My family (2 adults, 2 children) were warmly welcomed at the Gladwyn. Upon arriving, we were immediately offered cold drinks. We were asked about our plans, and if we needed any advice, or directions. I've never stayed in such a friendly place.

The hotel was very clean and comfortable. We had reserved a large family room - a great bargain. Breakfast was delicious.

Most importantly, my children loved this place and say it's their favorite hotel. We stayed here after a very tiring week in London, and the kids were worn out. They enjoyed the dogs, the breakfast, and some of their favorite DVDs in the lounge. They felt very welcome here - not ignored or seen as possible nuisances.

When we checked out, we had to leave much earlier than breakfast . The owner had said that we would be left a little something in the hallway. We were amazed to find a large bag of food - enough for breakfast AND lunch, including chocolate cell phones! I will never forget this kindness and feel terrible that it took me so long to write this review.

My wife and I have just returned home after a four night break to celebrate our third wedding anniversary at the Gladwyn. We have nothing but praise for this superb guest house. The owner Paul, manager Frank and Linda the housekeeper gave us the warmest welcome we have ever experienced anywhere in the world! Even the three resident dogs are the friendliest canines around.

On arrival we were welcomed with tea and coffee and chatted with Paul for a while in the very comfortable lounge while our room was made ready. We had arrived earlier than expected but the housekeeper went out of her way to make sure our room was spotless. Paul even offered to lend us DVDs to watch in our room as the weather outside was horrendous with rain lashing the windows. He even recommened a fantastic Italian restaurant for our evening meal, just a few minutes walk away and rang them to ensure there was a table available for us.

When it was time to go to our quarters, Paul carried our very heavy bags up the stairs (poor thing) and on the way we took in the numerous eclectic paintings, sculptures and wall-hangings which adorn the walls.

We were staying in the Mark Rothko room and when Paul let us in the vibrant colours and paintings were just as in the pictures we had seen on the website. Everything was spotlessly clean and we had a great view over Devonshire Park which is home to international tennis tournaments.

Beverage-making facilities were provided with a range of teas and coffees as well as hot chocolate and biscuits. There was a flat screen television and DVD at the end of the bed which came in handy due to the rain.

The bathroom was spacious with toilet, bath and shower and the mirror above the basin had lights built in around the sides to help shaving and make-up application. Sealed plastic tooth cups ensured maximum hygiene and we were amazed to find that shower caps, shoe shine sachets, emery boards and a range of shampoos had been provided free of charge. A lovely bathroom rug was evident as well as a non-slip mat in the bath.

When it was time for bed we were pleased to find that it was beautifully quiet which enabled us to leave one of the windows open as the rain had by then stopped. We slept soundly and felt extremely refreshed the next morning.

We made our way down to breakfast at 8.00 the next morning. Breakfast is available between 8 and 9.30 and takes place in a vibrant but tastefully decorated breakfast room. A table was laid with a fantastic selection of cereals: muesli, bran flakes, fruit and fibre and corn flakes. There was also a selection of yogurts, grapefruit segments and prunes! Several juices were available including orange and apple. After helping ourselves, we sat at one of the tables looking our onto the lovely patioed garden which encompasses wooden tables with umbrellas, neat borders and several sculptures. Exquisite background music helped our food to go down.

After a little while, Paul the manager introduced himself to us and asked if we would like the full English breakfast to which we replied we would have the full works, plus coffee, tea, toast and jam/marmalade. When it arrived we realised we would not have to eat until well into the afternoon. Bacon, fried or scrambled egg, sausage, mushrooms, tomato and hash brown. Various sauces were available on request.

What more can I say about the Gladwyn? Only that it has given us an excuse to visit Eastbourne on a regular basis, which is why we have booked up for September. Our search for accommodation in this lovely town is now over forever.

It is all the more poignant for my wife and I as last year we had an awful experience at a Brighton guest house on our second anniversary and had to return home early. Rest assured that the the hospitality the staff offer at the Gladwyn will tempt you to extend your stay.

Well done and thanks again Paul, Frank and Linda. See you in September!

PS: Thanks for the loan of the umbrellas!

First the good points: easy parking, the hotel was not too expensive, the lounge was comfortable and the breakfast was ok.

The bad points? No welcome at all and a third world room. Yes, the room was clean - but it was tired and frayed.

Not a nice experience at all.

I was most surprised that it was so dreadful because of all the rave reviews on this site and in the 'comments book' in the lounge.

Don't go there.

Just back from 2 nights at this excellent smallish B & B Hotel. Parking was easy - right outside. The owner (Paul) and the manager (Frank) could not have been more helpful,
The rooms were very clean and well appointed. The traditional English Breakfast was superb - no need for lunch.
Very helpful information was available on "where to dine" and it was correct.
The Gladwyn is in a quiet road just five minutes level walk to the sea front with local shops nearby.
We shall return.