The Grand Hotel Eastbourne
Latest Reviews
This was the second time my wife and I had enjoyed a mid-week lunch in the Garden Restaurant with two former colleagues and once again the Grand excelled. After drinks in the lounge we were ushered into the dining room where the mâitre d' announced that the loin of pork on the printed menu had now been substituted with a suprême of chicken. Fortunately this was not important as three of us had already selected the barbary duck. For starters we had the smoked trout with pickled anchovy, beautifully presented and served with a diced quail egg. The duck course was also expertly executed and came just as I like it, magret-style, medium-rare with a delicate truffled butter bean cassoulet garnish. But, food apart, perhaps the one of the main attractions to dining at The Grand is the 'vieux-monde' atmosphere with its highly attentive yet unobtrusive first-class service. Portions are generous and the veg comes elegantly served on a 'kidney' side dish (as much or as little as you require). This was accompanied by a quite reasonably priced bottle of Tempranillo. Sadly however, to comply with fatuous H&S rules and regs, the kitchen was obliged to serve its quality cheese stone cold straight out of the fridge, so although I sampled a wide selection, inevitably it was largely tasteless; my fault, I shall in future remember to pre-order at the start of the meal. Verdict: undying quality in an age of change.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This was my first time staying at The Grand, From the moment we arrived, all the staff were friendly and helpful. My husband and brother booked this hotel to celebrate my birthday, We had our 7 year old daughter with us, and the staff looked after her as well as us adults. My daughter wants to Live in this hotel now. Oliver from the bar area, was very helpful and friendly, and as i am not a big fan of children at the bar area, Oliver was brilliant, he was very good with my daughter. The food was lovely. The whole weekend was brilliant. We could not get booked into some of the treatments as they was fully booked, but did enjoy the swimming pool. We are going back in a couple of weeks for our Christmas do, i have booked up my treatments in advance so i am looking forward to this. Highly recoment this hotel. Thank you The Grand.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
From the moment my husband and I arrived at The Grand, Eastbourne, we did not stop smiling. We felt as if we had been taken back in time. The Grand is certainly 'grand' and we hardly felt the need to leave the hotel as it more than fulfilled our every requirement. Every member of staff went that extra mile to provide us with a totally relaxing and enjoyable experience. I booked our accommodation through the hotel and the receptionist was so helpful, spending time trying to give me the right deal to suit my needs and purse. The food was wonderful, from breakfast to our evening meal. It was a joy starting our day with a swim, sauna, etc. and the same before dressing for our evening meal in the restaurant. We returned home after our three days at The Grand, Eastbourne, feeling totally relaxed and planning when we could return. A wonderful experience.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Style is one thing and substance another, and The Grand Hotel Eastbourne, has them in equal measure.
Style is found in the grand architecture of the building and glorious interiors. Substance comes in the outstanding service of the staff, nothing is too much trouble for them. To describe it as service with a smile would be inadequate, rather warmth and courtesy is a more adequate description.
So this comes with our sincere thanks to all the staff at the Grand for a delightful first stay - thank you!
Style is found in the grand architecture of the building and glorious interiors. Substance comes in the outstanding service of the staff, nothing is too much trouble for them. To describe it as service with a smile would be inadequate, rather warmth and courtesy is a more adequate description.
So this comes with our sincere thanks to all the staff at the Grand for a delightful first stay - thank you!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Whilst other English seaside resorts have lost their 5 star hotels, Eastbourne appears unique in retaining the Grand. Whether you choose to experience the bracing winds and the rough sea as we did this morning or the sunshine of the summer months, the Grand provides a wonderful base.
From the moment we arrived to be greeted by the concierge and receptionist to the moment we checked out it was obvious that this was a special hotel. It is very well presented with extensive lounges and deep, comfortable chairs (!) two restaurants, including an extensive leisure facilities. Dinner was excellent and way ahead of the usual 'hotel dinning room' experience. However, what makes the hotel is the staff and their attitude to customer service. They are discreet, professional but friendly and each seem to enjoy their job. Enquiries indicated many have extremely long service, so that is part of the reason for such a high level of attention from room maids to porters, from receptionists to waiting staff.
Keep up the good work. We shall be back!
From the moment we arrived to be greeted by the concierge and receptionist to the moment we checked out it was obvious that this was a special hotel. It is very well presented with extensive lounges and deep, comfortable chairs (!) two restaurants, including an extensive leisure facilities. Dinner was excellent and way ahead of the usual 'hotel dinning room' experience. However, what makes the hotel is the staff and their attitude to customer service. They are discreet, professional but friendly and each seem to enjoy their job. Enquiries indicated many have extremely long service, so that is part of the reason for such a high level of attention from room maids to porters, from receptionists to waiting staff.
