The view from our room overlooking the channel was fantastic, and it could have been the highlight of a luxury experience. However, several issues detracted from the intended stay.
While the lady at reception during check-in was polite, she lacked warmth, leaving a somewhat disappointing first impression. Parking was not available on-site upon revival (council ticket instead). The room, advertised as a "junior suite with sea view" for three people, had surprising oversights: no towel rack and no toilet brush. Such basic amenities are expected at this level of service.
Housekeeping was inconsistent, happening on only two out of four days. We had to explicitly request it to have coffee supplies replenished and the bathroom given a basic clean. This occurred while we were in the room late in the afternoon, making the timing less than ideal. Additionally, we observed that coffee mugs were cleaned in the bathroom sink using hand soap and warm water, then dried with towels—a distinctly unprofessional approach.
The breakfast buffet was substantial if you were particularly hungry, but charging extra for specialty coffee (£22 per person for the buffet, coffee not included) felt excessive. Additionally, the room catering menu had a limited selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, which seemed incongruous for such a prestigious hotel.
In conclusion, you pay first class and get second class delivered.