The Grand Hotel Eastbourne
Latest Reviews
i was here last year for my anniversary and loved everything about it very romantic the only problem was that my boyfriend (at the time) didn't have a tie but the restaurant staff borrowed him one. very very kind
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I booked this for my wife and I to get away from the student house my home has become since our kids left university. What a weekend ! The steam coming off the outdoor heated pool at night and during the rain were something that I'll remember forever. The service in the Garden Restaurant and generally was superb. The food was great as well. The Health Club and gym ,sauna, steam room, indoor pool were all out of the top drawer. We stayed at the time of the fireworks display which was really enjoyable with everyone behaving themselves impeccably. You can also go for a little jog to Beachy Head if that's what you fancy and back for a full English. What a stay !
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We booked three rooms for a weekend away to celebrate my mother's special birthday. The room rate with dinner was quite pricey compared to hotels of a similar rating in other resorts that we had considered but we were happy to splurge for this special treat. The quality of the telephone reservations service was excellent. The sales person carefully noted our requirements and reflected these in the room bookings. Given the quality of the reservations process, the room rate and prestigious location of the hotel we had high expectations. We left feeling rather disappointed.
The hotel was almost fully occupied by a large conference. This led to a corporate rather than family/holiday atmosphere. We were the only table in the huge dining room on our first evening as the conference guests were eating on the balcony outside. The waitresses were very attentive and went out of their way to give impeccable service however the evening was disappointing as there was no atmosphere. Had we known that the hotel was going to be mostly occupied by a conference we may have chosen an alternative date.
The lock to my elderly mother's bedroom door broke at 10pm and after 30 minutes of the staff trying to fix the lock we were given the option of moving to an inferior room or staying in the room with no working key - hence my mother unable to leave and renter the room without contacting reception until the lock was fixed the following morning.
The service and quality of food at dinner was very good. However the range of food on offer at breakfast was disappointing compared to many other hotels of similar star rating we have stayed in.
Overall this stay was not the special treat we had hoped for.
The hotel was almost fully occupied by a large conference. This led to a corporate rather than family/holiday atmosphere. We were the only table in the huge dining room on our first evening as the conference guests were eating on the balcony outside. The waitresses were very attentive and went out of their way to give impeccable service however the evening was disappointing as there was no atmosphere. Had we known that the hotel was going to be mostly occupied by a conference we may have chosen an alternative date.
The lock to my elderly mother's bedroom door broke at 10pm and after 30 minutes of the staff trying to fix the lock we were given the option of moving to an inferior room or staying in the room with no working key - hence my mother unable to leave and renter the room without contacting reception until the lock was fixed the following morning.
The service and quality of food at dinner was very good. However the range of food on offer at breakfast was disappointing compared to many other hotels of similar star rating we have stayed in.
Overall this stay was not the special treat we had hoped for.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This hotel is the GRANDmother of hotels, old, classy,distinguished and a little tired in places.
Stunning location and very welcoming for such a large hotel. I stayed on business so didn't really get the opportunity to experience all this magnificent hotel had to offer. My room was spacious and comfortable with the most amazing bed and pillows. A real no no for me was carpet in the bathroom , that said everywhere was spotless. Nice touches like Molton Brown toiletries, lovely filter coffee and bottled water. The turn down service at 9 with the offer of additional tea,coffee or milk made it a special stay. My only grumble was the limited pricey room service menu, that said my food was delivered in a timely manner, hot and with a really friendly room service waiter. I am definitely staying here again when in Eastbourne and recommend 100%, you will not be disappointed .
Stunning location and very welcoming for such a large hotel. I stayed on business so didn't really get the opportunity to experience all this magnificent hotel had to offer. My room was spacious and comfortable with the most amazing bed and pillows. A real no no for me was carpet in the bathroom , that said everywhere was spotless. Nice touches like Molton Brown toiletries, lovely filter coffee and bottled water. The turn down service at 9 with the offer of additional tea,coffee or milk made it a special stay. My only grumble was the limited pricey room service menu, that said my food was delivered in a timely manner, hot and with a really friendly room service waiter. I am definitely staying here again when in Eastbourne and recommend 100%, you will not be disappointed .
