The Carlton Hotel
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Summary of reviewsThe Carlton Hotel offers a charming and budget-friendly accommodation experience right by the seafront in Folkestone, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking to enjoy stunning coastal views and easy access to local attractions. This Victorian-style hotel blends historical allure with necessary amenities, maintaining a quaint charm through its architecture and interior décor. While it might not offer the luxury of higher-end establishments, guests appreciate the clean accommodations and the hotel’s historical charm.
The hotel's prime location is one of its standout features, providing breathtaking views of the English Channel and convenient access to Folkestone's shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Leas Cliff Hall and theatre. Its proximity to the Channel Tunnel and ferry services also makes it an advantageous stop for travelers on the move, complemented by free on-site parking that simplifies exploration of the surrounding area.
Guests commend the hotel's friendly and polite staff, highlighting their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The welcoming nature of the hotel team often leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors.
Comfortable and clean rooms, particularly those boasting spacious layouts and sea views, enhance guest experiences. Though some rooms could benefit from refurbishments to address outdated decor and comfort discrepancies, the accommodations generally offer good value for a short stay. The family-friendly rooms cater adequately to visitors traveling with children, further supported by the helpful and accommodating staff.
Breakfast at The Carlton Hotel receives mixed reactions, though many find the continental offerings to be a suitable and cost-effective way to start the day. While some guests desire more variety, the breakfast service is lauded for its value and the friendly staff who provide it.
Consistently praised are the hotel’s parking facilities, which provide a convenient and complimentary perk for guests, further enhancing the venue’s appeal to budget-conscious travelers. The hotel offers good accessibility overall, though some structural challenges may require consideration for guests with heightened accessibility needs.
While some aspects, such as wifi connectivity and the consistency of bed comfort, invite critique, The Carlton Hotel remains a good option for those prioritizing location and affordability, particularly for brief stays or as a stopover for travelers en route to other destinations. The hotel’s historical character and pleasant service create a welcoming atmosphere that many find appealing, offering both a practical and scenic stay.
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The hotel's prime location is one of its standout features, providing breathtaking views of the English Channel and convenient access to Folkestone's shops, restaurants, and attractions such as the Leas Cliff Hall and theatre. Its proximity to the Channel Tunnel and ferry services also makes it an advantageous stop for travelers on the move, complemented by free on-site parking that simplifies exploration of the surrounding area.
Guests commend the hotel's friendly and polite staff, highlighting their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant stay. The welcoming nature of the hotel team often leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors.
Comfortable and clean rooms, particularly those boasting spacious layouts and sea views, enhance guest experiences. Though some rooms could benefit from refurbishments to address outdated decor and comfort discrepancies, the accommodations generally offer good value for a short stay. The family-friendly rooms cater adequately to visitors traveling with children, further supported by the helpful and accommodating staff.
Breakfast at The Carlton Hotel receives mixed reactions, though many find the continental offerings to be a suitable and cost-effective way to start the day. While some guests desire more variety, the breakfast service is lauded for its value and the friendly staff who provide it.
Consistently praised are the hotel’s parking facilities, which provide a convenient and complimentary perk for guests, further enhancing the venue’s appeal to budget-conscious travelers. The hotel offers good accessibility overall, though some structural challenges may require consideration for guests with heightened accessibility needs.
While some aspects, such as wifi connectivity and the consistency of bed comfort, invite critique, The Carlton Hotel remains a good option for those prioritizing location and affordability, particularly for brief stays or as a stopover for travelers en route to other destinations. The hotel’s historical character and pleasant service create a welcoming atmosphere that many find appealing, offering both a practical and scenic stay.
3-Star Hotel
This sea-facing hotel is located on The Leas, offering great views. It is also conveniently located near the Channel Tunnel Terminal. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the town.