Keep up the good work. We shall be back!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Stayed 28-31 October 2013 on an Autumn Break. Best decision of the year! The "wedding cake" lived up to every expectation. Reception and welcome impeccable. Staff attentiveness impeccable throughout. Dining experience impeccable. Public rooms impeccable. Cleanliness impeccable - with staff wonderfully uniformed. Yes, the bedrooms may look a little "tired" in their furnishings but they are carefully crafted to suit the style of the hotel - and let's not get too hung up about carpets in bathrooms. I have no doubt that the Grand will continue to require gentlemen to dress "properly" for dinner and so they should. Those who do not wish to do so should exercise their right to stay elsewhere rather then whinge about the higher standards required at the Grand.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Starting on the positive side, the location of the hotel is excellent, right on the seafront, with excellent walks in both directions. There is a good sized car park (free!). From the outside, the hotel truly looks grand. Staff is very friendly. Reception is surprisingly small for such a big hotel, but we had no issues at all checking in (we stayed for one night only). We had a nice size room, which was clean, as was the bathroom. We had an excellent breakfast in a huge breakfast room. There were lots of people but the room acoustics could cope easily with the noise.
Having said all that no doubt you wonder why I rate this hotel only average. Well, they claim to be a five star hotel. However, the elevators were grubby, as was the information and room service folder in the room. The bed was not even a queen size, very old and with a VERY soft mattress. There was a turn down service, that did not tidy the room in any way but really only turned down the bed (there were for instance towels that we had left on the floor that were still exactly where we left them). As I said the bathroom was clean, but honestly I fail to understand why certain hotels keep using carpet in the bathroom. It cannot be hygienic at all. There was a nice lounge/ bar in the hotel. However, the couches and seats were really very tired with no springs left. I found them not comfortable at all. Staff again was very helpful, but even though there was a lot of staff and not too many guests, they managed to give me the wrong refill.
Would I stay there again? I might as it has a lot of Pros. I rate this average though as they claim to be a five star hotel, but they are definitely not (anymore).
Having said all that no doubt you wonder why I rate this hotel only average. Well, they claim to be a five star hotel. However, the elevators were grubby, as was the information and room service folder in the room. The bed was not even a queen size, very old and with a VERY soft mattress. There was a turn down service, that did not tidy the room in any way but really only turned down the bed (there were for instance towels that we had left on the floor that were still exactly where we left them). As I said the bathroom was clean, but honestly I fail to understand why certain hotels keep using carpet in the bathroom. It cannot be hygienic at all. There was a nice lounge/ bar in the hotel. However, the couches and seats were really very tired with no springs left. I found them not comfortable at all. Staff again was very helpful, but even though there was a lot of staff and not too many guests, they managed to give me the wrong refill.
Would I stay there again? I might as it has a lot of Pros. I rate this average though as they claim to be a five star hotel, but they are definitely not (anymore).
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I feel compelled to write this review to counter the ridiculous criticism the hotel is receiving on this site. Yes it is, in many ways, old fashioned but if you want modern, hip and trendy, go somewhere else. However, if you want service and elegance that harks back to a bygone era then come to The Grand.
We had our wedding reception here on the 6th July and I can honestly say that they got every little detail right. The service both before, during and after our big day was excellent and as for the food and drink on the day I can only say that every single one of our 100 guests commented on how much they enjoyed it. We have since been to a reception at South Lodge which cost nearly double ours but was not half as good.
If you are a couple searching around for a venue then I implore you to choose The Grand: you will not be disappointed.
We had our wedding reception here on the 6th July and I can honestly say that they got every little detail right. The service both before, during and after our big day was excellent and as for the food and drink on the day I can only say that every single one of our 100 guests commented on how much they enjoyed it. We have since been to a reception at South Lodge which cost nearly double ours but was not half as good.
If you are a couple searching around for a venue then I implore you to choose The Grand: you will not be disappointed.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
We have just returned from a 5 night stay at The Grand,and thoroughly enjoyed it.We go at least twice a month.Why you are probably asking.Well the location is just perfect,you are on the sea front,with splendid walks in both directions.The staff are friendly and helpful.Mind you we always greet staff with a smile and a hello (unlike afew of the residents who on occasions we notice treat the young staff members with very little respect) The food is of a high Hotel standard.The puddings have def.gone up a notch or two since the summer.Food in general is being presented in a much more attractive way.If in doubt select the roast of the day that is served from the magnificent Silver Trolley.The rooms do have dated furniture,but the beds are excellent.Pillows,towels and bed linen are all of a high standard.
