Royal Exeter Hotel - Bournemouth, United Kingdom     

I booked into Bournemouth for a cruise leaving out of Southampton. Was a bit nervous of the town's "stag and hen" reputation, but the prices were right. After good research, I chose the Royal Exeter because of price, location and reviews on multiple sites (and in spite of some on here.) On the bus ride from the train station , I passed many of the hotels I'd seen online in the same price range and they were scary looking. I began to get a little worried. (Despite mis-information on the Web claiming there's no bus service, it picks up right outside the station very regularly and drops about 20meters away from the hotel). Boy, did I luck out. I'm writing this from my room right now on the free wifi. The hotel is a classic - lots of uppercrust English personality, a grand staircase, antiques, portraits etc. Slightly musty lobby, like aged wood. Not smoky or dirty. Reception was very pleasant and helpful with several requests. My room on the third floor is very nice. I reserved a single room, but the room is big enough for two (although a double bed). It is spotlessly clean, as is the lobby and hallways. Room is a good size, much better than many I've had throughout Europe. Carpets are in good shape. The bed is very comfortable, with a down comforter and good sheets. Cute throw pillows etc. Nice desk. Bathroom is white, spacious and very clean. Reasonably modern for such an old hotel. Bathroom floor linoleum is slightly worn but it's not bad and it is very clean. I'm very happy with the room. The bar and restaurant have been very busy, a good sign but I havent had time to try. I read some complaints about the lift not working and other issues etc but everything is effortlessly flowing with my visit. Havent had b-fast yet but I usually sleep through the free breakfast anyways. The location is fabulous...right up the street from the main beach with watersports, kids games etc. Overall, I really feel like I dodged a bullet. Out of all the hotels I've seen in this town since I arrived, I'd only consider staying here or the Hermitage next door. Okay, I admit, I'm a hotel snob and spoiled, but the rest looked pretty beaten up. The Royal Exeter was a great choice.

After a recommendation I stayed at this hotel with friends. The bars are some of the best I have been to because they have a good balance of ages and great music/atmosphere/food. They had live music on until midnight(ish) and still had a good atmoshere late afternoon after the beach!! Rooms very reasonably priced and clean.