The Pier at Harwich

Hotel review

The port of Harwich is a must-see for history lovers; the Mayflower ship was built here and it was also home to its Captain Christopher Jones. This iconic 1864 waterfront hotel was built to accommodate passengers for the Continent. Gerald Milsom, Founder of Milsom Hotels bought the property in 1978 having visited Jimmy's Harbourside Restaurant in Boston and it is now recognised as one of the best places to stay in East Anglia. Rooms are split between the main building and The Angel next door which has seven bedrooms and a large sitting room, perfect for an all-inclusive house party for 14 guests.

The Pier has 14 bedrooms in total, each of which are individually designed to highlight the stunning seascape. Expect big fluffy towels, Elemis bath and body products and plugs galore make a stay here relaxing and totally stress-free. A special mention must go to the huge and wonderful Mayflower Suite in The Angel which has windows the length of the room overlooking the harbour; Gerald was right when he said it was the room with the best views in East Anglia.

It's worth staying at The Pier just for the glorious sunsets over the Stour estuary but there's much more to this charming hotel than that. Most of the staff have been here for more than five years such is their love for the place and they are charm personified and many are local with exceptional local knowledge. Head upstairs to the restaurant between 7-8 in the evening and watch and hear the bell being run upon the arrival of the ferry boat, a tradition that has been in place since it opened.

The brasserier-style restaurant on the first floor is modern and bright (the hotel was renovated in 2016) with a tantalising menu which will satisfy even the trickiest of eaters. Lobster, mussels, crab and salt and pepper squid are just some of the favourites. The all-day menu of modern British classics changes on a regular basis making the most of local seasonal produce and catch of the day. Watch the boats come and go during the day and enjoy the twinkling evening lights by night, whichever table you choose you'll have an estuary view.

On the ground floor is NAVYÄRD bar with terrace next to the working harbour. Popular with the locals it serves cask ales, craft beers, cocktails and an extensive and eclectice Gin Library. The perfect spot for sea-lovers, Gin-lovers, foodies and history-lovers, The Pier is a breath of fresh air.

Lulu Townsend Review published: 21/10/2024