The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns
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Summary of reviewsSmugglers Cove in Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns offers a variety of positive experiences across different essential categories. The hotel's location is particularly appreciated for its convenience, situated on the outskirts of Clacton with easy access to numerous local amenities, such as supermarkets and fast food outlets. Guests find the area peaceful, clean and safe, making it ideal for family visits, events or exploring the surroundings. Ample parking and EV charging facilities further enhance its attractiveness to travelers.
Breakfast at Smugglers Cove garners mixed reviews, yet many praise its good value, variety and quality. Guests often commend the freshly cooked meals with full English options standing out. However, there are occasional mentions of issues like dirty glasses and underwhelming continental choices. Dinner experiences generally receive positive feedback. The restaurant serves popular pub meals that many find delicious and well-prepared with the carvery and evening meals being particularly favored.
The hotel rooms receive predominantly positive feedback, valued for their modern, spacious and clean accommodations. Many guests appreciate the comfortable beds, good room layout and the inclusion of air conditioning. Families, in particular, benefit from the practical and roomy family accommodations. While some minor cleanliness issues and maintenance concerns are noted, the overall sentiment regarding the rooms is favorable.
Cleanliness of the hotel is often highlighted positively with many guests describing the rooms and common areas as spotless and well-maintained. Although there are occasional lapses in cleanliness, the hotel generally maintains a high standard, contributing to a comfortable and pleasant stay for most visitors.
The staff at Smugglers Cove are frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and efficiency. Guests note the exceptional service provided, particularly at the reception and in the restaurant, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. Despite isolated comments about occasional rudeness, the overall feedback on the staff is overwhelmingly positive.
Free WiFi at the hotel receives mixed reviews. While some guests experience good speed and reliability, others report difficulties in connecting and issues with slow speeds. Those who successfully connect generally find the service satisfactory for their needs.
The hotel's abundant parking, including EV charging facilities, is well-received with ample, well-lit and secure spaces available, enhancing the convenience for those driving to the hotel. The added bonus of EV chargers is particularly appreciated by eco-conscious travelers.
Smugglers Cove is regarded as a family-friendly establishment with spacious and comfortable family rooms, helpful staff and convenient amenities like a nearby 24-hour McDonald's and an on-site restaurant with an extensive menu. Although some family rooms are smaller or located without elevator access, the facilities generally cater well to families’ needs, ensuring a pleasant stay for guests of all ages.
Overall, Smugglers Cove offers a well-rounded, comfortable and convenient stay with good value, making it a favorable choice for visitors to Clacton On Sea.
Categories
Breakfast at Smugglers Cove garners mixed reviews, yet many praise its good value, variety and quality. Guests often commend the freshly cooked meals with full English options standing out. However, there are occasional mentions of issues like dirty glasses and underwhelming continental choices. Dinner experiences generally receive positive feedback. The restaurant serves popular pub meals that many find delicious and well-prepared with the carvery and evening meals being particularly favored.
The hotel rooms receive predominantly positive feedback, valued for their modern, spacious and clean accommodations. Many guests appreciate the comfortable beds, good room layout and the inclusion of air conditioning. Families, in particular, benefit from the practical and roomy family accommodations. While some minor cleanliness issues and maintenance concerns are noted, the overall sentiment regarding the rooms is favorable.
Cleanliness of the hotel is often highlighted positively with many guests describing the rooms and common areas as spotless and well-maintained. Although there are occasional lapses in cleanliness, the hotel generally maintains a high standard, contributing to a comfortable and pleasant stay for most visitors.
The staff at Smugglers Cove are frequently praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and efficiency. Guests note the exceptional service provided, particularly at the reception and in the restaurant, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere. Despite isolated comments about occasional rudeness, the overall feedback on the staff is overwhelmingly positive.
Free WiFi at the hotel receives mixed reviews. While some guests experience good speed and reliability, others report difficulties in connecting and issues with slow speeds. Those who successfully connect generally find the service satisfactory for their needs.
