We decided to enjoy the delights of the Mirabelle Restaurant at the Grand Hotel on New Year's Eve for a lunch treat this year, with a family couple, and we were not disappointed. From the moment we arrived, with the car whisked away, we were so cared for, even to the extent of alternative menu suggestions for our strict vegetarian friends. The staff were delightful and very professional without being too intrusive and just enough wit and banter to enhance the occasion. The three course lunch was perfectly adequate, preceded by G & T, and washed down with a lovely wine. We took coffee and petits fours in the lounge where the hoards were arriving for NYE and we felt quite smug that we were already satisfied. The car magically appeared and we had an enjoyable family New Year's Eve in the comfort of our home. Well done Jonathan and staff for making our day !

We got married here on 9th November 2013 and our day couldn't have been any more perfect. I as the Bride stayed the night before and the minute I arrived on the Friday I was made to feel like the most important person at the hotel.
The day itself could not have gone better and we cannot thank all the brilliant staff enough. Our wedding planner was Claire Funnell and she was so brilliant from the day we booked the venue 2 years in advance to the wedding day itself. She was there every step of the way to help with my planning and answer my many questions. I managed not to be a stressed Bride throughout my 2 years of wedding planning and this was down to Claire making me feel relaxed and at ease knowing my wedding day was in her hands.
I must also thank Elliot who was absolutely wonderful on our wedding day. He was there the whole day making sure everything ran smoothly. He was even there the next morning to greet us at breakfast which really added the personal touch.
We had lots of our guests commenting on what a stunning venue it was and how wonderful the day was, we especially had lots of comments on the delicious lamb. Compliments to the chefs for a perfect wedding breakfast.
I would be quick to recommend The Grand Hotel to anyone looking for a beautiful wedding venue that appears to bride itself on it's wonderful attention to detail. We will be back for visits to relive the memories of our amazing day.

I am sure the afternoon tea at the Grand is always of a high standard but we were lucky enough to take tea on one of the few occasions when they have a Palm Court group playing throughout tea. No surprises that the quality of sandwiches, cakes and scones were very high.

We were invited to join friends who have an apartment in Eastbourne to celebrate New Year's Eve. Prior to the stay I have extensive contact with the hotel's reservation department about the various room/suite types. Our friends had booked the Mirabelle Package which included dinner in Mirabelle and vintage champagne. I felt the package was quite expensive, and unlike other hotels that offer you a discount on the room if you stay over the Grand add a surcharge as it is New Year.

In the end we chose a suite, which had a large lounge and four-poster bed, and a good size bathroom. The room overall was very clean and had some nice touches such as a decanter if sherry and small Christmas tree. The decor of the room was quite dated and the floorboards were showing through the very tired carpet, and the room felt in need of a good decorate and refresh. The bathroom was spacious but a little old fashioned with the dark wood and brass accessories.

We did not enjoy our dinner on New Year's Eve and found the arrangements some what complicated and not that well organised. The food was not very inspiring and was grossly overpriced for what we had, and the entire menu did not flow well, and we found the service to be somewhat hit or miss.

After dinner we were directed to go and sit in the great hall where coffee was served with some horrible, mushy petit fours. The atmosphere was very strange with people just sat round in what felt like a waiting room, not mixing with the other guests, unless you went to either of the two rooms were dancing was possible. However, as you had not been part of the party, you felt a bit like a gate crasher at someone else's party. The music from the band in the Garden Restaurant was in my opinion very amateurish and was more akin to a rowdy wedding than a refined New Year's Eve celebration. New Year came and went and well that was that.

The rest of the stay was a lot better and the New Year's Day buffet was excellent and very well stocked, and staff were very attentive. We had dinner that evening which again was very enjoyable as was the service.

Therefore overall we enjoyed our stay but would not recommend the New Year's package as we felt it was overpriced for what it was - a very average meal, two glasses of 'vintage' champagne - which had a very strange taste - some amateurish entertainment, and a bed for the night.

However, I believe that the Grand really does try to be an excellent hotel, and whilst not all staff were well trained, many of the staff were very kind and attentive. I understand the hotel is commencing a refurbishment of some of its rooms and in the Spring will start a redecoration of its facade and I am sure this will add to the overall experience.

What can one say about The Grand except the following:-

Friendly, courteous and efficient service always from the moment one is greeted by the doormen.
Good food, served beautifully by happy staff.
Comfortable and very clean bedrooms and bathrooms.
Pure comfort in the welcoming lounges and bar. Bliss!

