Coastal hotel in Kent re-opens after £1.4m makeover

The hotel was closed in January and has undergone 10 weeks of renovation work. The building was formerly known as the Fayreness Hotel, but Shepherd Neame renamed it to reflect its coastal location.

Shepherd Neame chief executive Jonathan Neame said: “We are thrilled to unveil this exciting new development overlooking Botany Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in Britain.”

Makeover​

The remodelling of the building allows the hotel to make the most of the coastal views, with two orangeries replacing UPVC conservatories at the front and the addition of a wrap-around deck allowing guests to sit outside.

The brick exterior of the hotel has been fitted with traditional Kentish weatherboarding, and features a new area for walkers to wash their boots, as well as a bicycle park.

The Botany Bay Hotel’s 30 ensuite rooms have all been refurbished using natural sand and blue-green colours as well as artwork of local scenes to fit with the coastal setting.

The main bar area has been divided into comfortable seating areas and sports a new look. A coffee lounge and fireplace have also been introduced to the area.

New facilities and dining​

In a bid to improve access for disabled guests, level access has been established in most trading areas and ramp access and a powered door has been introduced at the main entrance.  The hotel has a bedroom with enhanced accessibility, including a wide door, large floor space, grab rails in the bathroom and a lowered bath, and there are two dedicated parking spaces for disabled guests.

A panoramic-view restaurant will serve á la carte menus featuring British cuisine with a contemporary twist and focus on seafood. Guests will also be able to order traditional pub meals in the hotel bar and the hotel aims to use only locally sourced, seasonal produce such as Romney Marsh lamb, Whitstable oysters and Dover sole.

There are two function rooms available, the Club Room which can accommodate up to 40 guests, or the Kingsgate Suite, which can cater for up to 100. This has panoramic sea views, a private bar and a dance floor and is licensed for civil wedding ceremonies.

Local boost​

As a result of the investment, 15 new jobs have been created at the hotel and more employees are expected to be taken on during the summer season to cope with increased demand.

Neame said: “This significant refurbishment is not just about investing in the hotel, but also the coastal area of East Kent. We have created a significant number of new hospitality and catering roles and the presence of a stylish destination hotel will provide a boost for the local tourism market too.

“We are confident that with its new look and new name the Botany Bay Hotel will prove a popular choice for local residents to enjoy a drink or meal, and also an attractive venue for short breaks, weddings and functions.”