Please select your travel dates to see rates and availability
Check In
Check Out
1 room2 guests1 room, 2 guests
Info
Summary of reviewsPark Inn by Radisson Palace is a highly regarded three-star hotel located in a prime seafront position in Southend-on-Sea, offering stunning views of the Thames Estuary. It provides convenient access to popular attractions like the beach, Adventure Island amusement park, the pier and various shopping and dining venues. The central location, coupled with spacious rooms and excellent cleanliness standards, makes it a popular choice for families and vacationers.
Breakfast at the hotel is often celebrated for its quality, variety and freshness, catering to different dietary requirements. Guests particularly enjoy the buffet-style offerings and the beauty of a sea view during breakfast. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the dining experience, although some issues with food temperature organization and occasional shortages have been reported.
Dinner experiences are more mixed. While some guests appreciate the quality of specific dishes and the reasonable prices at the bar, there are frequent complaints about long wait times, prioritization of large parties over individual diners and lack of menu variety. Some reviews also mention cleanliness and ambiance issues in the restaurant.
The rooms at the hotel are generally spacious and comfortable with many featuring large balconies that offer beautiful sea views. However, inconsistency in housekeeping and maintenance detracts from the overall experience with common complaints about dated furnishings, stained carpets and various functional issues. The need for refurbishment and better housekeeping standards is a recurring theme.
Cleanliness throughout the hotel receives mixed reviews. While some guests find their rooms spotless and well-maintained, others report significant issues such as dirty carpets, moldy bathrooms and unpleasant odors. Communal areas also appear to need more attention with reports of dirty corridors and outdoor spaces.
The hotel staff are widely praised for their friendliness, helpfulness and welcoming demeanor, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience. The gym is another positive aspect, described as well-equipped and clean, providing a nice bonus for fitness enthusiasts.
The hotel is family-friendly with amenities such as spacious family rooms, play areas and child care services. The staff's attentiveness to children and the location's proximity to fun attractions make it a suitable choice for families.
Nightlife around the hotel is vibrant with a lively bar and easy access to local pubs, clubs and a nearby casino. However, guests should be prepared for some noise, particularly on weekends and during local events.
The beds receive mixed feedback with some guests finding them comfortable and spacious, while others face issues with hard mattresses, lumpy pillows and cleanliness concerns. The overall sentiment suggests that while the hotel offers good value for a three-star establishment, there is considerable room for improvement in several areas to enhance the guest experience. Show more
Read review summaries for all categories
Categories
Dog Friendly Hotel
This hotel welcomes dogs of any size for an additional fee of £20 per pet, per night. Pet-friendly rooms are located on the second floor. Well-behaved pets may be left unattended in the room. The hotel provides food and water bowls for pets. The hotel is also near the beach.
Business Hotel
This hotel offers 7 meeting and event spaces with views over the River Thames. It has a maximum capacity of 300 people. They also provide free Wi-Fi and high-quality audiovisual equipment. Park Inn by Radisson's Meetings & Events are developed with you in mind, offering a fresh and attentive experience from start to finish. It offers a business center and a ballroom.
Hotel with Parking
This hotel offers ample parking, 137 guest suites, and is near the beach. It is known for creating memorable moments with its facilities.
Accessible Hotel
This hotel is in the centre of Southend-on-Sea, opposite the Southend Pier and amusement park. It offers modern rooms, a lively bar and grill, and an on-site gym. The hotel offers step-free access to public areas and accessible facilities in the main restaurant and bar.
3-Star Hotel
Located on the beachfront, this hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms within walking distance of Southend's central area. It is near Adventure Island and Southend Pier, making it ideal for tourists.
Hotel Taking Steps Towards Sustainability
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Hotel with Gym
Room Types
Standard RoomThis room features an en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and tea/coffee making facilities.
Standard Room with Sea ViewThis double room features a sea view, an en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and tea/coffee making facilities.
Family RoomThis family room has an en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and tea/coffee making facilities.
Superior RoomThis larger double room features slippers, an en-suite bathroom with free toiletries, a flat-screen TV with Freeview channels and tea/coffee making facilities.