The hotel's abundant parking, including EV charging facilities, is well-received with ample, well-lit and secure spaces available, enhancing the convenience for those driving to the hotel. The added bonus of EV chargers is particularly appreciated by eco-conscious travelers.
Smugglers Cove is regarded as a family-friendly establishment with spacious and comfortable family rooms, helpful staff and convenient amenities like a nearby 24-hour McDonald's and an on-site restaurant with an extensive menu. Although some family rooms are smaller or located without elevator access, the facilities generally cater well to families’ needs, ensuring a pleasant stay for guests of all ages.
Overall, Smugglers Cove offers a well-rounded, comfortable and convenient stay with good value, making it a favorable choice for visitors to Clacton On Sea.
Hotel with Parking
This hotel, also known as The Aviator, offers free parking for its guests, providing a convenient option for those arriving by car. Free self-parking is available.
EV charging stations
Hotel with EV Charging Stations
Family Friendly Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Guest Reviews
Smugglers Cove in Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns boasts a notably convenient location, highly praised by guests for various positive aspects. Situated on the outskirts of Clacton, it provides easy access to a plethora of local amenities, including shops, supermarkets such as Tesco, M&S and Lidl and numerous fast food outlets like McDonald's and KFC. The area is described as quiet and peaceful, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of the town center while still being just a short drive away from the beach and the town’s main attractions.
Guests appreciate the ample parking space and find the location ideal for visiting local attractions like the theatre and the seafront. Although it is situated in an industrial and retail park setting, the hotel's surroundings are considered clean, safe and convenient.
It's particularly noted as a perfect spot for visiting family, attending events like weddings or simply exploring Clacton and its surroundings. Despite being a bit further from the center and the promenade, the location's accessibility by car and proximity to necessary facilities make it a suitable base for diverse needs.
For those willing to drive or use public transport, the hotel’s location offers a strategic advantage, balancing the benefits of town proximity with the tranquility of being slightly removed from the central hub. In essence, Smugglers Cove offers a well-rounded, geographically convenient and quiet stay with good value for its location, making it a favorable choice for many visitors to Clacton On Sea.
Smugglers Cove in Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns offers a breakfast experience with a broad spectrum of feedback. Many guests commend the breakfast for its good value, variety and quality. Numerous reviews highlight the excellent and tasty breakfasts with special appreciation for the freshly cooked meals and full English options. Some guests found the breakfast to be exceptional, enjoying pleasant interactions with the staff and generous meal portions.
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some guests encountered issues such as dirty glasses, malfunctioning coffee machines and underwhelming continental choices. The presentation and taste of certain items like bacon and eggs did not always meet expectations and there were occasional complaints about the cleanliness of the breakfast area. Service efficiency was another area of concern for some visitors.
While many praised the breakfast for its quality and reasonable pricing, others felt it did not justify the cost, especially when faced with issues like overcooked or inadequately prepared food. On the whole, it seems the breakfast experience at Smugglers Cove can vary, offering a generally positive experience with room for improvement in consistency and service.
Smugglers Cove in Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns receives generally positive reviews for its dining experience. Guests frequently highlight the restaurant's good food with many mentioning the excellent carvery and delicious dining options even if some found the carvery occasionally average or the beef tough. There are compliments on the varied menu with pub food such as gammon and chips, fish and chips and roasts being particularly popular. The pub connected to the hotel is noted for being convenient, offering good value and having a welcoming atmosphere for both meals and drinks. Dishes are often praised for their high standards with some specifying that the meals were well-prepared and that the portions were generous. Service quality is also positively mentioned with friendly staff contributing to the overall good dining experience.
That said, there are occasional less favorable comments about the food's quality, such as issues with overcooked steaks and bland dishes. Despite these mixed reviews, the overarching sentiment remains favorable with many guests appreciating the dining offerings and the convenience of the associated pub/restaurant. The breakfast, in particular, garners excellent remarks, complementing the generally good impression left by the evening meals.