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wonderful dining experience with excellent food and wine, as a retired engineer I consider food my second greatest love and only a handful of restaurants have ever lived upto their reputation, we will return again and again, it's worth every penny
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
What a beautiful building. I felt a bit Downton Abbey staying here! Many people have commented on the tired décor and yes, it is not a modern trendy hotel but I'm more concerned about service and comfort than the curtains and bed cover. Chintz might have gone out a while ago but it still suits the Grand.
We had a standard bedroom on side of building. It was large, comfortable with good size wardrobe and plenty of drawers. The bathroom was again a good size, the water was always lovely and hot and had nice Moulton Brown toiletries which were replenished every day. The bed was comfortable with a mattress topper and sheets and towels changed regularly.
I loved the turn down service at night and appreciated that our water and tea supplies were topped up so that we could have another drink when coming up from dinner.
Without fail we found the staff professional, friendly and helpful. Barbara in the dining room was great at Breakfast times, very helpful, as were Louise and Mollie, two young girls who served us. The concierge team were great - Gary, David and John were all extremely helpful in helping with parking, giving directions, weather forecast and passing the time of day.
The swimming pool, Jacuzzi and steam room were all very pleasant and well maintained.
When I read some of the reviews of people moaning about the hotel, I wonder if they stayed in the same place as me! I know you can't please all of the people all of the time but I found little to complain about here. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and would return again happily.
We had a standard bedroom on side of building. It was large, comfortable with good size wardrobe and plenty of drawers. The bathroom was again a good size, the water was always lovely and hot and had nice Moulton Brown toiletries which were replenished every day. The bed was comfortable with a mattress topper and sheets and towels changed regularly.
I loved the turn down service at night and appreciated that our water and tea supplies were topped up so that we could have another drink when coming up from dinner.
Without fail we found the staff professional, friendly and helpful. Barbara in the dining room was great at Breakfast times, very helpful, as were Louise and Mollie, two young girls who served us. The concierge team were great - Gary, David and John were all extremely helpful in helping with parking, giving directions, weather forecast and passing the time of day.
The swimming pool, Jacuzzi and steam room were all very pleasant and well maintained.
When I read some of the reviews of people moaning about the hotel, I wonder if they stayed in the same place as me! I know you can't please all of the people all of the time but I found little to complain about here. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and would return again happily.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My sister and I had a most enjoyable stay for four days at this hotel in October. Can only say that all the the staff are very friendly, helpful and efficient. Nothing is too much trouble.
A very comfortable hotel with a pleasant ambiance.
Yes, it is perhaps a little expensive but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.
Looking forward to our next visit.
A very comfortable hotel with a pleasant ambiance.
Yes, it is perhaps a little expensive but as the saying goes, you get what you pay for.
Looking forward to our next visit.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We decided to have a romantic getaway for our anniversary and this did not disappoint! From the moment we pulled up and were greeted by the doormen and checked in at reception everyone was polite and helpful and made us feel very welcome. We stayed for three nights in a sea view room. The room was lovely, yes maybe a little bit dated, but it was clean and large, not like some rooms in other hotels where you can hardly move. We ate in both restaurants and the food was lovely. When I said I could not eat one of the free starters they give you because I have an allergy to a product in it, they immediately whisked it away and gave me something else. The service in the restaurants and the lounge cannot be faulted. There was always someone to take your order. On one occasion we shared a sandwich, but they still brought us two little cups of soup instead of one, that shows how thoughtful they are. Yes its not cheap, but I think the service alone makes up for this. When we walked into town one morning, they even gave us one of the hotel's large umbrellas to use in case it rained! I would definitely recommend this hotel and cannot wait for another reason to return!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Should you have an Elite card then the either the garden restaurant or the Mirabelle is worth a visit but I would recommend the Mirabelle if you can get in as the Garden restaurant now charge extra for vegetables.