by Tony Flood
The Hydro Hotel is a very popular East Sussex venue visited by thousands of holiday makers and local residents. But, as it is not on the Eastbourne seafront, many may be unaware of its wonderful facilities.
This was the case with my son James, his wife Gosia and two young sons who live in Hayes, Kent.
But after staying in one of this charming four-star hotel’s luxurious family rooms as bed and breakfast guests, they were delighted to discover what to them was a previously ‘unknown gem’.
James, a 44-year-old product designer, said: “We had a most enjoyable time at The Hydro, which has so much to offer and is only a short walk from the seafront and pier. The facilities, food and drink choices and customer service were excellent. We were particularly impressed with the help provided by duty manager Darren and bar and lounge manager Matthew.
“And the view of the Hydo’s lawn and the sea beyond it is staggering.”
The lawn, on which croquet and mini golf can be played, is part of award-winning gardens, and there is a terrace with sun loungers and parasols plus an outdoor swimming pool.
The Crystal Restaurant serves classic British and French cuisine for evening dining, while an extensive menu is provided in the Conservatory Restaurant including a selection of hot dishes, lighter fayre and sandwiches throughout the day.
A panoramtic sea view adds to the attraction of the Conservatory and there is an outdoor terrace, complete with tables and parasols, making for a lovely spot to eat on a summer’s day or for a pre-dinner drink on a warm evening.
Guests can also enjoy beverages and light snacks in the cosy lounges, and hearty cooked breakfasts are available daily.
Rooms have a Freeview TV, Wi-Fi access and a seating area. They provide a modern bathroom with a hairdryer, and some have views across the English Channel.
Further details about facilities, offers and hotel news are on the website at www.hydrohotel.com.
General manager Johnathan Owen, who has over 20 years experience as a GM in Country House hotels, says: “My passion is to exceed guest expectations by motivating my team members to achieve their full potential. Providing excellent customer service is essential.”
Events manager Laura Robinson plays a key role in arranging lunches with guest speakers or entertainers, including Tom Fitzpatrick, one of the UK’s most exciting swing/jazz and big band singers, and the delightful Swingtime Sweethearts.
The Hydro’s four fully equipped meeting rooms can cater for wedding receptions, conferences and training sessions attended by between 10 to 120 guests. Anderida Writers are among local organisations who meet regularly at the Hydro.
The Orangery, a bright and airy atrium located off the Crystal Restaurant, can be used for private breakfasts, lunches or dinners. The two largest function rooms, The Wedgwood and The Garden suite, both feature sea views and patio or balcony access for delegates.
For more private meetings, the Meads room and Hornsby suite are ideal to host up to 16 people.
The Hydro’s address and phone number is Mount Road, Eastbourne, BN20 7HZ, telephone 01323 720643. There is free on-site parking, and Eastbourne Railway Station is a 20-minute walk away. Website at www.hydrohotel.com.