At The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns, guest feedback reveals predominantly positive impressions about the rooms. Guests frequently appreciated the modern, well-decorated and spacious accommodations, noting they were comfortable and clean. Many highlighted the ample space, good layout and the pleasant bonus of air conditioning. Families enjoyed the inclusion of multiple beds and the practicality of family rooms, albeit a few pointed out occasional noise from common areas.
Cleanliness was often remarked upon favorably with numerous guests describing the rooms as immaculate, spotless and fresh. Comfortable beds and sizable rooms were consistent positives, contributing to a restful stay. The availability of tea and coffee in the room, comfortable lounge spaces and good-sized bathrooms with full-size baths or showers were additional appreciated features.
However, there were some recurring issues that guests mentioned. While many rooms were praised for their cleanliness and tidiness, some reviews noted instances of rooms being dusty or not cleaned to perfection. A few guests found the décor tired with suggestions that a fresh coat of paint could enhance the appeal. Maintenance issues such as broken fixtures, wear and tear and occasional air conditioning problems were also mentioned, though these appeared to be less frequent.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus from guests is that the rooms at Smugglers Cove offer comfort, space and cleanliness, making them exceptional value for money and suited for short stays. The friendly staff and convenient location near a restaurant added to guests' positive experiences, ensuring that many enjoyed their stays and found the accommodations met their expectations and needs.
Nestled in the scenic coastal town of Clacton On Sea, Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns offers a mixed experience when it comes to its bedding. The majority of guests laud the establishment for its impressively comfortable beds, ranging from large, spacious beds to heavenly, super comfy ones. Words such as extremely comfortable, fluffy and gorgeous are frequently used to describe the bedding, contributing to a restful and pleasant stay for many.
Several reviews highlight the spacious and clean rooms, which complement the comfortable bedding, ensuring a satisfying experience. Guests appreciated the clean linens and the overall cleanliness of the rooms, which added to the comfort level.
However, not all experiences were positive. Some guests found the beds seriously uncomfortable or noted issues with the mattresses, which detracted from their overall comfort. Complaints about the duvet being too hot and isolated incidents of bad bed conditions also emerged.
Despite these occasional setbacks, the general consensus leans significantly towards a positive experience with the bedding at Smugglers Cove. Comfortable beds, friendly staff and the surrounding amenities make it an appealing choice for many visitors.
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns has garnered varied feedback regarding its cleanliness with a substantial number of guests praising the hotel for its high standards. Many visitors have noted the rooms to be clean, comfortable and modern, highlighting spotless and well-maintained facilities. With descriptors like clean and fresh, extremely clean and spotlessly clean repeatedly appearing, it's clear that the majority of guests found the hotel to be in excellent condition. The bedding, bathrooms and communal areas were frequently reported as being impeccable, contributing to an overall positive impression.
However, some reviews indicate that occasional lapses in cleanliness were evident. A few guests mentioned issues such as dusty rooms, dirty carpets and walls and missed cleaning details like used items left in bins or stains on skirting boards. There were also isolated remarks about specific maintenance needs, including repainting and improving the thoroughness of cleaning in some cases.
Despite these occasional concerns, the consensus tilts towards a clean and welcoming experience for most guests, underscored by excellent value for money, friendly staff and a comfortable stay. The emphasis on a neat orderly environment suggests that Smugglers Cove commits to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness, making it a reliable choice for visitors to Clacton On Sea.