If you want a winter break by the sea I suggest you try out The Grand.From the moment your bags are taken to your room,and you walk along the magnificent corridors( nearly long enough to run the 100 yards..that's dated me !) You realise you are in a "one off " hotel.Sit back in one of the huge lounges and,as all dining room staff the world over say ENJOY!
If you want a winter break by the sea I suggest you try out The Grand.From the moment your bags are taken to your room,and you walk along the magnificent corridors( nearly long enough to run the 100 yards..that's dated me !) You realise you are in a "one off " hotel.Sit back in one of the huge lounges and,as all dining room staff the world over say ENJOY!
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Lovely hotel. Beautiful room, good food, kind staff and central for town and theatres. Also near Towner gallery.
The spa therapists are good but the ladies changing rooms were untidy and grubby on one occasion. Free wifi downstairs.
The spa therapists are good but the ladies changing rooms were untidy and grubby on one occasion. Free wifi downstairs.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Very friendly and helpful staff. Excellent location right opposite beach and close to town and the Meads.
Room was massive (master suite 2nd floor), but very expensive. We had a nice comfortable separate lounge with a sofa bed, which was ideal for two of our three boys. Our baby stayed in a cot in our room.
Breakfast was pretty standard for this type of hotel. Tea was very nice though.
I was a bit disappointed with the service of the room. I had thrown some dirty towels and used flannels on the floor, which were quite wet and obviously dirty and they had just been hung up again? When I mentioned it though it was rectified quickly. Also I felt the room could have been cleaned better during our stay (we were certainly paying enough!).
I thought the hotel lobby was very impressive.
Would only go again when offers available.
When we got there the heating was on full blast, which was quite unbearable, so we had to turn all the radiators off in the room. I thought this was probably due to many elderly guests staying at the hotel.
Room was massive (master suite 2nd floor), but very expensive. We had a nice comfortable separate lounge with a sofa bed, which was ideal for two of our three boys. Our baby stayed in a cot in our room.
Breakfast was pretty standard for this type of hotel. Tea was very nice though.
I was a bit disappointed with the service of the room. I had thrown some dirty towels and used flannels on the floor, which were quite wet and obviously dirty and they had just been hung up again? When I mentioned it though it was rectified quickly. Also I felt the room could have been cleaned better during our stay (we were certainly paying enough!).
I thought the hotel lobby was very impressive.
Would only go again when offers available.
When we got there the heating was on full blast, which was quite unbearable, so we had to turn all the radiators off in the room. I thought this was probably due to many elderly guests staying at the hotel.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
There is not enough relaxing area around the pool for the size of hotel, rooms at the back are a little dingy ! But the hotel still retains the air of dignity!
This was a treat for my birthday from my son, breakfast was excellent ! And the whole stay was enjoyable.
This was a treat for my birthday from my son, breakfast was excellent ! And the whole stay was enjoyable.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Having been married all those years ago in Eastbourne we decided to book a suite for two nights at the Five Star Grand Hotel. Imagine our surprise on arrival that no car space or valet parking was available and would we please take our car to the town centre multi storey. Not a good start to our stay nor was being told we could not dine earlier than 8pm in the Mirabelle Restaurant. The suite left so much to be desired at the top price charged that our very special celebration turned into utter disappointment. Such a shame for Eastbourne. We checked out the following morning with a memory of a hotel which has lost the plot as to what service should be and is in urgent need of total refurbishment of its bedrooms and bathrooms.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I have been treated twice here for a meal - once for lunch and second time was dinner. The whole experience is just wonderful and takes you back in time when elegance and service were masters. Jackets and ties are not required for lunch but preferred for dinner -although we did get away with it midweek.
I cannot comment on the bedrooms, but everything else is just wonderful.
I cannot comment on the bedrooms, but everything else is just wonderful.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
I was take here for lunch by my parents who recently moved to Eastbourne.The hotel has a certain faded elegance.Prior to lunch we decided to have drinks in the lounge.Service was slow and we had a sour faced eastern european waitress who the management should fire.
