Alexandra Hotel & Restaurant

We visited for drinks and dinner. This is a classic, old school, family owned and run, hotel with a restaurant and bar that is open to non residents as well as those staying in the hotel. We had expertly crafted cocktails in the bar followed by a delicious dinner in the conservatory, which is called the Ammonite restaurant. The food is what I would describe as classic British and European dishes with a modern twist. I had salmon cured in beetroot vodka for my first course and my partner had locally caught scallops. Both dishes were first class. For our main course we had both had sea bass, which was excellent. This was followed by Tiramisu for my partner and lemon tart with meringue and survey for me. Again, these were superb. The service is friendly and attentive without being intrusive or overbearing. They have a good wine list with options by the glass as well as by the bottle. Whilst by no means cheap, I would say that the prices represent very good value for what you are getting and for the location. All but one table in the restaurant was occupied on the night we went, so I think we were wise to have booked in advance, which we did painlessly via their website. We will certainly go back.

The Alex is a lovely hotel, set in gorgeous grounds with private paths to the gardens and the seafront. Our recent visit was to enjoy afternoon tea although we have stayed in the hotel many years ago. Upon arrival we were greeted with a warm smile, we were looked after by an attentive and well trained team. The conservatory in which we dined is breathtaking. Tables were perfectly laid and spotlessly clean. Chairs were very comfortable. We loved the scones and sandwiches. Great selection of cakes to round off a delightful display of decadence. A wide range of beverages was offered and toped up when needed. It was delicious. We all left with a smile. A joyous afternoon made possible by the team who looked after us during our visit. Thank you.

We stayed at this hotel for two nights for a close friends 60th party. The hotel is lovely, a lot of character with great sea views, amazing garden and short walk down onto beach. Our room was not the cheapest offered which raises the question, how small are the rest?! Not so much the room which was small but the bathroom which was one in one out can’t shut the door when sat on the loo type of small. We were in Room 1 - went back to room at about 11-11.30pm and all was in darkness. I know there are children staying with family but seriously. No staff for help when our room key was wrong. Called the number and two gents (who knows where they came from) arrived and let us in - no words uttered at all! It appears the very pleasant lady that showed us to the room gave us the wrong key (room 2). This begs the question, were we put in the wrong room for the money, I hope so. I won’t be going back for that price whoever good the location is. Breakfast was fine. When I asked for bottle of Prosecco at the end of the afternoon and was given a (lovely) but much more expensive bottle of English sparking wine from Dorset I feel they had taken advantage of me when the bar had been paid by my friend.