The staff at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns receive overwhelmingly positive feedback from guests, who frequently describe their interactions as friendly, helpful and welcoming. Review highlights include the exceptional customer service provided at reception with several guests noting the outstanding assistance of specific staff members like Amanda and Susan. The team is generally characterized as polite and cheerful, maintaining a professional demeanor while remaining approachable and efficient. Even during busy periods, the staff have been praised for staying attentive and accommodating to guests’ needs. Many visitors specifically mentioned the smooth check-in process and the promptness of service provided in both the reception area and the restaurant. Despite some isolated comments about occasional rudeness, the vast majority of reviewers commend the staff for their excellent service, noting that nothing seems too much trouble for them. Overall, the friendly and efficient nature of the staff contributes significantly to a welcoming and comfortable stay at the hotel.
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns offers free WiFi, which can be a valuable amenity for many guests. Some have found the WiFi to be of good speed, sufficient to stream content without buffering, making it possible to use devices such as a firestick without issues. Guests appreciated having rooms with internet TV and reliable WiFi, facilitating the streaming of online programs directly to the TV.
However, not all experiences were positive. Some guests encountered difficulties with the WiFi connection, describing it as poor and slow in certain areas of the hotel. Others faced problems with access, finding it impossible to connect and at times reported there being no visible network. There were instances where no information was provided about the WiFi, leaving guests to figure out the connection process on their own.
Overall, while there are mixed reviews regarding the WiFi, those who managed to connect generally experienced satisfactory service for their needs.
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns offers a plethora of parking options that are generally well received by guests. Visitors commend the abundant availability of parking spaces, which ensures a hassle-free experience regardless of the time of day. Multiple reviews highlight the presence of free parking, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for those driving to the hotel. The parking lot is spacious and well-lit, adding a layer of security and ease during overnight stays.
Moreover, the site features electric vehicle charging stations, which is an added bonus for eco-conscious travelers. The hotel's large car park is shared with the on-site pub/restaurant, yet it remains ample and accessible. Guests appreciate the safety and accessibility of the parking area with some noting the convenience of parking spaces right outside their rooms. Overall, the parking facilities at Smugglers Cove are described as excellent with plenty of spaces making it a stress-free experience for all visitors.
Travellers visiting The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns, have highlighted the availability of EV charging facilities at the hotel as a useful convenience. The hotel offers free EV charging, which many guests find to be a pleasant bonus. The car charging stations significantly ease the travel experience for electric vehicle owners, providing plenty of parking spaces with charging capabilities.
While it was mentioned that only 7kW chargers are available and there are a limited number of charging points, specifically one electric charging space next to the disabled space with two chargers, the provision of these facilities is generally appreciated by guests. The availability of car electric hookups serves as an additional advantage for those traveling in electric vehicles.
Located in Clacton On Sea, Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns stands out as a welcoming haven for families. Many guests have praised the establishment for its family-oriented atmosphere, highlighting that the accommodations are well-suited for families of various sizes. The family rooms, though differing in size, have received commendations for their spaciousness and comfort, proving particularly advantageous for those traveling with children. Some guests noted that the ground-floor family rooms are smaller and there were occasional concerns about noisy neighbors with children.
The hotel's facilities are well-equipped to cater to families' needs, evidenced by the provision of additional bedding and travel cots. Many reviewers appreciated the convenience of having a McDonald's open 24 hours nearby, which delighted the grandkids and the outdoor seating area provided a pleasant spot for parents to relax while their children played.
The staff at Smugglers Cove have been described as lovely, welcoming and accommodating, often going out of their way to meet guests’ needs. This level of service has made returning guests out of many families, who found the late check-out option particularly helpful during significant family events like weddings or christenings.
In terms of amenities, the on-site restaurant received positive remarks for its extensive menu and drink options, while the playground was a hit with the younger guests. Plenty of parking and the hotel's proximity to local activities were additional benefits frequently noted.
While the family rooms located upstairs pose a challenge due to the absence of a lift, the overall ease of access has benefited families traveling with elderly members or young children. Despite occasional critiques, Smugglers Cove remains a highly recommended choice for its family-friendly environment, accommodating staff and overall convenience.
Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns presents a mixed but generally positive picture regarding its accessibility for guests with disabilities. Several reviews have mentioned the availability of ground-floor rooms, which is advantageous for those with mobility issues. Guests appreciated features such as walk-in showers in accessible rooms, which were particularly helpful for people recovering from surgeries or with other mobility constraints. The room sizes were also noted to be good for wheelchair users.
The location itself has easy access to main routes, making it convenient for guests who need to travel to and from various places. Parking, while accessible, was limited with only two disabled spaces and there were instances where all these spaces were already taken. This could be a potential drawback for some guests.
Though some areas were noted as accessible, the hotel lacks a lift, which could pose challenges for individuals needing to reach higher floors. The bathroom facilities included accessible wet rooms, but it was pointed out that only one was accessible at times due to crowding.
Overall, the hotel's accessible offerings were appreciated with positive mentions of the accessible parking, MS-friendly rooms and safe access. However, there were also points where improvements are needed, such as the addition of more accessible toilets and ensuring that all areas are easily reachable for all guests.
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Location
Guests appreciate the ample parking space and find the location ideal for visiting local attractions like the theatre and the seafront. Although it is situated in an industrial and retail park setting, the hotel's surroundings are considered clean, safe and convenient.
It's particularly noted as a perfect spot for visiting family, attending events like weddings or simply exploring Clacton and its surroundings. Despite being a bit further from the center and the promenade, the location's accessibility by car and proximity to necessary facilities make it a suitable base for diverse needs.
For those willing to drive or use public transport, the hotel’s location offers a strategic advantage, balancing the benefits of town proximity with the tranquility of being slightly removed from the central hub. In essence, Smugglers Cove offers a well-rounded, geographically convenient and quiet stay with good value for its location, making it a favorable choice for many visitors to Clacton On Sea.
Breakfast
However, not all feedback is glowing. Some guests encountered issues such as dirty glasses, malfunctioning coffee machines and underwhelming continental choices. The presentation and taste of certain items like bacon and eggs did not always meet expectations and there were occasional complaints about the cleanliness of the breakfast area. Service efficiency was another area of concern for some visitors.
While many praised the breakfast for its quality and reasonable pricing, others felt it did not justify the cost, especially when faced with issues like overcooked or inadequately prepared food. On the whole, it seems the breakfast experience at Smugglers Cove can vary, offering a generally positive experience with room for improvement in consistency and service.
Dinner
That said, there are occasional less favorable comments about the food's quality, such as issues with overcooked steaks and bland dishes. Despite these mixed reviews, the overarching sentiment remains favorable with many guests appreciating the dining offerings and the convenience of the associated pub/restaurant. The breakfast, in particular, garners excellent remarks, complementing the generally good impression left by the evening meals.
Rooms
Cleanliness was often remarked upon favorably with numerous guests describing the rooms as immaculate, spotless and fresh. Comfortable beds and sizable rooms were consistent positives, contributing to a restful stay. The availability of tea and coffee in the room, comfortable lounge spaces and good-sized bathrooms with full-size baths or showers were additional appreciated features.
However, there were some recurring issues that guests mentioned. While many rooms were praised for their cleanliness and tidiness, some reviews noted instances of rooms being dusty or not cleaned to perfection. A few guests found the décor tired with suggestions that a fresh coat of paint could enhance the appeal. Maintenance issues such as broken fixtures, wear and tear and occasional air conditioning problems were also mentioned, though these appeared to be less frequent.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus from guests is that the rooms at Smugglers Cove offer comfort, space and cleanliness, making them exceptional value for money and suited for short stays. The friendly staff and convenient location near a restaurant added to guests' positive experiences, ensuring that many enjoyed their stays and found the accommodations met their expectations and needs.
Beds
Several reviews highlight the spacious and clean rooms, which complement the comfortable bedding, ensuring a satisfying experience. Guests appreciated the clean linens and the overall cleanliness of the rooms, which added to the comfort level.