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was everything you would want from a 5* hotel ..and more! Without doubt, one of the best, if not the best, hotel I've ever stayed at. Comfort, courtesy, immaculately turned out & engaging staff who go the extra mile, oodles of lounge areas to suit your mood, roomy bar and all the amenities you could want (pool, sauna, steam room, gym) ..difficult to know where they could improve. Other reviewers have made mention that the exterior & interior of the building is a tad dated but surely that is part of its attraction and charm! If you want modern go to a Mercure or a Marriott ..I'd wager that the service at either would not be a patch on what you get here [eg. Concierge waiting to welcome you, park your car and transport your luggage]. Minimum room is a deluxe which is very spacious and contains everything you want, ample wardrobe capacity and generous bathroom; anything pricier would be quite unnecessary in my view. Breakfasts excellent whether self-serve or cooked to order (did not sample dinner but menu looked enticing). Michelin* alternative on site (Mirabelle) if you really want to push the boat out. We found the hotel on the internet and got a 3 nts for 2 deal. Yes, there are more modest establishments around but given the sheer all round quality and service you would be hard pressed to find better value. Only one minor observation - we found the indoor pool temperature a tad warm and the jacuzzi like stepping into the bath ..ideal if you are cold blooded! :-) Hotels of this ilk form part of our heritage - patronise and preserve!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Excellent one night stay, Reception very good and fast, we only had a standard room which was massive with excellent bathroom and facilities, bed was probably the most comfortable we had slept in. the indoor pool was impressive as was the rest of the Hotel, We used the bar which had no Draught beers but a good selection of bottled beer was available, the choice of spirits were excellent even thou expensive but no more than expected in a 5* hotel, again the service in the bar was excellent. all in all i will definitely use again. Thanks for one of the most comfortable stays we have had.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
It is always a pleasure to stay here. Appreciated even more after a recent visit to a, so-called, 4 star hotel (The R---- ------K) in Bournemouth. If you appreciate really comfortable accommodation, clearly well and properly trained staff in all positions; courtesy and kindness, then nothing more needs to be said.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was a special Birthday treat. The staff were very attentive and not at all put out by us arriving half an hour early. They promptly brought a pot of tea in a silver teapot and brought us a fresh pot twice!!. The china was delicate and pretty design.
The Eton mess was refreshing and delicous. We coildn't eat all the cakes and were offered a box to take some home.
At the Grand you always feel special and it's like going back in time. The cloakrooms are very luxurious, as you'd expect from a 5 star hotel. It is a wonderful old fashioned hotel, dress code for the main restaurant. There are several comfortable lounges at the hotel and a small health suite with indoor and outdoor pools.
The Eton mess was refreshing and delicous. We coildn't eat all the cakes and were offered a box to take some home.
At the Grand you always feel special and it's like going back in time. The cloakrooms are very luxurious, as you'd expect from a 5 star hotel. It is a wonderful old fashioned hotel, dress code for the main restaurant. There are several comfortable lounges at the hotel and a small health suite with indoor and outdoor pools.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed last week for 3 nights - fortunately the sun shone which lifted the feeling of the main areas somewhat. We had an executive seaview room on the 4th floor, furthest point from main areas but had a great dual aspect view of the sea but such a sad feel with very old and tired furniture. The smallest double bed which for such a room a kingsize would be more appropriate. The bathroom so small but clean as was the room. Whilst excepting that maintenance has to be done the smell of paint for all three days in the area outside our room was not pleasant. Not value for money even with third night free so cost spread over 3 nights. The staff are really the only saving grace to the Grand and couldn't have been more helpful or pleasant.
Breakfast was adequate and whilst I only dined once evening the food was good but expensive.I am sure the older clients love the feel but it really does need updating if it is to attract us young
OAP to stay - something I would not be considering again.
Breakfast was adequate and whilst I only dined once evening the food was good but expensive.I am sure the older clients love the feel but it really does need updating if it is to attract us young
OAP to stay - something I would not be considering again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
we saw their advert in a monthly magazine and decided to use a discount offer. we only saw the lower and ground floors and these were nicely decorated. we had window table facing the sea in the restaurant. the fish dishes were really good as were the starters and sweets. overall the cuisine was a very good.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just had a very enjoyable weekend here. It is a beautiful,elegant hotel and whilst some of its facilities may not be up to modern standards this is more than compensated for by extremely helpful and professional staff as well as beautiful public rooms.