Historic Hotel
Family Friendly Hotel
Business Hotel
Hotel with Parking
Accessible Hotel
Guest Reviews
The Carlton Hotel occupies an exceptional position right by the sea in Folkestone, offering guests stunning views of the English Channel from many of its rooms. This enviable location is one of its standout features, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in coastal beauty and leisurely beach walks. Situated on the promenade, the hotel provides easy access to the town center, conveniently connecting guests to shops, restaurants, and main attractions such as the Leas Cliff Hall and the theatre. Moreover, its proximity to transport options such as the Channel Tunnel and ferry services enhances its appeal for travelers on the move. Guests appreciate the combination of affordability and charm, enjoying a warm welcome from friendly staff. With free parking available on-site, visitors find it easy to explore the surrounding area, making the Carlton Hotel a practical and scenic stop for those venturing to Folkestone.
The Carlton Hotel's breakfast offerings evoke a range of sentiments from guests. Many reviews highlight the good value of the continental breakfast, with several guests finding it adequate and fitting for the price of around £5 to £7.50. The continental buffet includes essentials like toast, cereal, yoghurts, and sliced cheese and meats. For those who enjoy simplicity, the breakfast was often described as light, adequate, and tasty, providing enough to start the day without breaking the bank. Guests also commended the friendly and helpful staff during breakfast service.
However, not all experiences were positive. A recurring theme in the reviews is disappointment over the limited variety and the lack of hot food. Some reviews pointed out that the breakfast was overly basic, others felt it was meager, with few options or items that did not meet expectations. And while some found the continental breakfast decent, many guests wished for more substantial offerings, such as a Full English breakfast, and expressed dissatisfaction with having to pay extra for minimal breakfast choices.
Ultimately, while The Carlton Hotel's breakfast is seen as a cost-effective option by some, others felt that it fell short, prompting recommendations to explore nearby alternatives for a fulfilling morning meal.
The Carlton Hotel offers a mix of experiences when it comes to their rooms. Guests frequently commend the spaciousness and cleanliness of the rooms, with many appreciating the bright colors and well-maintained furnishings. Spacious family rooms and those with stunning sea views receive high praise, enhancing the stay for many visitors. The clean and well-appointed accommodations offer good value for money, often described as tidy, comfortable, and perfectly serviceable for a short stay.
While some rooms have been recently renovated and are described as sparkling clean with cozy interiors, there are notable mentions of outdated decor and worn-out furniture in others. The comfort of the beds seems to vary, with some guests finding them extremely comfortable, and others reporting issues with uncomfortable or damaged mattresses.
The picturesque views from rooms and the warm, welcoming nature of the staff contribute positively to the hotel's appeal. However, noise issues due to thin walls and occasional cleanliness lapses such as dampness, unpleasant odors, and maintenance problems detract from some guests' experiences. All in all, the hotel's excellent location, often with breathtaking views, complements its generally good value for money, though there is a clear indication that ongoing refurbishments and upgrades are necessary to meet the diverse expectations of its guests.
The Carlton Hotel receives mixed reviews when it comes to the comfort of its beds. While many guests praise the beds as being very comfortable, clean, and conducive to a good night's sleep, others have had less positive experiences. Some visitors describe the beds as uncomfortable, noting issues such as hard or lumpy mattresses, protruding springs, and even mattresses that have become hollowed out over time. Despite these complaints, a good number of guests have found the beds to be sufficiently comfortable for shorter stays, and some have even commented positively on the cleanliness and quality of the bedding, which enhanced their overall relaxation. Although there's a noticeable divide in opinions, those who enjoyed the lodging highlight the comfortable mattresses as a significant factor in their pleasant stay.
The Carlton Hotel presents a mix of experiences when it comes to cleanliness, with some guests finding it satisfactory while others are less impressed. A number of visitors appreciated the clean and comfortable rooms, with fresh bedding and spotless common areas enhancing their stay. Many mentioned that the housekeeping staff did an excellent job maintaining cleanliness, even in the dated building. Some rooms stood out with fresh decorations and well-organized layouts, providing a good value for the price. On colder days, rooms were warm and cozy, delivering a snug retreat for key workers seeking a restful night.