Guest Reviews
6.8
Rated
Location
The Park Inn by Radisson Palace offers an exceptionally well-regarded location, a recurring highlight in numerous guest reviews. Positioned perfectly on the seafront in the heart of Southend, it provides stunning views of the Thames Estuary and easy access to key attractions. Guests frequently praise its proximity to the beach, Adventure Island amusement park and the pier, making it a convenient choice for families and vacationers. The hotel's central position also places it near various shopping and dining options, as well as being within walking distance of Southend's train stations. Many reviews highlight the spacious rooms, friendly and helpful staff and excellent cleanliness standards. This combination of a prime location and welcoming atmosphere makes it a favored choice among visitors looking to fully experience Southend-on-Sea.
Breakfast
The breakfast at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace offers a mixed experience with a significant number of reviews highlighting its many positive aspects. Guests have noted the excellent quality, variety and freshness of the food with options catering to different dietary requirements including gluten-free and vegetarian. The buffet style allows for a plentiful selection of both hot and cold dishes with particular praise for freshly cooked eggs and the availability of a beautiful sea view during breakfast.
The friendly and attentive staff contribute significantly to the positive dining experience and many guests find the breakfast delicious, superb and a joy with a lot of variety. Some mentioned the breakfast as one of the highlights of their stay.
However, there are also criticisms regarding the breakfast. Issues such as cold food, inconsistency in quality and specific items like sausages and eggs not meeting expectations are pointed out. Some guests felt the breakfast was chaotic or disorganized with occasional shortages and delays in replenishing the buffet. The perception of value for money varies with some finding the price too steep for what is offered.
Overall, while many guests enjoyed and highly recommend the breakfast at Park Inn by Radisson Palace, the experience can be variable, suggesting room for improvement in consistency and organization.
Dinner
The dinner experience at Park Inn by Radisson Palace showcases a mix of positive and negative feedback from guests. On the bright side, many guests found the food to be good with some meals like the fish and chips and the Friday lunchtime buffet receiving specific praise. The bar area received a nod for being reasonably priced and offering good entertainment. The service, particularly from staff like the bar manager Clair, was highlighted as professional and friendly. Some guests appreciated the restaurant staying open late to accommodate them and enjoyed the variety at breakfast.
However, there were several challenges noted by guests. Many reviews pointed to issues with delays in service with some diners waiting over an hour for their meals. There were also frequent mentions of the restaurant being closed or prioritizing large parties and events over individual guests. Several guests commented on the restaurant’s cleanliness and ambiance, describing it as basic, utilitarian and sometimes uninviting. Issues with menu availability and food temperature were also recurrent with some guests finding the food overpriced and the menu lacking in choices.
Overall, while some guests had enjoyable dining experiences, the restaurant service seems inconsistent, suggesting room for improvement in both efficiency and ambiance.
Rooms
The rooms at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace offer a mix of experiences for guests. On the positive side, numerous guests have praised the rooms for their spaciousness and size, providing ample room to relax. Many rooms feature large balconies with stunning sea views, perfect for enjoying the scenery. Cleanliness receives a nod in several remarks, highlighting that some rooms are tidy upon arrival with clean towels and well-maintained bathrooms. Comfortable beds also add to the overall positive experience for many guests. The superior rooms and family rooms are often noted for their extra space, making them ideal for larger groups or extended stays.
However, there are significant areas where the rooms fall short. A common complaint is the dated and worn-out condition of the rooms with many mentions of stained carpets, tired paintwork and old furniture desperately needing an update. The housekeeping seems inconsistent with several guests reporting rooms that were not cleaned properly or had cleanliness issues such as cobwebs, dirty carpets and even some unpleasant odors. The lack of basic amenities like extra pillows, wardrobes, mini-fridges and adequate working air conditioning or heating systems also detract from the overall comfort.
Additionally, some functional issues were frequently mentioned, including non-operational windows and doors, faulty air conditioning and heating units and various maintenance problems like leaking showers and malfunctioning sinks.
Location and views are consistently highlighted as one of the best features with the hotel offering beautiful panoramas of the sea and easy access to local attractions. Nevertheless, while the size and location of the rooms are commendable, the need for refurbishment and better housekeeping standards are recurring themes that could considerably improve the guest experience at this hotel.
Beds
The beds at Park Inn by Radisson Palace receive mixed feedback from guests. Many find the beds to be comfortable with some describing them as big and comfy or even fabulous. Certain rooms have spacious, comfortable beds that enhance the overall stay. However, there are also numerous complaints about discomfort. Issues like hard mattresses, lumpy pillows and beds that are worn out or uneven have been noted by several guests. Additionally, there's a common mention of having only one pillow per guest in rooms, which many found inadequate. Instances of cleanliness problems related to bedding, such as stains and hair, were also reported. Overall, while some guests had a good sleep experience, others faced significant discomfort.