P.S. We have visited and stayed many times, the last being a few days ago when we enjoyed the Grand's full afternoon tea with friends - excellent.

If you have not yet experienced the Grand's New Year celebration package, put it on your 'to do' list and start saving for it now. It's fairly expensive but well worth the asking price - in fact cheaper than spending new year in a run-of-the-mill hotel in Paris or Brussells via Eurostar.
We arrived at the Grand on 30th Dec in time for tea, pastries and music, followed later by a champagne reception and dinner, breakfast on new year's eve and the celebration bash in the evening with dinner, live music, dancing and champagne at midnight. The Garden restaurant (and the rest of the hotel) was beautifully decorated for the occasion with great atmosphere. A leisurely and wonderful brunch was provided on new year's day to complete the experience.
In our experience the rooms are well appointed and comfortable, plus at new year there are extra in-room goodies to enjoy. A nice touch for families is the entertainment for children. We have found the staff provide a highly professional service while at the same time showing kindness and consideration for guests. We have found that The Grand is one of those rare places where everything works as it should and, upon leaving, I must admit I start thinking of excuses to return.

Having been to the Grand Hotel for afternoon tea in April we loved the hotel and decided to book for New Years Eve and stay overnight. From the time we checked in until the time we left the team at the hotel were attentive, helpful and couldn't do enough for us. . We dined in the Devonshire Suite where the food was wonderful and saw the New Year in to the sound of the fabulous band. The wide choice of brunch the next day certainly cured our hangover from the night before. The overall package was great value for money and I have to say it was one of the best New Years I have had. We will definitely be booking for next year.

Our friends had been to The Grand Hotel for the New Years Eve celebrations last year (2012/2013) and rated their experience so highly we decided to join them, in the celebrations, this year (2013/2014). The whole experience was truely wonderful. From the high standard of our rooms, the wonderful food, the hospitality of the staff and the whole New Years Eve atmosphere was really amazing.
Please, please, please don't book The Grand Hotel for New Years Eve for 2014/2015, otherwise there may not be enough room for our party when we decide to book again.

Just returned from a weekend here with three generations - my mother who is in her 80's, my sisters and my daughter, 11. We have been several times before because we always have a great time - we all properly relax and just enjoy doing nothing for a few days - welcome escape from frenetic lives. What really makes this hotel is the staff - they are all so courteous and attentive in just the right way. Just to balance this review a little I would say they could do with more cushions in the lounge!

We were invited to a family / friends lunch and prior research showed a good menu and price. We were not disappointed; although we were not residents we received a warm welcome from the doorman and were ushered into the lounge for drinks. Service from all the staff was warm and welcoming and the three course set lunch offered a good range of choices, all cooked to perfection and served with style. If you are looking for a treat with excellent lunch, served in a luxurious setting but at a very good price, then I would thoroughly recommend The Grand.

Overall my experience at the grand was absolutely incredible. We have a sea side executive suite and the room was beautiful and modern. The breakfasts were amazing with a large choice of different items the only downer was that the breakfast could get a little bit hot and stuffy however the family and i took our breakfasts into another room. The staff were friendly and kind and made our stay a very good one. We will definitely be visiting the Grand again and for longer this time.

Years ago I lived in Eastbourne and it was always my wish to stay at the Grand, well I got my wish! We arrived on Saturday pm and was courtesly greeted by the staff and shown to our room, which was slightly dated, but still comfortable. We had a lovely evening meal in the restaurant which was late into the night and so we were looking forward to a lay in in the morning. How wrong we were. Our phone went at 7.30am promptly followed by room service staff banging on our bedroom door with someone else's early morning fresh milk, slight apologies here. Breakfast is somewhat confusing; my husband and I went into breakfast together but he had to go to the car to collect something, the waitress promptly took the menu of the table so my husband wasn't to get a choice of freshly cooked or buffet. On checking out, there was a piece of jewellery which I was interested in purchasing but they were too busy to deal with my request. The check out was so rushed,at least in a Premier Lodge, when you have a complaint they listen. The receptionist at the Grand gave us glib apologies.

My husband and I emailed the manager about the dis-satisfactory service and we still are awaiting a response, but won't hold my breath! I was going to return during the year to give them a second chance but....