The location on the seafront is well set back from the road and consequently there is very little traffic noise.
We ate in the Garden Restaurant and the food was beautifully presented with a good menu choice and excellent service.
Our bedroom was comfortable and spacious with a sea view and well stocked tea and coffee and bathroom goodies.
If you are looking for comfortable, elegant,old world charm with great attention to service, I would highly recommend this hotel.
The location on the seafront is well set back from the road and consequently there is very little traffic noise.
We ate in the Garden Restaurant and the food was beautifully presented with a good menu choice and excellent service.
Our bedroom was comfortable and spacious with a sea view and well stocked tea and coffee and bathroom goodies.
If you are looking for comfortable, elegant,old world charm with great attention to service, I would highly recommend this hotel.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We're in our 60s and felt positively youthful here. It's a shame the demographics are as old as the hotel. Its faded elegance and evident need for upgrading lend it charm and our sympathy. Look past the carpet and wallpaper and you see a very clean, very well managed establishment -- with staff who maintain a tradition of service and care. Because this was a special trip (my wife is an Agatha Christie cultist...) we ate a very special dinner in the Garden Room, rather than the Mirabel Room. Slight difference in entrees and price; our decision based on entrees. Perfection. From the abundance of servers who never let a wine glass go empty or an empty plate sit atop the table, to the taste and presentation of the meal. Breakfast included with room, so we had buffet including eggs, fruit, cereals, juices, pastry; all good. Walked to Beachy Head, also explored some of the city. Will return with friends, family to walk Beachy Head again and see more of Eastbourne. Breathtaking views from the cliffs. Delightful neighborhoods in an obviously affluent community. (Oh, you must have a pint, or two, of Harvey's Sussex Best Bitter at a local pub, either the Pilot Inn or the Buccaneer )
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We have visited The Grand for a number of years and am pleased to say that the standards are always very high . From the initial greeting by the concierge to the departure all the staff are trained to satisfy the guests requirement. The uniforms that the staff wear are immaculate and show the standards expected. The rooms may be a little tired in places with the odd wobbly table but this maintains the period character , do not let this put you off visiting . The afternoon tea should not be missed as it is one of the best in the country .The evening meals are served in 2 lovely restaurants but the food could only be considered as good and certainly does not justify the price charged . The breakfast offers a full range of options and should satisfy everyone's requirements .
It is well worth checking your final bill as twice we have been overcharged .This was rectified on both occasion with sincere apologies. There seem to be so many rates on offer that the staff get confused .
Despite the odd little blip we will return again to experience pleasant first class service where the customer is always treated as a special guest.
It is well worth checking your final bill as twice we have been overcharged .This was rectified on both occasion with sincere apologies. There seem to be so many rates on offer that the staff get confused .
Despite the odd little blip we will return again to experience pleasant first class service where the customer is always treated as a special guest.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just returned from a stay here which we really enjoyed. We had a room with a sea view which was delightful. Service was very welcoming from the very excellent doorman to the helpful receptionist. The barman was excellent with his lively cocktails and the evening meal was delicious. We had a very charming young man from Slovakia do a crepes suzette for us at the table. All round a nice experience.
The only slight gripe was a lack of attention at breakfast where the service was somewhat slow.
The only slight gripe was a lack of attention at breakfast where the service was somewhat slow.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Visited this hotel the weekend and it definitely deserves the name as it is very grand indeed. From the moment we arrived to when we left the staff was excellent. So friendly and helpful nothing was to much for them. I booked this as an overnight romantic break for me and my boyfriend. He loves the sea so booking a sea view suite was a must even though costly. Was it worth it? Well we had a fabulous time so I'd say yes in some ways it was but I guess I'd much rather spent that money on a longer break somewhere. The food and drinks in the hotel was 5* the spa and range of treatments was excellent I would say the pool could do with being bigger though as it was very busy on Saturday. A seperate area for children to swim in would be nice too as wasn't as relaxing as some spa's I've been too. The weather was outstanding so my partner gave the outside pool a try on the Sunday and loved it. The location image excellent a stones throw away from the beach. My only real complaints are the rooms was very stuffy/hot and could definatly do with having a fan in them at least. We was lucky the windows could be left open as well as the balcony door all night but seeing there was no breeze about neither was very helpful really. Getting ready for a night out was like getting ready in a dark sauna! The rooms need much better lighting at least in the bedroom near the dressing table. Not great at all for doing your hair and make up before a night out! The hotel was very mixed age which was nice. Overall we had a great night away and Id definitely recommend a stay just be willing a spend that bit more! Afterall not many nights cost £400 before any food or drinks etc...