Cleanliness
Nestled in a prime location, Park Inn by Radisson Palace offers a range of rooms that are generally spacious and can be quite neat. Some guests found their rooms spotlessly clean and mentioned the beds being very clean and comfy. Clean towels were also frequently available, which is usually a positive note for travelers seeking basic comforts.
However, the overall cleanliness of the hotel appears to be inconsistent. Many reviews pointed out significant issues with the carpets in both the guest rooms and communal areas, describing them as stained, filthy and in need of replacement. The rooms often showed signs of wear and tear with old fixtures, tired decor and some reports of cobwebs. The cleanliness of bathrooms was another common concern with reports of black mould, rusty showers and dirty sinks. Some even mentioned unpleasant odors and dusty surfaces.
Communal areas like corridors and balconies largely matched the condition of the rooms, often being described as dirty and run down with discarded food and rubbish adding to the disarray. The windows and outdoor areas were frequently noted for being particularly dirty with some guests even encountering bird droppings on balconies.
Despite some praise for the size and comfort of the rooms, many guests felt the hotel's cleanliness and maintenance required urgent attention, suggesting that a refurbishment would greatly improve the overall guest experience.
Staff
At the Park Inn by Radisson Palace, the consistent praise for the hotel staff stands out in the guest reviews. The team is largely described as friendly, helpful and welcoming, creating a warm atmosphere for visitors. The reception staff, in particular, are frequently noted for their efficiency and pleasant demeanor, often going above and beyond to accommodate guests' needs and resolve any issues. Bar and breakfast staff also receive commendations for their attentiveness and professionalism. Despite a few isolated criticisms, the general consensus highlights the staff's positive impact on the overall guest experience with many guests appreciating their cheerful and supportive nature.
Wi-Fi
The wifi experience at Park Inn by Radisson Palace varied significantly among guests. Many found the wifi to be very strong, easy to connect to and even great, allowing seamless connectivity. It appeared that certain features, such as connecting phones to the TV with specific apps or using Chromecast, were well-received. However, several guests mentioned issues like the internet being inconsistent, spotty or slow at times; some even faced situations where there was no wifi service in their rooms throughout their stay. Improvement of the wifi service would certainly enhance the overall guest experience. Additionally, there were suggestions to provide easier access to hotel information, hinting at a preference for old-fashioned paper information or an easy-to-access digital welcome pack. Despite the mixed reviews on wifi, the reception staff was noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, ensuring guests' queries were promptly addressed.
Gym
The gym at the Park Inn by Radisson Palace is frequently highlighted by guests for its quality and convenience. Many guests appreciated that the gym is well-stocked and features a good range of equipment, making it suitable for various workout needs. The cleanliness of the gym has also been positively noted, reflecting well on the hotel's maintenance standards. Additionally, the gym staff received commendation for their excellent service. While some reviews mentioned the absence or the small size of the gym, the overall sentiment leans towards a favorable experience with this facility being described as very good and a nice little bonus for fitness enthusiasts staying at the hotel.
Family
Park Inn by Radisson Palace stands out as a family-friendly hotel in a central location, perfect for those visiting with children. Kids will find plenty of activities to enjoy, particularly given the hotel's proximity to fun attractions like Adventure Island and local theaters. The family rooms, often spacious and with sea views, provide ample space for children to play, contributing to a relaxed stay. The hotel offers a child-friendly environment with a play area at the reception, child care services and high chairs available at breakfast. Additionally, some reviews highlight how staff are particularly great with children, going the extra mile to make occasions like birthdays special.
Families appreciate the value for money, especially with perks like kids eating free at breakfast. Despite some concerns like smaller bathroom sizes for families of four and occasional noise from other guests, the overall atmosphere and amenities tend to meet the needs of family visitors well. The attentive and friendly staff at the front desk add a welcoming touch, enhancing the overall experience for guests of all ages.
Nightlife
Situated in a bustling area, the Park Inn by Radisson Palace offers a vibrant nightlife experience both within and around the hotel. The hotel's lively bar, open until late, is a popular spot praised for its great views and good atmosphere, making it an ideal place for evening drinks and socializing. Guests appreciate the fun nightlife in the immediate vicinity, easy access to clubs, pubs and bars and the hotel's prime location near the sea front, restaurants and pier.