The drinks once ordered were graciously served by the barman along with a plate of various snacks.Menus were brought and we were shown to our table. The service was superb and the food actually very good.Full marks to our waiter Ronnie for looking after us but other staff need to get their act together.
The drinks once ordered were graciously served by the barman along with a plate of various snacks.Menus were brought and we were shown to our table. The service was superb and the food actually very good.Full marks to our waiter Ronnie for looking after us but other staff need to get their act together.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Like the Eastbourne and the Empire, much of what set the Grand Hotel apart is now confined to dusty history books. The building and location are excellent. Sadly the experience is a series of dimishing returns thereafter. Upon entering the hotel, the reception staff were all extremely courteous, professional and had me checked in with minimum fuss. Dealing with the concierge was more hassle, however. I had mentioned I had neglected to pack socks and were there any shops locally that were opened after 6pm. I was told no, the only places were out of town. In fact there were many a mere 10 minute walk. Maybe I am a feeble looking 30something. This annoyed me more than it should. My bedroom room was extremely spacious, however the bathroom left a lot to be desired. Perhaps fully carpeted bathroom suites were once an ostentatious display of wealth. Nowadays it automatically conjures up images of a foul smelling, dank room riddled with other people's foot sweat and athlete's foot. The shower was in a stand in bath, the mattress was extremely soft and the decor so dated it will probably be en vogue again any year now. I felt like I was staying with my grandmother. As for the clientele, being judged at for being under 40 and not wearing a tie while walking the corridors does not create an overly welcoming environment. In terms of dining, lunch and dinner were part of the package. Both can only be described as functional dining experiences. Lunch was little more than canteen food albeit with attention paid to using seasonal vegetables. Dinner was standard but nowhere near what one would expect from a 5 star hotel. If one must visit Eastbourne, I am confident there are more cost effective options.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
On arriving at The Grand we were welcomed by a very friendly and informative receptionist, then we were shown to our room and offered help with our bags. A good first impression.
However, when we entered our Deluxe room we were slightly disappointed - the room was very dated and wallpaper coming away from the wall, a tiny t.v and the tea making facilities were on the floor in the wardrobe... Bathroom was spacious and spotlessly clean, as was the rest of the hotel.
I will say that the quality of the bedding, and mattress, along with the Molton Brown toiletries, we were soon won over.
Spa - sadly I did not book in advance and didn't get to enjoy a treatment here but the spa/pool area and gym were fantastic. We spent a whole day (whilst it was raining outside) laying around the pool, enjoying the jet spa and sauna room. You can also order food and drinks here at a reasonable price.
After our first night the hotel grew on us, along with the dated furnishings/decor - it was quite nice to see the original features of the hotel and tried to imagine it how it was back in it's own era.
Staff were all great and helpful - the only thing that needs to change (in my opinion) is the dress code for dinner - we had to eat out (apart from breakfast which was delicious) because of the black tie/dinner jacket rule which was a shame. They have 2 restaurants - surely they could have one for more relaxed diners?
Overall a lovely stay and would come back.
However, when we entered our Deluxe room we were slightly disappointed - the room was very dated and wallpaper coming away from the wall, a tiny t.v and the tea making facilities were on the floor in the wardrobe... Bathroom was spacious and spotlessly clean, as was the rest of the hotel.
I will say that the quality of the bedding, and mattress, along with the Molton Brown toiletries, we were soon won over.
Spa - sadly I did not book in advance and didn't get to enjoy a treatment here but the spa/pool area and gym were fantastic. We spent a whole day (whilst it was raining outside) laying around the pool, enjoying the jet spa and sauna room. You can also order food and drinks here at a reasonable price.
After our first night the hotel grew on us, along with the dated furnishings/decor - it was quite nice to see the original features of the hotel and tried to imagine it how it was back in it's own era.
Staff were all great and helpful - the only thing that needs to change (in my opinion) is the dress code for dinner - we had to eat out (apart from breakfast which was delicious) because of the black tie/dinner jacket rule which was a shame. They have 2 restaurants - surely they could have one for more relaxed diners?
