Walpole Bay Hotel

Oh my god this place is a real hidden gem- close enough to Margate to stroll along the seafront to all the pubs, shops & galleries, but far enough from the centre to be a tranquil haven from the modern world. The museum is incredible - there are items of social history everywhere. We particularly loved the typewriters & carpet cleaners, tucked away in what were once bathrooms & sculleries. It's truly magical, but without any airs & graces. On arrival, we were upgraded to a four-poster suite with balcony, as it was our 23rd wedding anniversary - a lovely surprise! It was very comfortable, with period furniture in keeping with the surroundings. We had a cream tea in the elegant dining room, where staff were friendly & attentive, but not intrusive. The freshly baked scones were delicious!! Breakfast this morning was a buffet affair and again, very tasty. The informal atmosphere was perfectly balanced - friendly but not too casual - and enhanced by Jane, the owner, chatting with each group of guests in turn about their stay and the hotel. Finally, a word about the Napery - a collection of over 300 linen napkins from the hotel, which various guests have decorated with original designs over the years. These have been framed and now adorn the walls - everything from children's doodles to illustrators' artwork. They form a unique gallery depicting special memories of stays at the hotel. The whole place is an absolute joy!

We took my Mum today for afternoon tea as it was her birthday. The service was awful. We waited a long time for our food and drinks to arrive. They carried it all out on two trays and just dumped the trays on the table and walked away. We weren’t given cutlery for the scones and cakes so I had to go and ask the ladies on reception as there was not one waiter/waitress in sight. We were there for 3 hours and not once did anyone come to our table and ask if everything was OK or if we needed anything. The young girl behind the bar was very rude when I asked if there were any tonics in the fridge as my bottle was warm. Our table was not cleared the whole time we were there and we were provided with tin foil instead of boxes to take the leftover cakes and scones home. The food was mediocre for the price. However, the ladies on reception were very pleasant and helpful, despite their clear frustrations with the restaurant staff. I would not return there and I certainly would not recommend it.

An incredible place - not to be missed! From arrival at the beautiful 'garden' fronted entrance, to the amazing lobby and then to be met by such wonderful staff ... its amazing! You are encouraged to wonder around the Hotel/Museum and explore and absorb all the exhibits and corridors - and visit (and play) in the amazing Pink snooker room. Breakfast was great - but the Cream Tea was absolutely fantastic ... A Must visit place!