Despite these positive aspects, other guests noted significant cleanliness issues in areas of the hotel, such as stained carpets, moldy ceilings, and musty odors in the bathrooms. In several accounts, the hotel appeared run-down, with some parts of the property requiring a thorough refurbishment. Visitors pointed out issues like sticky floors and unaddressed maintenance problems, including non-functional appliances and unsatisfactory water temperature in showers. The property’s overall worn-out condition detracted from the experience for some, making it evident that while certain rooms are well-kept, the hotel as a whole could benefit from modernization and more consistent upkeep.
The Carlton Hotel seems to have mastered the art of hospitality with a consistently high level of service. Visitors have frequently praised the friendly and helpful nature of the hotel's team, making their stay particularly enjoyable. Politeness and professionalism are evident traits among the staff, with many reviewers highlighting the warm and accommodating atmosphere provided by both management and the reception team. The staff are quick to address any needs or problems that arise, demonstrating attentiveness and efficiency. Guests noted how the team goes out of their way to ensure satisfaction, often with a welcoming smile. The hotel's seaside views and great location also contribute to the pleasant experiences recounted by guests, but it's the diligent and kind-hearted staff that stand out in these reviews, setting a positive tone for future travelers considering a stay at The Carlton Hotel.
The Carlton Hotel offers a mixed experience when it comes to wifi connectivity. On the positive side, some guests report excellent and fast wifi, highlighting that it worked as expected and free wifi is available. WiFi is accessible in various spots, including near the room door and even in the bathroom. Additionally, it is offered as a complimentary service, adding value to the guest experience.
However, several guests have encountered issues with wifi not reaching their rooms, with some indicating disruptions and occasional areas where it hardly works. The inconsistency in signal strength is noted by visitors who face difficulties accessing it from certain areas within their rooms, particularly the beds, and some mention it was not included in their room package.
For those planning a stay at The Carlton Hotel, it might be worth checking with the management about specific areas where wifi is available to ensure a seamless connectivity experience during their visit.
The Carlton Hotel is celebrated for its advantageous parking amenities, which consistently garner positive feedback from guests. The hotel offers complimentary parking for guests, a feature that is frequently highlighted as a significant benefit. The parking lot, located at the back of the hotel, is a convenient option for visitors, with ample space that allows guests to park even after they've checked out. Guests appreciate the hassle-free parking process, finding it straightforward to access. The hotel’s superb location right on the seafront, coupled with the availability of parking, adds to the overall allure. Some reviews note that the parking area could benefit from better maintenance, with a few suggesting that the lot is small given the hotel’s capacity. Nonetheless, the general consensus is that the free and accessible parking is a great advantage, enhancing the overall convenience of a stay at the Carlton Hotel.
The Carlton Hotel offers a range of family-friendly accommodations that cater to guests traveling with children. The spacious family rooms are noted for their size and comfort, providing ample space for families with small children. The hotel is conveniently located near the town and shops, making it easy for families to explore local attractions. The staff at the hotel are described as friendly and helpful, enhancing the experience for guests with little ones. Guests find the room cost appealing, especially given that some rates include breakfast, which adds value to the stay. Families visiting Dover ferry port might appreciate the proximity and quiet ambiance when traveling with a baby. While the hotel provides essential comforts for families, it is worth considering feedback on room maintenance and amenities, which could impact the overall family experience.
Situated in a fantastic location near the seafront, The Carlton Hotel offers budget-friendly accommodation ideal for those traveling on a tight budget. The establishment is often described as cheap and cheerful, providing basic amenities without the frills of a luxury hotel. Guests appreciate the hotel for being clean, although somewhat dated, and highlight the good value for money it offers. Many reviews emphasize its affordability, with prices including breakfast, sea views, and parking.
While the hotel might not be suitable for long stays, it serves well for overnight stops, especially for travelers heading towards the channel tunnel. The rooms are generally large and comfortable, maintaining a quiet ambience that lets guests enjoy a pleasant stay. However, some guests have reported noise issues from rooms above, impacting sleep quality.
Overall, The Carlton Hotel delivers what is expected for the price, making it a decent option for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location and basic comfort.
