THE BEACH HOTEL MINEHEAD

As a professional hotel and restaurant inspector I am often asked to visit places to give them the once over. These invitations are usually issued by the PR person acting on behalf of an establishment, with a view to writing the type of ‘fluff’ piece that one often sees in local magazines and publications, and which I deplore, it is just advertising by another name; in order to safeguard my professional integrity, I always decline such invitations.

However, I was intrigued to learn of the The Beach Hotel, Minehead. It was set up just two years ago as a social enterprise under the umbrella of the YMCA, with a clear aim to assist young people in taking charge and responsibility for their own learning and development, providing training and support with housing and other issues that they face.

In my capacity as Chair of the Somerset Corporate Parent Board, it seemed the perfect opportunity for me to pay them a call, in my own time, at my own expense, using the same objective criteria I would use for a full on inspection, and of course, incognito.

It is at this point I should probably point out that one of my clients has openly said ‘Linda is passionate about standards and customer service, tells it like it is, takes no prisoners, but ultimately gets results.’

My initial experience, from using their website, which needs updating, and trying, unsuccessfully, on a number of occasions to phone them did not bode well for a successful visit.

It was therefore a welcome surprise to find that on approaching the hotel the first impression was very favourable. An imposing, smart, freshly painted building well positioned on the seafront, and right next door to West Somerset Railway. Things were looking up, especially when I managed to snag the only parking space left. I timed my arrival for lunch, hoping to take advantage of the café, which contrary to advertised opening hours, turned out to be closed. Oh dear.

No matter, my enthusiastic greeting from Dave could not have been more welcoming and friendly, which nicely set the tone for the rest of the visit, helped along by fresh flowers and fruit on the reception desk (both a little tired, sadly).

On expressing my dismay at the lack of lunch he promptly offered to see what he could do and I was able to select a haddock and mozzarella fishcake with saffron mayonnaise. Nicely prepared and well-presented, it went down well with a glass of wine, ably served by Ashleigh, who was keen to tell me how the project had really helped her. Feeling quite at home by now it was just a little disappointing that my second glass of wine was different to what I had previously ordered.

Moving on, not only was I able to check in early, Dave also readily offered me a 30% discount for single occupancy of my room, but also offered to carry my luggage while he escorted me; a rare thing in the day and age. This helpful, pro-active approach and willingness to engage with customers made me feel valued as a customer. I was all set for a good stay.

My Deluxe Double Standard room, Hurlestone, which like the rest of the building was tastefully decorated in muted colours, reflecting the seaside location, was very spacious, simply decorated and had a super king sized bed. The bathroom was modern and spotlessly clean. In addition to water and decent tea/coffee facilities, biscuits were also provided. No dressing table though, or a surface from which I could work, using the free WiFi facility. Time for an afternoon nap before dinner. Some information telling me a bit more about the facilities on offer would have been welcome.

The public areas include a small bar in the reception area, with quirky travelling trunks on legs as coffee tables, is rather minimalist, but there are several cosier private areas in which to meet. In the dining room, well laid tables, with crisp white linen cloths, gave a very favourable first impression. The evening menu, changed frequently, is small by most people’s standards, with only three choices for each course. For me, in my professional capacity, this is always a good sign as it means the food is more likely to be freshly prepared to order, and I was encouraged by the focus on seasonality.

Well, they say that the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and I was very impressed. All of the dishes were beautifully presented, with care evident in the preparation. Seasoning was spot on and if I were grading my meal according to AA restaurant standards it would probably have warranted 2 rosettes. There were some slight niggles with service (bread not offered and no enjoyment check) and missed opportunities for upselling, but overall an excellent experience.

·        Seared breast of wild pigeon, pearly barley risotto, sesame condiment, confit shallot

·        Slow roast skrie cod with crunchy lemongrass, coriander and Thai basil crust, Asian potato cake, stir fried vegetables

·        Bitter chocolate mousse with a praline and feuilletine base, served with smoked hazelnut parfait and salted milk ice cream

Unfortunately, an early meeting in Taunton meant that I had to leave before breakfast, which included cinnamon pancakes and smoked haddock, but a good selection of cereals, juice etc. was left out for me to help myself to. 

The total cost for my stay – light lunch, three course dinner, 3 glasses of wine and a deluxe room, just £103.

Is The Beach Hotel perfect, not at all. There is no such thing as the perfect hotel, if for no other reason than that we all want different things from our experience and it is impossible to provide all things for all people all of the time.

Would I stay here again, without doubt. Would I spend my own money here, absolutely. Would I recommend it to others, without hesitation.

Personally, I think that every town should have one.