What’s the Bay Tree Hotel like?
This stylish seafront hotel is just moments from the bustling town of Broadstairs in Kent. The owners have clearly put a lot of love and effort into renovating this Victorian building and many of the rooms – which are named after types of British wood – have sea views.
How dog-friendly is the Bay Tree Hotel?
Good. Dogs will find some complimentary treats waiting for them at the hotel and a bowl. Pets are not allowed in the restaurant but you can dine with your dog in the lounge bar or the outdoor terrace. Breakfast can also be served in your room if you don’t want to leave your pooch – or are just feeling lazy. There is an additional charge of £10 per dog per night.
Tell me more about the Bay Tree Hotel
There are 10 en-suite bedrooms at the hotel, eight of which have sea views. We stayed in Room 1 on the ground floor, which was perfect for dogs as it had its own enclosed patio garden. The spacious room, called Willow, had wooden floors, patterned curtains and lamps and was decorated in soothing shades of blue and grey to reflect the sea. It had an enormous bed with lovely soft linen and some fine antique furniture, as well as a Victorian-style radiator and wingback chair.
A set of double doors led out on to the private patio, which had low-level fencing and gates on either side. There was also a table and chairs and I imagine the patio would be a lovely place to enjoy a coffee or glass of wine in the summer months. The en-suite wet room was a treat too, with its powerful shower and lush Bay Tree-branded toiletries.
The only niggle for me was the fact the room was opposite the kitchen and the door out to the car park so there was sometimes a bit of noise. But otherwise, the rest of the hotel was great and it was beautifully decorated. Indeed, the library bar was designed by Mina Lima – the graphic prop designers of the Harry Potter films. Look out for the limited edition Potter artwork displayed around the hotel.
What’s the food like at the Bay Tree Hotel?
Lovely. We only sampled the breakfasts – which were delivered to our room because of the dogs – but everything was freshly cooked and delicious, from the poached eggs to the porridge. To place our order, we filled out a little form the night before. The kitchen staff were also happy to make some bacon and eggs for Ernie and Stan – although we did have to pay extra for it.
The hotel also offers evening meals, as well as afternoon teas and Sunday lunches. When we visited, rib-eye steak was on the menu alongside fish and chips and good meat-free options, such as a Moroccan tagine. The desserts – which included a berry crumble and a salted caramel and sponge pudding – also sounded delicious.
Are there resident dogs at the Bay Tree Hotel?
Yes, Bedlington Terriers Ptolemy and Leila, who was just a pup when we visited. The dogs – who are father and daughter – have their own little About section on the Bay Tree website. Here, you will also find a touching online tribute to the original hotel dog, Ben.
Where are the best dog walks near the Bay Tree Hotel?
Stone Bay is literally opposite the hotel and has a vast expanse of sand backed by high chalk cliffs. You do have to go down a steep slope to access it – but it’s worth it. Dogs are allowed most of the year, but there are restrictions from May 1 to September 30. The same rule applies at Viking Bay – the main beach in Broadstairs – which is less than a five-minute walk from the hotel.
For a good leg stretch, try the 2.5-mile beach walk between Broadstairs and Ramsgate. You’ll pass Dumpton Gap on the way, which is a lovely stretch of sandy beach that’s dog-friendly all year round. Be sure to time your walk carefully though as Dumpton Gap gets cut off at high tide. You can still walk between the two towns when the water is in, though. Just head up the cliff to King George VI Memorial Park and keep going.
Broadstairs is also renowned for its links to Charles Dickens, who penned some of his most famous works – such as David Copperfield and Bleak House – in the town. The four-mile walk between Broadstairs and Margate celebrates the life and times of both Dickens and artist JMW Turner. To find out more, click here. For more ideas when it comes to things to see and do with your dog, check out our Ruff Guide to Margate, Ramsgate & Broadstairs.
What Ernie and Stan loved about the Bay Tree Hotel
Having some outdoor space to explore, being so close to the beach, finding a tennis ball under the bed (treasure!)
What I loved about the Bay Tree Hotel
The stylish decor, the seafront location, the private patio
How to book the Bay Tree Hotel
Rooms start from £75, including breakfast. For more information or to book, call 01843 862502 or visit the Bay Tree Hotel website.