The Walpole Bay Hotel (with intriguing 'and Museum' suffix) is probably not for everyone. A little note given to guests at reception warns not to run the kettle and radiator at the same time for fear of shorting out the circuit. After a walk from Broadstairs to Margate in sub zero temperatures, this is of course the first thing we did, and the punishment was no heating or cup of tea. Confessing our crime brought us into contact with Jane, the Hotel Manager, who reflects the quirky spirit of the hotel and is welcoming and receptive to all the guests.
After a slap on the wrist (literally) and a changing of the fuse we had a great time touring the hotel's museum (basically a collection of stuff from the time of the hotel's heyday, arranged by category - typewriters, hats, dolls etc), the original sprung ballroom and bar and reception areas.
Dinner, chosen from a pretty comprehensive menu of classics, was liver, bacon, mash and onion gravy, cooked exactly like my mum used to make which only endeared me to the hotel further, and the atmosphere of the theatrically styled dining room was enhanced by a party of 50 or so in fancy dress, there for a dinner dance. Even the other guests, not connected to this party were a bit like characters in an Agatha Christie novel.
As the snow fell outside, we retired to a comfortable if chilly room. We were offered hot water bottles but there were enough blankets to stay warm. The rooms were more modern than would be expected (one of the benefits of a visit from Alex Polizzi, the Hotel Inspector), but the shower was tepid and more of a dribble than a gush. Predictably, taps and things have a knack to them, but this isn't something that should put visitors off as it kind of adds to the pleasure.
The breakfast buffet was magnificent, served as an enormous buffet in the dining room, looking out to a snowy land and seascape.
Finally the stay was excellent value at 70 odd quid and I would pay double that for such a quirky and unique experience. Long may the Walpole Bay Hotel and Museum thrive.