Best Western the Hatfield Hotel

Great service

Most of the staff are lovely and so helpful, however there was a tall man with glasses that I’m assuming is the manager and another taller man who I’m also assuming was in charge, it seemed as though they were extremely passive aggressive to the young girls that were working and it really gave us that uncomfortable feel.

Let's get the difficult part out of the way first: The Hatfield Hotel is an older property with no air conditioning and tired decor. With that said, we loved our stay at the Hatfield Hotel, and would return again in a heartbeat. What it lacks in looks and amenities, it more than makes up for it in three important areas. First, the staff is amazing. Jade checked us in, and provided much information about the sights in and around Lowestoft. The restaurant and bar staff were equally attentive and friendly, and served our meals and drinks efficiently and with a smile. They all seemed to be happy to help in any way, and it was a pleasant change from some hotels where they take everything a bit too seriously. Second, the room was clean and comfortable. We stayed in the Elizabeth Suite, which was bright and airy. It looked out over the beach and had a beautiful view of the North Sea. As the room was east-facing, we had a view of the sunrise--the first light in the UK--and that was quite spectacular. Additionally, we didn't miss having air conditioning as the nighttime temperature was comfortable, and the windows open; but, it would be nice to have a fan to circulate the air and to ensure that the room doesn't get that damp feeling that seems to be all the rage with beachfront hotels. Finally, the bar and restaurant served good and plentiful food and drink for reasonable prices. We enjoyed our meals and our cocktails, and would have enjoyed another day or so at the hotel. Indeed, Lowestoft is off the beaten path, but the Hatfield Hotel is a hidden gem on this road less traveled. Not only is it just a short walk to the shore, it is also the easternmost point in the UK. Definitely worth experiencing.

I come to Lowestoft every year and have stayed in a multitude of AirBnbs. I have always had a great experience. This year, I came with my mother for four nights, so I decided to go for the Hatfield Hotel, just for convenience (or so I thought). I booked online, it wasn't possible to book a twin room so I had to book a double room. The bed is very small for two people, I ended up sleeping on the floor on my yoga mat. The room we were given faces the main road at the back of the hotel. It's a west-facing room so it gets direct sunshine in the evening and gets very hot. You end up either not sleeping because of noise from the road or because of the heat if you keep the windows closed. I came for a break, ended up with severe sleep deprivation. I am not ever going to book this hotel again. It's too much of a risk. Not worth the money.

This hotel is clean but tired. Reception was welcoming, efficient and friendly. The £79 room without breakfast was awful. A tiny stuffy room with the most uncomfortable bed squeezed against the wall. I had the worst night's sleep I've ever had and left at 3 am to drive home and go to bed. I would not recommend this as a place to stay for colleagues.

I always come here for tea and toast to watch the sunrise, or if not, just enjoy whatever the ocean is doing at that time. Staff always attentive and a good pot of tea. I am told it's nice to stay here too. Right on the beach inbetween the two piers. The life guards operate to the right as you come out, so if your swimming, please swim within the flags. Walking distance to the town or opposite way, you can go up and few nice gardens etc to visit.