While the area is great for those who enjoy nighttime activities, it's important to note that it can get quite noisy, especially on the weekends. Events such as charity boxing matches and open-air discos add to the lively ambiance, though they can contribute to noise disturbances. The nearby casino offers another option for late-night entertainment, while the occasional Saturday night can be particularly loud with cars and bikes adding to the din.
Despite some noise issues, the hotel's nightlife aspect remains a highlight for many, contributing to an overall fun and lively stay for those looking to enjoy the local scene.
3 Star
The 'Park Inn by Radisson Palace' is a solid three-star hotel that meets the expected standards for its category. With a great location, it’s perfect for a three-star stay offering basic amenities and good value for money. While the hotel is functional and serves well for short stays, it does need some upgrading as many areas look tired and worn. The decor is dated and the property is in dire need of refurbishment. Overall, it offers an acceptable experience for the three-star rating, though it doesn't compare favorably with other Radisson hotels. Communal areas, especially the carpets, appear dirty and tired, indicating the need for thorough renovation. Despite these shortcomings, it retains the charm of a grand old property and presents a reasonably good option within its rating category.
Business
Park Inn by Radisson Palace proves to be a solid choice for business travelers, offering a range of amenities and services tailored to suit corporate needs. The hotel boasts well-equipped meeting and conference rooms, establishing itself as a reliable venue for business gatherings. The availability of Wi-Fi suitable for business use further enhances its appeal.
Located close to the business district, the hotel’s strategic location on beautiful Lisburn Avenue provides convenient access for those attending meetings or working nearby. It stands out as a one-stop shop for eating, sleeping, training and working, making it a practical base for business travelers.
Despite minor drawbacks such as non-functional room service extensions, lack of safe boxes for documents and the absence of a specific business center, the hotel's business facilities generally receive positive feedback. It offers ample amenities required for business activities and is directly close to the train station and university, adding to its convenience.
However, some reviews note that the rates might be considered costly and the hotel could benefit from additional staff to enhance service efficiency. Nonetheless, Park Inn by Radisson Palace is recognized for providing reasonable services, positioning itself as a comprehensive business hotel with all necessary support amenities for corporate travelers.
Accessible
Park Inn by Radisson Palace provides a mixed experience for guests with disabilities but shines in several key areas. The hotel boasts an accessible entrance and offers adapted rooms along with ramps and accessible parking, meeting general accessibility standards. Guests appreciated the accessible facilities and the fact that everything they requested was available, including accessible showers and rooms of good size.
However, certain challenges were noted, such as occasional elevator malfunctions and some tighter corners that might impede movement. While the hotel's location near Adventure Island, shops and nightlife is a highlight, maneuverability within the hotel and using a mobility scooter can prove difficult for some.
The helpful staff, notably Lily and Danny, received praise for their efforts to assist guests with disabilities, including arranging mobility scooters and alternative rooms when necessary. Despite a few drawbacks, such as an awkwardly placed ramp and some rooms lacking specific accessibility features, the overall accessibility of the hotel area is commendable. The rooms are described as aptly sized, making overnight stays comfortable for wheelchair users and others with accessibility needs.
Dog Friendly
The Park Inn by Radisson Palace stands out as a welcoming destination for pet owners, especially those traveling with dogs. Numerous reviews laud the hotel for its accommodating stance towards dogs, providing amenities such as dog beds, water bowls and even dog treats in rooms upon arrival. The hotel's dog-friendly staff receive consistent praise for making both pets and their owners feel at home.
Common areas of the hotel are open to dogs, fostering a pet-friendly atmosphere throughout the establishment. This ensures that dog owners can relax and enjoy their stay without worrying about their furry companions. Some guests even noted the availability of dog sitting services, further enhancing the convenience for pet owners.
However, not all reviews are entirely positive. There are mentions of additional charges for bringing dogs, which might not sit well with every guest. Some concerns include occasional disturbances from barking dogs in neighboring rooms and lingering smells. Additionally, dogs are not allowed in the restaurant, limiting mealtime options for those traveling with pets.
Overall, despite some minor drawbacks, Park Inn by Radisson Palace is generally recommended for its hospitable environment and ample facilities catering to dogs, making it a suitable choice for travelers with pets.
No, Park Inn by Radisson Palace doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Park Inn by Radisson Palace.
Yes, Park Inn by Radisson Palace welcomes dogs.
Yes, parking facilities are available at Park Inn by Radisson Palace.