Best Western The Sea Hotel

We have stayed at this hotel many times as we have family in the area. This hotel is in the perfect position for shops, beach, parks, etc and there is ample parking available. Our most recent stay has been completely different to previous stays: there is a layer of dust on our bed head, the ledge under the radiator in the bathroom and the surfaces dividing the dining room. There are what looks like tea or coffee stains down the front of the sink unit in the bathroom, plastic tags cut off new clothes were on the carpet in the bedroom and also the bathroom. There was lipstick on one of the cups on the table we were shown to at breakfast (which was changed - but no apology) and my poached egg was not cooked. We wonder if the hotel has reduced the number of staff so they no longer have the capacity to clean to the expected standard. We’ll give the hotel another try, because it is perfect for us - but that may be our last stay…

The hotel room was absolutely filthy, the bathroom had the strongest smell or urine. It was boiling hot - I asked for a fan & begrudgingly the receptionist gave me theirs as it was the only one they had. I complained to booking.com & to the hotel - was told I would get a call from the manager & I am still waiting. The plug socket was hanging off the wall in the bedroom. It was hotter in the room than outside! There were hairs in the bathroom that were not mine, there was rubbish in the bathroom that had not been cleaned from the previous occupant. And the smell of urine was disgusting. There was also black mould around the bath & the shower tray was dirty. Stains on the carpet, the walls & the furniture. I would not recommend this hotel to stay - it is a health hazard & the staff clearly don't care or do their jobs correctly. So dissatisfied & disappointed.

My first time in South Shields, ergo here, and a fleeting visit. I was only staying one night, room only. I'd picked it based on its location. It's in a great spot, close to town, the shops, beaches, park, Colmans (both of them), I thought it ideal. Partic with the free parking. I was a little concerned on arriving to see the big fun fair next door, envisaging some noise problems, but this wasn't the case. Re my room, it was what I expected from a 3*. I think they're the workhorses of the hotel trade, and it's not like you should be expecting luxury... But mine, facing the park, had all I needed. A comfy bed, great bathroom, TV, workstation, T & coffee, a fan (to make up for no aircon), what more do you want. I was only here one night, but I'd have had no problem staying a week, or more. But above all, I found it clean and well presented. And that went for the common areas too. Yes, in my room there's the odd ding, scuffs on some of the furniture, a wall, but how many people may've gone through it. I've seen hotel reviews with 5*'s in London with the same issues. All in all a pleasant stay. And when I needed something, the staff were friendly, helpful, and on hand. I am looking to revisit the area, and if I do, I'll definitely be booking here again.