However, not all experiences were positive. Some guests found the beds seriously uncomfortable or noted issues with the mattresses, which detracted from their overall comfort. Complaints about the duvet being too hot and isolated incidents of bad bed conditions also emerged.
Despite these occasional setbacks, the general consensus leans significantly towards a positive experience with the bedding at Smugglers Cove. Comfortable beds, friendly staff and the surrounding amenities make it an appealing choice for many visitors.
Cleanliness
However, some reviews indicate that occasional lapses in cleanliness were evident. A few guests mentioned issues such as dusty rooms, dirty carpets and walls and missed cleaning details like used items left in bins or stains on skirting boards. There were also isolated remarks about specific maintenance needs, including repainting and improving the thoroughness of cleaning in some cases.
Despite these occasional concerns, the consensus tilts towards a clean and welcoming experience for most guests, underscored by excellent value for money, friendly staff and a comfortable stay. The emphasis on a neat orderly environment suggests that Smugglers Cove commits to maintaining a high standard of cleanliness, making it a reliable choice for visitors to Clacton On Sea.
Staff
Wi-Fi
However, not all experiences were positive. Some guests encountered difficulties with the WiFi connection, describing it as poor and slow in certain areas of the hotel. Others faced problems with access, finding it impossible to connect and at times reported there being no visible network. There were instances where no information was provided about the WiFi, leaving guests to figure out the connection process on their own.
Overall, while there are mixed reviews regarding the WiFi, those who managed to connect generally experienced satisfactory service for their needs.
Parking
Moreover, the site features electric vehicle charging stations, which is an added bonus for eco-conscious travelers. The hotel's large car park is shared with the on-site pub/restaurant, yet it remains ample and accessible. Guests appreciate the safety and accessibility of the parking area with some noting the convenience of parking spaces right outside their rooms. Overall, the parking facilities at Smugglers Cove are described as excellent with plenty of spaces making it a stress-free experience for all visitors.
EV charging stations
While it was mentioned that only 7kW chargers are available and there are a limited number of charging points, specifically one electric charging space next to the disabled space with two chargers, the provision of these facilities is generally appreciated by guests. The availability of car electric hookups serves as an additional advantage for those traveling in electric vehicles.
Family
The hotel's facilities are well-equipped to cater to families' needs, evidenced by the provision of additional bedding and travel cots. Many reviewers appreciated the convenience of having a McDonald's open 24 hours nearby, which delighted the grandkids and the outdoor seating area provided a pleasant spot for parents to relax while their children played.
The staff at Smugglers Cove have been described as lovely, welcoming and accommodating, often going out of their way to meet guests’ needs. This level of service has made returning guests out of many families, who found the late check-out option particularly helpful during significant family events like weddings or christenings.
In terms of amenities, the on-site restaurant received positive remarks for its extensive menu and drink options, while the playground was a hit with the younger guests. Plenty of parking and the hotel's proximity to local activities were additional benefits frequently noted.
While the family rooms located upstairs pose a challenge due to the absence of a lift, the overall ease of access has benefited families traveling with elderly members or young children. Despite occasional critiques, Smugglers Cove remains a highly recommended choice for its family-friendly environment, accommodating staff and overall convenience.
Accessible
The location itself has easy access to main routes, making it convenient for guests who need to travel to and from various places. Parking, while accessible, was limited with only two disabled spaces and there were instances where all these spaces were already taken. This could be a potential drawback for some guests.
Though some areas were noted as accessible, the hotel lacks a lift, which could pose challenges for individuals needing to reach higher floors. The bathroom facilities included accessible wet rooms, but it was pointed out that only one was accessible at times due to crowding.
Overall, the hotel's accessible offerings were appreciated with positive mentions of the accessible parking, MS-friendly rooms and safe access. However, there were also points where improvements are needed, such as the addition of more accessible toilets and ensuring that all areas are easily reachable for all guests.
No, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns.
No, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns.
No, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns doesn't have a gym.
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