The hotel has a very homely feel and is bursting at the seams with bric-a-brac – there is definitely a ‘more is more’ approach towards the interior design choices, making it a bit like staying at an eccentric relative’s home. As you stroll through the hotel, you’ll see unique touches such as interesting artworks and a turntable to play their large collection of vinyls stacked in the corner of the lounge.
Bedrooms at the front of the house are smaller and cosier with sea views, while those at the back are larger and quieter. We stayed in Room 19, a sea-facing room at the top of the house, which was a bit on the pokey side (there’s was just enough room to swing a cat), however, it afforded stunning views of the marina. As we lounged in our room, we kept the window open for a bit of fresh air and enjoyed listening to the sounds of the seagulls flying by.
The restaurant is small and intimate – with room for 30 covers – and is quite comforting with its crimson walls bedecked with vintage prints of Empire Magazine and oriental rugs scattered across the original stone floors. Glass table lamps adorn the tables, adding a sense of romance to the occasion. In keeping with the anti-minimalist décor, the bookshelves in the dining room are stacked with books and a hodge podge of vintage finds.
We had the thyme roasted loin of Kentish beef with potato terrine, crisp beef shin, roasted shallot, kale, red wine sauce (£21.00), which was rich and flavoursome and the roasted loin of cod in a crab bisque sauce served with Pegwell Bay sea vegetables, roasted fennel, local asparagus and new potatoes (£17.50), which was exceptionally tasty and was a very generous portion - perfect for those with hearty appetites!
Breakfast is served in the communal dining room each morning where guests are able to help themselves to a cold buffet featuring fresh fruits, breads, cereals, fresh honeycomb and yogurt. For guests who are really peckish, a cooked breakfast is also on offer, with options including kippers, omelettes or a full English. As guests enjoy a leisurely breakfast, they can cast their eyes on various graphic art prints that are displayed on the walls.
The hotel is located within easy reach of the railway station and is close to the beach, the seafront, the yacht marina, the ferry terminal, local pubs and restaurants as well as local shops and golf courses.
The verdict
This is a great place to stay if you're looking for a bargain-friendly seaside escape.
The details
For more information or to make a booking, visit http://www.royalharbourhotel.co.uk. Prices from £79.00 per night including breakfast.
The Royal Harbour Hotel
Nelson Crescent
Ramsgate
Kent
CT11 9JF
Top tips
| Our experience overall The property: ★★★★ Food and drink: ★★★★ Staff attentiveness/friendliness: ★★★★★ *During our visit we were hosted by the team at The Royal Harbour Hotel. All views and opinions are my own. A.A. Miln |