The Royal Hotel

Afternoon tea was lovely. Lovely hotel and staff were polite and service was really good. The afternoon tea was nice although the sandwiches could do with a little more filling in as it is expensive. Cakes and warm scones with jam and cream were delicious. We ordered lattes and they were lovely. Hotel itself is nice, grounds are beautiful. The only downside was the parking was difficult for disabled family member and there were no spaces left so had to park a little walk away.

Having got your attention, if you are one of those travellers that like to look for defects and failings in a hotel, then you will be disappointed at the Royal! What makes this place so good is the staff. Everyone I encountered was welcoming, knowledgeable and friendly. More specifically, the landscapes were a credit to the gardener. It is an old building but little sign of maintenance problems. Everything worked, and at least our room and the public areas were smartly painted. Well done to the chambermaids, (if you call them that now), as our room was spotless. Reception staff welcomed everyone with a ready smile and offered advice and assistance. Special mention for the restaurant. Every dish from breakfast to dinner was really excellent. No wonder the chef has so many accolades, and, no doubt, a great kitchen support team. The serving staff were not only efficient but knowledgeable, especially Molly who was able to reel off the details of every course, just like those waitresses in high class American restaurants. She and Janice were watchful that one of our party, who was dairy allergic, was properly protected and catered for and ensured their colleagues knew this. Good to see the manageress (Sadir?) mucking in where required as well as chatting with guests to ensure their enjoyment and comfort. They all asked, without any sign of boredom, how we had enjoyed our day. I don't normally write such glittering reviews, few hotels deserve them and I must admit, by the end of our short stay, I was looking for shortcomings as I thought The Royal couldn't be that good, but it was! Just hope the new owner will allow and support his staff so that the tradition can continue. And no, I have no connection to the hotel, just enjoyed the stay and this review is a public thank you to them.

A very comfortable hotel with spacious bedrooms and excellent cuisine and service. Parking spaces can be a little tricky at busy times.

The Royal Hotel is a real gem, proper old fashioned class and style and yet at very reasonable price. The staff are delightful and friendly and the location was perfect. I had a tremendous stay and this place is now my new favourite hotel! I hope to return someday...

Second time and even better Lovely room /20 with complete comfort Excellent quality and cleanliness Staff helpful friendly and professional The food was well prepared with interesting choices We love the hotel - it’s special but not fussy and hope to be back soon

The Royal is a gem of a hotel which exudes lots of history and old fashioned charm. Views of the sea and gardens from our room were delightful, food was delicious throughout our stay and our room was clean and comfortable, with all bathroom and tea and coffee supplies replenished daily. However, what makes the hotel so very special is that every one of the staff delivers the highest level of service at all times. You feel that they personally care about making your stay the very best it can be and take a pride in doing whatever they can to help deliver this. We loved our stay and would recommend unreservedly.