You have to book early to get a table for Christmas in this lovely old school hotel. The decorations were festive but classy and the restaurants were decked with timeless tradition. We booked a table for 3 people in October and had to wait for the confirmation as they had been fully booked since the beginning of August. The reservation clerk however, worked her magic and managed to sort something for us in the Princes Restaurant. We arrived at 12 for a champagne reception then on to a 4 course delicious lunch of turkey and trimmings or lamb which was succulent and very tasty. Puddings to follow then coffee, petit fours and mince pies in the foyer overlooking the seaside on what turned out to be a gorgeous sunny day after all the deluge of rain and wind seen on previous days. Everything was well served, hot, flavoursome and well worth every penny. At £120 per head it may seem pricey but we were totally spoilt and our every request met throughout with well trained, smiling and good humoured staff. We wobbled out after five feeling full, festive and contented. The Grand is a super hotel throughout the year but they excel on special occasions and we'll be back again between now and Easter Sunday.

i took my wife for a birthday celebration. Dinner bed and breakfast.The hotel was not informed as we wished it to be a private affair. Everything went smoothly, beginning with an up-grade to a very pleasant sea view room. The dinner was in a quiet restaurant with very tasty food, service and attention impeccable.
Breakfast the following morning was more than adequate. Full English, cooked to order.

I was invited to tea at the Grand Hotel Eastbourne and had a wonderful time in the opulent grand hall. Contrary to our surroundings, the atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable with gentle piano music and a roaring open fire. We opted for the Champagne tea which included a glass of chilled bubbly followed by a choice of tea's, sandwich selection, dainty cakes and pastries and cream scones. The service was outstanding as was the meal itself and we were made to feel very special by the whole occasion.

Margret Robinson has asked me to post a review on her behalf as she is a regular visitor to this hotel, and always receives a warm welcome from all the staff throughout the hotel. All public areas are spacious, comfortable and elegant. Dining first rate in The Garden and Mirabelle restaurants with interesting menus, lovely afternoon tea in the drawing room.
The bedrooms, tastefully decorated, very well appointed and sparkling clean.
The cocktail bar has a happy congenial atmosphere .
On making my reservation directly with the hotel it's always pleasing how staff are happy to discuss room requirements .
I love the location of the Grand, wonderful sea views, also, throughout the year, post from the Grand with information on special events, and special offers.
A very happy and comfortable stay, thank you.

Every second spent at the Grand was indeed grand! I was smiling from the moment we were greeted at our car, shown handsomely to our delightful room and lay down on the incredible bed… I felt like a princess come home!! The grand didnt miss a beat, every moment was carefully, generously and skillfully delivered… indulging a terrific fantasy of timeless charm… I loved the range and quality of the cocktail bar, as a cookery teacher, I was blown away by the quality and sadly, rare, generosity, of the catering. as a therapist and a mother, I came away, feeling truly looked after, spoilt in fact, refreshed and reminded how special it feels to be cared and catered for. It felt that each person played their part and enjoyed their work. An incredible treat for which I am still gratefully smiling!!

I stayed here as part of a Christmas party group booking. The hotel staff were wonderful, couldn’t do enough for you, and the food was excellent.
My only gripe would be over sleep quality. I had a room over some sort of heating/air conditioning unit and didn’t sleep a wink – there was just a constant drone … I was in room 225 and a colleague was in 243 and had the same issue. I would recommend that anyone who is a light sleeper requests a room away from this inner area where the generator is.
Oh, and carpet in the bathroom is generally a no no - that should really be replaced with tiles...

Stayed for 2 nights at the Grand on a BB & D basis and had a wonderful time from the moment we drove up to the entrance to the time we left. The hotel and the service is old fashioned in the best possible way. Such nice friendly staff, brilliant housekeeping and lovely food. Our room was large and we were given a complimentary fridge which was handy for cooling our pre dinner drinks whilst we were changing for dinner. Hope to return soon

Luxurious hotel in ideal location. Excellent staff. Beautiful and elegant surroundings with historic and traditional 'step back in time' feel and theme. Comfortable room. Pleasant restaurant and lounge with very helpful staff.

We had a wonderful meal in the Mirabell restaurant. Staff were very attentive but not intrusive and the food was exquisite. A luxurious evening in beautiful surroundings with restful atmosphere was a real treat. This is a wonderful place for a special meal as a couple or special occasion.

I stayed overnight at this truly wonderful hotel for my 60th birthday. From the moment we arrived everyone was polite, friendly and very professional, they made me feel so very special. I had my birthday meal in the Mirabelle restaurant, what can I say it was just superb. The food delicious and the staff were so attentive a big Thank you to the restaurant manager Benjamin and his staff.