Overall a lovely stay and would come back.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
This hotel is rated 5 star so I was expecting 5 star service but sadly it failed a few times. We were staying over night & our room was ready when we arrived, a sea view which was gorgeous. We decided on a cream tea but on arriving at the lounge we were shown to our seats and forgotten about for 30 minutes! Cream tea eventually arrived & was yummy. A quick drink before dinner again turned into a waiting game, 20 minutes before we were served. Dinner was 5 star, breakfast was 5 star & the leisure facilities were also 5 star - staff not so 5 star! Waitresses were clueless which was a shame. My advice book a table if a cuppa is required & allow time before dinner for a drink.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
At one level, this was a charming experience. A truly lovely building from a different era, with the public areas very well restored and maintained. The staff were very polite and welcoming. And all the basic requirements of a good bed and good shower in a clean environment were met. But at another level, this was really a bit dated - especially for the high room rates offered. The bedroom furnishings (in a superior room) were dated; the carpet in the bathroom a serious no-no at a time when we expect a high standard of hygiene in guest bathrooms; and a demand that guests wear a jacket or tie in the evenings in the public areas - including the bar - really ludicrous in the 21st century (especially when peering into the dining room, the sartorial dress sense was somewhat odd). So if you want to take a step back to another era, then this is definitely recommended - but perhaps not for those of us who want something rather more up-to-date at every level.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Wonderful old Victorian building but rooms are in need of an update, particularly the carpetted bathrooms (eeewww!).
Friendly and helpful service.
Outdated rules dictating dress codes - men must wear tie or jacket in restaurant and bars - ensured that we did not drink or eat in the hotel, so can't comment on quality of food or drink, except for breakfast which was good.
Friendly and helpful service.
Outdated rules dictating dress codes - men must wear tie or jacket in restaurant and bars - ensured that we did not drink or eat in the hotel, so can't comment on quality of food or drink, except for breakfast which was good.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
My daughter got married on Saturday and we had the reception here.
Claire has been brilliant with the organisation/planning, and all staff on the day and beforehand could not have been more helpful and friendly.
Steve, the toastmaster was great, the chefs did a fantastic job, and the managers were on hand to help at all times.
Both families and friends had one of the best days of their lives – and I know for sure, so did the bride and groom.
I would recommend this hotel without hesitation (for any special occasion), and although many people will think it is expensive (the only 5 star hotel in the area), it was less than I thought it would be, and actually, in my opinion, excellent value for money.
many guests stayed on the third floor, and the rooms were large, comfortable and added the final touch to a brilliant day.
Claire has been brilliant with the organisation/planning, and all staff on the day and beforehand could not have been more helpful and friendly.
Steve, the toastmaster was great, the chefs did a fantastic job, and the managers were on hand to help at all times.
Both families and friends had one of the best days of their lives – and I know for sure, so did the bride and groom.
I would recommend this hotel without hesitation (for any special occasion), and although many people will think it is expensive (the only 5 star hotel in the area), it was less than I thought it would be, and actually, in my opinion, excellent value for money.
many guests stayed on the third floor, and the rooms were large, comfortable and added the final touch to a brilliant day.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
Built in an era when beautiful architecture boasting high ornate plasterwork ceilings and an imposing elegant staircase were the norm for a top end hotel this `Grand` lives up to its name. Everyone has travelled to reach a destination, we had driven for only an hour and a half but the charming enquiry if we had had a good journey immediately strikes a warm chord of welcome from the moment we stepped out of the car. The air of discreet, efficient but kind service pervaded the entire stay, especially as my friend is in her late nineties! The staff are thoughtful in their helpfulness. We dined deliciously each evening and breakfast a daily battle with temptation...from the very fresh fruit salad to the super quality smoked salmon. Be spoilt and chill out in Grand style, enjoy the beautiful views less than 10 minutes away from Beachy Head and especially Birling Gap.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
this hotel is for you if you enjoy formal polite service with opulent surroundings afternoon tea a must most services first class the restaurant staff let this down. heated pool & spa services out door pool needed a clean but still usable on the day we used it very warm September day nice seating area around outdoor pool bars & lounges very comfortable excellent location on sea front can recommend sea view two bedroom suite if travelling with friends all in all a delightful stay
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
The Grand was the perfect place to spend a celebration weekend for my mother's 90th birthday. There were 9 in our party (age range 22 - 90) and we all had a great time. We requested a room close to my mother for convenience and were delighted when we found we had been upgraded to a suite which was connected to a lovely room for my mother. The staff were very helpful, polite and friendly and did all they could to make our stay wonderful. All the meals we had were delicious especially dinner in the Garden Restaurant. I shall look forward to staying there again.
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
As always this delightful hotel delivers on every level, we had a very nice twin room with plenty of space , it was quiet but ther is still an air of relaxation and peace anyway, the sun shone and we had another great stay thankyou to all who made us feel special . It's a treat we look forward to again soon ,
Source: tripadvisor.co.uk