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Just spent the night at the Grand Hotel in Eastbourne. Would highly recommend this place to stay. The staff are excellent. From the moment we arrived till the moment we left the staff could not do enough for you. The surroundings were beautiful from the restaurants to the chilling out rooms. A spa, swimming pool and even a snooker room to take your fancy. Our standard room was very clean and tidy but the bed, a double was only standard also so we had a sleepless night. That apart go there and enjoy a great stay. Not cheap, but an experience.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed for three nights: service was excellent as the staff were friendly and helpful and the public areas were very impressive. However, compared to other five star hotels the rooms we had on the third floor were a bit tired looking and in need of an update. Had an evening meal at the hotel and was very disappointed with the quality of the food. Did not go back for a second try, though the breakfasts were good. The heated outdoor swimming pool (29c) was excellent, the gym was well equipped but small. The indoor pool was too hot and had too much chlorine. Hotel very close to town and seafront. Evenings had live entertainment in the bar areas which was really appreciated. Would visit again but ask for different rooms.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Thank you for a lovely first holiday with our 8 month son, the location was great just a stone throw from the beach & town.
Our room was beautiful & our son loved the swimming pools especially the surprisingly warm out door heated pool.
Breakfast was delicious & the staff very friendly & helpful I look forward to coming again next month.
Kindest Regards
The Russell family
Our room was beautiful & our son loved the swimming pools especially the surprisingly warm out door heated pool.
Breakfast was delicious & the staff very friendly & helpful I look forward to coming again next month.
Kindest Regards
The Russell family
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
we love this hotel. It is only an hour away from us, but we love it just to get away for a night. This time we decided last minute to phone them to see if they had a room free. We booked a deluxe side Seaview this time. It was a lovely bright room overlooking the front of the hotel. We had lunch in the Mirabelle first. This we usually do as like to just relax in the lounge area in the evening. We usually enjoy cocktails at that time with a sandwich to share. At 9.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays the band starts to play, carpet is rolled back to reveal a dance floor. We like to watch the few couples who get up and dance. Not alot though these days... A dying art!!! The service you get here is second to none. Everyone has a smile, nothing is too much trouble. It is such a relaxing hotel and with the prom just over the road for a nice walk it is the perfect place to recharge those batteries. One thing though. There is free wifi to an extent but only to do the basic things.... Any photos to view etc in e.mail and you need to pay for Fast Wifi. I think these days really in a five star hotel free fast wifi should be included.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Went to the Grand Hotel spa, extremely nice staff but the spa was very tired looking I was so disappointed when shown to the indoor pool area only about 6 sun loungers and 6 chairs to "relax" in no back ground music no ambiance, the ceiling tiles were dirty and one in the middle where we were sitting had a large piece missing with staining all round it. The treatment rooms were better not very subdued lighting and piano music playing the therapist was fantastic and the experience was lovely and relaxing. I was shown back to the pool area whilst waiting for my daughter to finish her treatments. I asked for a latte and had to wait over 30 mins to get my drink!!. Declined to use the pool used the Jacuzzi which was invigorating but would warn any seniors its pretty fierce so hips could be broken!!! We also had afternoon tea and were seated in the Grand Hall lots of people trotting past as we tried to have our afternoon tea, It was lovely but I would not pay to take someone for afternoon tea as I thought it was very expensive (this was a gift day from daughter) Over all the treatments were lovely didn't think much of the hotel for me
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
