Harbour Hotel & Spa Sidmouth

We had dinner at the restaurant, lovely setting, however, the service was awful. Several requests made more than once, and to top it all, a 35 minute wait for coffee. Food was average at best. And with higher than average prices you would expect better, and it wasn't even busy. They need a maitre d to organise the restaurant.

Booked a table in the restaurant for two couples both celebrating wedding anniversaries. Both couples travelled a long way to the Harbour Hotel, and when we arrived we found that despite booking a table, there wasn't actually a table reserved for us at our booked time. We were told (in a not very pleasant tone) that it was actually "first come first served" regarding seating, and so, why then, did we have to book? After that disappointing start, we were then told that we could sit at a table next to the bar rather than in the restaurant (not ideal and certainly not very 'special') but then we had to wait .. standing somewhat awkwardly .. for the table to be cleaned and laid up, and with four chairs arranged around it for us. We contented ourselves with the situation as it was a celebratory meal, but the manner of the young man who attended to us was quite alarming .. it bordered on rude - he is most definitely in need of some front of house training regarding addressing guests. We ordered our meal, and we all actually enjoyed our lunch .. it was good. We were, however, reluctant to pay the service charge when the bill came, as there hadn't actually been a great deal of 'service' This hotel is in a wonderful and unique location and it's certainly appears to be a high class establishment. We were very badly let down that day, and very disappointed that our findings didn't come up to our high expectations of this very prestigious hotel. We had hoped to reserve a room for a future visit, but sadly that isn't going to happen now. As a retired M&S training facilitator of many years, I would strongly suggest some urgent attention to this hotel staff's attitude to their guests. A hotel's reputation hinges greatly on their staff's ability to enhance the experience of guests' dining and staying. Customer fronted industry is extremely difficult .. I know first hand .. but only with the correct staff with an ability to make guests feel special, no matter what the circumstances, will an establishment gain a first class reputation and not receive reviews like this. We didn't deserve to be treated with such contempt. We will not return, nor will we recommend, which is such a shame, as the hotel is rather nice.

Being local, we have visited on previous occasions and been very disappointed with the service. We thought we would try once more for dinner as it was a beautiful evening and the views can’t be beaten. We are so glad we did! Service by Dillon and Libby at the bar was excellent - quick and friendly (and the best passion fruit martini I have ever had!) The lady who served us in the restaurant (apologies as I didn’t get her name) was really friendly and the food was excellent. Well done to whoever has sorted the appalling service of the past - we will definitely be back!

I really like the hotel especially the spa. The food was fantastic and very fast to arrive. The parking was easy, staff were lovely, rooms were sensational.

We have been staying at The Harbour for many years. We love the size of the rooms and the restaurant and bar. Staff are always helpful and friendly.

The hotel was situated on the sea front with the beach over the small road The rooms and staff and dining were all better than the star rating

We had a one night stay while travelling to the area, although we found the hotel very good we found that the bedroom was extremely small with a double bed, the room would have been more suitable to a single bed, the pillows were all the same giving no choice as to the type of sleeping arrangements, on a positive note we would stay again but maybe choose a different style of room. The staff went above and beyond to make sure that we had everything we needed.

Great hotel, excellent room, super breakfast

Unfortunately the room was not serviced while out for the day so no fresh towels,sheets,water t bags etc etc which spoiled a great hotel trip