The Marsham Court was one of the most expensive hotels we have stayed in, but failed to meet the expected high standards. We travelled 300 miles from home and on arrival were interested to have a look at their a la carte menu for dinner. Unlucky! as we hadn't booked 24 hours in advance, that wouldn't be possible. No question of checking if there was a table, we were only offered a bar snack. We also established that the hotel doesn't have an a la carte menu anyway, only a table d'hote. We later realised the reason as the hotel was occupied by coach parties (who no doubt paid very much less than we did). The lifts were old and slow but did work. Our room was very nice with a balcony and excellent sea view. The bathroom was all white and austere but clean. The beds were OK but the pillows were both Dunlopillo and not very comfortable. There is no air-con but although originally missing, a fan was readily produced. Unfortunately, the room was made hotter by the heated towel rail that could not be switched off. Breakfast was on a buffet basis, reasonably well stocked and of good quality. The proudly displayed 'Chef's Homemade Jam ' would however not have threatened the prizes at any local fete. Staff were in general not very helpful or friendly and were not forthcoming with useful suggestions about local restaurants or places to visit . Parking was not a problem during our stay as most guests came by coach, but presumably when there are more independent travellers, could not accommodate all guests. The cost is included when booking direct, but an extra when using travel websites.