The Pier at Harwich is run by my favourite hotel group, Milsom Hotels, a small independent chain based in the prettier part of Essex. Managed for over twenty years by Chris and the very charming Vreni Oakley, this hotel overlooks the Ha'penny Pier at Harwich. As with all Milsom establishments it is the service and attention to detail that makes every visit perfect
I have been visiting the Pier on and off for a few years now and recently it was completely refurbished. The new styling, overseen with impeccable taste by Geraldine Milsom, is effortlessly elegant and comfortable. On arrival the entrance, main bar and bistro area is an airy welcoming space of scrubbed wood with large comfy chairs and table lit by a stunning expensive light system that the staff modify during the day and night to adapt to the atmosphere. From a bright, but not glaring feel during the day as you watch the sun sparkle on the sea just across the road, to a softer, more intimate atmosphere as the evening draws in
Checking in is a pleasant straightforward experience. Particularly for us as we are well know and greeted by name, but having seen other guests arrive, it is clear that the staff treat everyone with the same warmth. In fact the staff cannot be praised too highly, clearly the Milsom group are on the ball when hiring their team. Everyone is helpful and appears both happy and proud to work here. Even though I have stayed in most rooms and know the hotel almost as well as the staff, each time, I am taken to my room by a cheerful employee, my bags carried and various features pointed out to me. One perfect example of the attitude of staff was last year when we treated my mum to lunch there on mother's day and she had to catch a train home afterwards. The taxi we had booked failed to arrive and as time drew closer we began to worry. The receptionist had a quick word with a waitress who then popped over and told us she would give my mum a lift to the station. This was done with no thought or hint for payment of any kind, it was just how the staff behave; it is their priority to ensure that their guests have the best possible time. Exit one very impressed mum!
After checking in I can happily spend hours curled up in the depths of an armchair in the bar reading a book and watching the boats glide past from the large picture windows as I sample the delights of the snack menu. The procedure for ordering from either the bar or bistro downstairs is the essence of simplicity. Selecting from either the menu or blackboard of daily specials is the hardest part. There are so many delicious treats to tempt your tastebuds it can be easier said than done to make a decision. Much of the food is locally caught seafood but meat eaters and vegetarians are also very well catered for. After finally choosing you write your choice on a pad using the stylish pencil (of which I now have a couple at home as they are quite irresistible!) thoughtfully provided on each table then take it to the bar/reception and sit back to await the arrival of what I can guarantee from my experience is always a delightful repast
I must just quickly mention the loos. Ladies will know why we are often let down on evenings out by shabby facilities! The ladies' toilets are a real pleasure to visit; although small (just two cubicles) they are, like the rest to the hotel, absolutely spotless. Along with extravagantly luxurious disposable cloth style hand towels Molton Brown liquid soap and hand cream are provided. It is this little extra luxury that makes all the difference to a necessary duty!
All the rooms are individually designed and all are stunning. There are fourteen rooms categorised into three types; standard (£95.00), superior (£105.00), deluxe (£115.00), plus their Mayflower Suite. Having stayed in all three grades I can say that they are all superb. Some of the standard rooms have only a shower so if you prefer a both it is worth mentioning that when booking. It is the décor of the rooms that delights me. Each one is styled to complement the room shape and the outlook, but they all have the same understated nautical feel. With seagrass carpeting, eggshell painted wooden panelling in natural sea colours, wrought iron lamps and mirrors, charming paintings and ornaments the effect is traditional with a modern twist. Of course the bed is thing when sleeping away from home and these cannot fail to impress. Each room has a large bed with acres of snowy white duvet, huge pillows and a selection of coordinating cushions to complement the furnishings. Underneath the television, which is conveniently situated on a lazy Susan so you can angle the screen towards the bed or seating area, is a well stocked mini bar and tea and coffee making facilities. The tea and coffee are free but the mini bar and snacks are charged for. A lovely touch is the bone china crockery and a darling little teapot so you can indulge in a decent cup of tea
The bathrooms are all are read more