The Carlton Hotel offers a generally accessible environment for guests with disabilities, ensuring ease of movement throughout its premises. Many guests have highlighted the hotel’s good accessibility, noting the ease with which individuals can navigate the area despite its challenges. However, certain accessibility issues have been pointed out, including the absence of a working lift and potential obstacles like narrow stairs. There is also mention of temporary scaffolding, including a pole positioned on the disabled ramp, which may pose difficulties for guests requiring unobstructed access. While some areas of the hotel facilitate movement, these structural aspects could be limiting for those needing enhanced accessibility.
Nestled along the sea front and conveniently close to local shops, The Carlton Hotel stands as an emblem of enduring charm and historical allure in this picturesque town. This Victorian-style hotel, recognized as a Grade II listed building, captures the essence of its era with its beautiful architecture and interior design. Recent renovations have thoughtfully introduced modern touches without overshadowing its historic character, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. While some elements like water pressure might remind guests of its venerable age, the overall maintenance is commendable, ensuring that its distinguished past remains a notable feature. The Carlton Hotel continues to offer guests a unique connection to the town's rich history through its charming and aesthetically pleasing surroundings.
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Location
Breakfast
However, not all experiences were positive. A recurring theme in the reviews is disappointment over the limited variety and the lack of hot food. Some reviews pointed out that the breakfast was overly basic, others felt it was meager, with few options or items that did not meet expectations. And while some found the continental breakfast decent, many guests wished for more substantial offerings, such as a Full English breakfast, and expressed dissatisfaction with having to pay extra for minimal breakfast choices.
Ultimately, while The Carlton Hotel's breakfast is seen as a cost-effective option by some, others felt that it fell short, prompting recommendations to explore nearby alternatives for a fulfilling morning meal.
Rooms
While some rooms have been recently renovated and are described as sparkling clean with cozy interiors, there are notable mentions of outdated decor and worn-out furniture in others. The comfort of the beds seems to vary, with some guests finding them extremely comfortable, and others reporting issues with uncomfortable or damaged mattresses.
The picturesque views from rooms and the warm, welcoming nature of the staff contribute positively to the hotel's appeal. However, noise issues due to thin walls and occasional cleanliness lapses such as dampness, unpleasant odors, and maintenance problems detract from some guests' experiences. All in all, the hotel's excellent location, often with breathtaking views, complements its generally good value for money, though there is a clear indication that ongoing refurbishments and upgrades are necessary to meet the diverse expectations of its guests.
Beds
Cleanliness
Despite these positive aspects, other guests noted significant cleanliness issues in areas of the hotel, such as stained carpets, moldy ceilings, and musty odors in the bathrooms. In several accounts, the hotel appeared run-down, with some parts of the property requiring a thorough refurbishment. Visitors pointed out issues like sticky floors and unaddressed maintenance problems, including non-functional appliances and unsatisfactory water temperature in showers. The property’s overall worn-out condition detracted from the experience for some, making it evident that while certain rooms are well-kept, the hotel as a whole could benefit from modernization and more consistent upkeep.
Staff
Wi-Fi
However, several guests have encountered issues with wifi not reaching their rooms, with some indicating disruptions and occasional areas where it hardly works. The inconsistency in signal strength is noted by visitors who face difficulties accessing it from certain areas within their rooms, particularly the beds, and some mention it was not included in their room package.
For those planning a stay at The Carlton Hotel, it might be worth checking with the management about specific areas where wifi is available to ensure a seamless connectivity experience during their visit.
Parking
Family
3 Star
While the hotel might not be suitable for long stays, it serves well for overnight stops, especially for travelers heading towards the channel tunnel. The rooms are generally large and comfortable, maintaining a quiet ambience that lets guests enjoy a pleasant stay. However, some guests have reported noise issues from rooms above, impacting sleep quality.
Overall, The Carlton Hotel delivers what is expected for the price, making it a decent option for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location and basic comfort.
Accessible
Historic
No, The Carlton Hotel doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at The Carlton Hotel.
No, The Carlton Hotel doesn't allow dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at The Carlton Hotel.
No, The Carlton Hotel doesn't have a gym.
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