - a little stuffy but the hotel h
recommended closing windows due to a pigeon problem! We had to open them as it was very hot, but had no problems
A nice change from modern minimalist places and much cosier, lovely atmosphere.
Staff were lovely, we visited during Airbourne so it was very busy, but staff were attentive, patient, helpful and good humoured.
A nice terrace on first floor, well placed to enjoy the view.
Small outdoor pool on pleasant terrace, hidden from view - all quite charming
Thoughtful touches like a jigsaw left out to complete, a little mini golf and croquet.
Lovely items for sale in display cabinets at reasonable prices.
Our room was small but comfortable and adequate - a little stuffy but the hotel h
recommended closing windows due to a pigeon problem! We had to open them as it was very hot, but had no problems
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We sated here as a treat at the end of our South Downs Way walk and were not disappointed. we had a lovely corner room that was very spacious with comfy bed. A monitor issue with the hair dryer was sorted immediately. Breakfast was delicious and such a wide variety, the French fruit ( not tinned) and home made jam and bread were lovely touches. the bounds are also beautify and overlook the beach below.
Not being local we were unaware of the Airboune event that was taking place during our stay ( an unexpected bonus) however this proved very difficult in trying to arrange a taxi to make our train home after our 100 mile walk. It looked like we would miss the train but the receptionist and her colleague went above and beyond giving us a lift as she came off shift to ensure we made the train on time . I cannot thank them both enough for the level of service and care they showed. We loved our walking adventure and our fabulous stay at The Hydro- top marks for customer service.
Not being local we were unaware of the Airboune event that was taking place during our stay ( an unexpected bonus) however this proved very difficult in trying to arrange a taxi to make our train home after our 100 mile walk. It looked like we would miss the train but the receptionist and her colleague went above and beyond giving us a lift as she came off shift to ensure we made the train on time . I cannot thank them both enough for the level of service and care they showed. We loved our walking adventure and our fabulous stay at The Hydro- top marks for customer service.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Our room was on the 2nd floor and had nice view over the terrace , grounds and to the sea , the room was sparkling clean and the towels white and fluffy ,we liked the fact there was a teapot as well as tea bags .
The beakfast was everything you could ask for with a buffet counter and a nicely cooked and served full english .
The hotel was very good for Airbourne as it is close enough to walk to everywhere but away from the crowds .
I love the entrance to the hotel , it has an olde worlde charm and very relaxing ,
The beakfast was everything you could ask for with a buffet counter and a nicely cooked and served full english .
The hotel was very good for Airbourne as it is close enough to walk to everywhere but away from the crowds .
I love the entrance to the hotel , it has an olde worlde charm and very relaxing ,
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I fell in love with the Hydro Hotel the first time I came here. That was in 1991 and I've been staying here every summer since then and also for short breaks at other times in most of the intervening years.
I endorse the comments made in recent reviews. The bedrooms are exceptionally clean and comfortable - the gold standard by which I judge other hotel rooms (there's only one other place I know of with similarly good housekeeping). The staff are always polite and helpful, service attentive and the parking is easy.
When it comes to dining breakfast is fine and there are various options for the rest of the day. Personally I prefer not to have a large meal in the evening so opt for bed and breakfast. There is plenty to choose from on the lounge and conservatory menus for the rest of the day. On the occasions when I have dined in the Crystal Restaurant in the evening there have been some well presented dishes. The desserts are particularly worthy of a mention. My only negative comments are that vegetarian main courses very rarely contain protein - it would be much appreciated if dishes containing beans, pulses, nuts etc. could be included and not consist of just cheese, or vegetables in a sauce. Also, it seems to be policy that bed and breakfast guests are not guaranteed the same table each morning. For someone staying a week and being a long standing guest I should think this could easily be done.
The location of the hotel couldn't be better. On a sunny summer afternoon having a game of croquet (I am one of the croquet club members who come here every August for our little tournament) and then being served tea in the garden is pure heaven. Long may it continue. The hotel may appear a bit old fashioned compared with brash modern styles but that is what we like - a haven of peace and tranquillity with splendid service all in a glorious setting.
I endorse the comments made in recent reviews. The bedrooms are exceptionally clean and comfortable - the gold standard by which I judge other hotel rooms (there's only one other place I know of with similarly good housekeeping). The staff are always polite and helpful, service attentive and the parking is easy.
When it comes to dining breakfast is fine and there are various options for the rest of the day. Personally I prefer not to have a large meal in the evening so opt for bed and breakfast. There is plenty to choose from on the lounge and conservatory menus for the rest of the day. On the occasions when I have dined in the Crystal Restaurant in the evening there have been some well presented dishes. The desserts are particularly worthy of a mention. My only negative comments are that vegetarian main courses very rarely contain protein - it would be much appreciated if dishes containing beans, pulses, nuts etc. could be included and not consist of just cheese, or vegetables in a sauce. Also, it seems to be policy that bed and breakfast guests are not guaranteed the same table each morning. For someone staying a week and being a long standing guest I should think this could easily be done.
The location of the hotel couldn't be better. On a sunny summer afternoon having a game of croquet (I am one of the croquet club members who come here every August for our little tournament) and then being served tea in the garden is pure heaven. Long may it continue. The hotel may appear a bit old fashioned compared with brash modern styles but that is what we like - a haven of peace and tranquillity with splendid service all in a glorious setting.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
