We recently stayed at the Bonchurch Manor and would return without hesitation. We were pleased to find a hotel of this standard that took children under the age of 12 and looked welcoming and tasteful. And it was exactly that. Our bedroom was very large, as was the en-suite bathroom. The decor is simple/elegant/ethnic which only added to the relaxing atmosphere. The food was superb - I challenge anyone to find a better english breakfast and the South Indian cuisine was delicious. The service was of a high standard and even when the restuarant and bar were closed on Sunday, we were able to get drinks and coffee late at night in the lounge. I am surprised by the negative comments that have been made about this hotel. I would recommend it to anyone and look forward to returning soon.

Alison Schur, Reigate, Surrey

We were very surprised at Clive Aslet's comments about the rooms. We had a marvellous room, furnished in style completely appropriate to the ambience of Bonchurch Manor - light, airy and uncluttered. And why would anyone want a bottle of water in the bedroom, when there was an unlimited supply from the tap?.

Derek Done, Marlow, UK

I'm also a regular visitor to Bonchurch Manor. Why? Because it's not like any ordinary seaside hotel - Clive Aslet is right in that respect.And also about the Southern Indian cuisine. Although the Tiffin Room is not open every evening (Shuba does deserve some time off!) there are other local eating venues - right next door is a homely French style pub with al fresco dining (the home-made pizzas are also worth a mention!).
The standard of the rooms at BM compares favourably with other hotels I've stayed in and they are reasonably priced considering you get an organic breakfast thrown in. And who needs bottled water - tea and coffee making eqpt and a television are quite functional enough for me!
It's a seaside experience with a cultural twist - relaxing in the beautifully maintained gardens that extend along the front of the villa - having tea or sipping drinks before getting ready for one of Shuba's delicious Indian dishes - Mmm! I'm wishing I was back there already.

Anne Jagger, London, England

I posted my comments yesterday on this website and they do not appear to be listed with the others. Seeing I have stayed at Bonchurch several times over the last couple of years I feel it is important that my comments are added. The atmosphere and service is excellent. The family make you feel welcome and the 'Manor' has a very nice aura about it. The location is idyllic and therefore it does not matter what the weather is like. The food is second to none and the breakfast in the morning prepared as requested is also most enjoyable. On each of the occasions that I have stayed it makes me feel alive and refreshed and able to tackle the hustle and bustle of London. I will continue to visit the 'Manor' all being equal at least 1-2 times p.a. I have referred the 'Manor' to both family and work colleagues to visit and will continue to do so. For people who do not propose to go back it's their loss.

Sandra Davidson, London,

We enjoy coming to this hotel often and have stayed in several rooms there. The only time we have had to stay in the smaller rooms at the back was when all the other large and airy rooms were booked and that is pretty much till the end of September, as we found out !! The decor is variable and the price charged (£42 pppn) was fine, as we have stayed in smaller rooms for a higher price in other parts of UK. We suspect that just the breakfast they serve would cost them a good portion of the room price !

So I was a bit surprised to read Mr Aslet’s comments which I thought was unfair and too sweeping. It would be nice if journalists spent more time listening to and writing about the stories behind these small businesses so that they are supported rather than nit picking on minor issues.

Ivetka, London,

We had a very pleasant stay here recently. Our room was perfectly adequate and had a very comfortable bed. Agree with Clive about the food - although we also had some excellent meals locally. The wine list was good value.
Bonchurch itself was a fascinating place and we will return.

Douglas Belton, London, UK

I have stayed at bonchurch manor several times with my husband and friends and found it a refreshing change from the stuffy,bland,stuck up boutique hotels we now find every where. With staff more concerned with how they look than good service. Everyone needs to start some where and we thought they have done exceptionally well for having no experience of the hotel trade. Staying with them was akin to visiting family although you did have to pay for the experience. The cost was reasonable and nothing was too much trouble for them to do for us. I guess at the end of the day it comes down to personal preference, we will definitely be staying again it seems to get better each time.

K.Fleary, London,

I can only say mr. evans went to the wrong place

I have been going to BornChurch Manor For the last three years on short breaks and i have been throughly pleased with
with the service provided By Shuba and mark , I always get this home from home feeling. I have alway enjoyed the south Indian Cuisine cooked by shuba and the family breakfast in the morning.

Garfield Trusty, Crystal Palace,

Although I agree in principle with Clive's review and the southern Indian food is delicious, the menu does not change and guests staying for three nights may wish that there was an alternative menu.

The rooms leave something to be desired and our bed was certainly past its sell-by date.

The service was pleasant.

Jill Coningham, London, UK

Oh dear. You'll be in trouble for writing a review with any criticism at all. I wrote one, which agrees 100% with this one, and got a bucket of acid in response.

Kay Ties, York, UK

Have to disagree with your review about Bonchurch Manor.
We stayed there with the current owners about three years ago only to find they did not do evening meals, nor did they do the Southern India food. We ordered poached egg on toast only to have it served up on a full sized white dinner plate running round the plate alone looking very pathetic and not very appealing. With the food being poor and the room awful no way would we visit again.

B. Evans, Osterley,