BOOKING
We booked our visit at the last minute and on the telephone. The lady was very efficient and allocated us the best room for our price, and included some special offers. The whole process was efficient and polite.

RECEPTION
We arrived at the hotel by car and was requested by the Concierge to drive up to the main entrance, where he proceeded to unload out luggage, take us to the hotel reception, hand our luggage to his assistant and park our car, all whilst we 'signed in.' Great efficiency.
We were then taken to our room, with the Porter explaining all of the facilities of the hotel during the time it took to take us to our room. He then explained about the room, and its facilities, and before we knew it he had left.
There was no waiting for a tip, and we subsequently learnt than none of the staff expect any. Tipping always appears to be demeaning, for both the receiver and the giver.
What a wonderful experience and introduction to the hotel.

THE ROOM
Spacious, pleasantly decorated, if a little old fashioned. The bed could have been larger, could have been a bit firmer, but everyone's requirements for beds is different. We subsequently learnt that a board could be placed under the matress if required, but we decided to accept what we were given, and we did not suffer any negative effects.
The hotel information brochure was little brief, and this could be extended, but this is an unduly harsh criticism.

THE BAR
The bar was noisey on our first evening, but this was the day guests, rather than the 'hotel' guests! The staff shut doors to separate the day guests from the hotel guests, for they were obviously aware of the potential problems.
Orders for drinks were quickly taken, and delivered, together with some nuts, crisps and olives. Subsequently some canapes were also delivered and described.
One evening there was a delay in our receiving the dinner menus, and then for our order to be taken, but in general the staff were very attentive and very polite. They used our name, rather than the room number, a nice touch.
The bar was a little cold on one evening, so we moved to one of the inner rooms, without windows. This was an easier solution than to raise any concerns.

DINNER
We ate in both of the restaurants, and the service in both was exceptional, as was the food. I do not think that we had a single bad meal, or even a mediocre meal. I did have a steak one eveing, which was not the best cut of meat, but everything else was well cooked and well prepared.
One evening the leeks were exceptional and I asked for a second helping. These were delivered quickly and efficiently, and tasted just as good as the first serving.

The hotel advertises a three course menu, but in both restaurants this transformed into a five course meal. There was always a 'complimentary' entre and a sorbet.

The presentation and quality of service throughout our visit was of an extremely high standard. Each main course was delivered under a domed cover, and there was a little 'theatrical' experience when the 'voila' moment arrived. All very well done and raised one's enjoyment of the performance, and the meal.

One waiter obviously had some issues, but these appeared to be kept away from ourselves.

BREAKFASTS
I suggest that this was the worst part of the hotel. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, when the hotel is the fullest, the breakfast's are buffet style, for all 'courses.' For a 5* hotel this was a little disappointing. On weekdays one only had to collect the cereals or fresh fruit. This was not a hardship, but we have stayed at smaller hotels, who provide a better standard of service.

The breakfast staff were all polite and efficient.

PUBLIC AREAS
These were all clean, neat and tidy and the housekeeping staff should be congratulated.
The main entrance hall is extremely grand and on Sunday afternoon a musical event was staged. This meant that we residents had a circuitous route to the lifts, through the bar. The music, a string quartet and piano I think, appeared pleasant, and was obviously appreciated by the paying day guests.

HOUSE-KEEPING
Very efficient, and the staff were all pleasant and efficient. They are to be congratulated. We also liked their uniforms.

MUSIC
In the Mirabelle restaurant there was a programmable piano, and in the Garden restaurant on Saturday evening there was a pianist, who was very good.

OVERALL
Would we stay again?
YES.
One or two niggles but overall and excellent break, at an excellent hotel.

as in area, popped in for a quiet drink in the evening, the atmosphere in the bar was good but staff did not appear they wanted to serve you and were not helpful at all. Had one drink but would not return.

We went to the Grand Hotel, Eastbourne as a party of four for Sunday lunch. It was a wet day and we were warmly greeted by the doorman who parked the car for us.

We were shown to a lounge for pre-dinner drinks and canapés and given the menu. There was no rush and we were given positive answers to our enquiries before being escorted to the dining room.

This is where the hotel excels, being beautifully furnished and comfortable too. The head waiter showed us to our pre-selected table. The food and service was first class – superb even!
After lunch we were escorted back to the lounge for coffee and chocolates. Upon leaving, our car was delivered to the door, to save us getting wet.

Altogether it was a wonderful experience. Our thanks go to Barbara and Martyn and the rest of the Garden Restaurant team, not forgetting the pianist.

David and Margaret Martin