Devonia Express

We have stayed in lots of Eastbourne B&Bs over the years but this one was exceptional, Caroline & Terry were so hospitable and friendly. Room perfect, breakfast perfect ...couldn't ask for better, for our 50th Wedding Anniversary.

After our warm and friendly welcome we made our way to our room(9) which was spacious, well appointed and clean with a great sea view. A good nights sleep was followed by a large buffet breakfast which set us up well for the day. An enjoyable stay at a lovely hotel.

Sadly the Devonia has gone from its traditional family run guest house, to an ‘express hotel! Although ‘new owners/managers’ were very friendly, sadly I need more than that…an English breakfast was what i’d booked, with previous landlady, but although plenty of food, I’m not keen on a buffet with not much space to organise what you want, cheap bread & even having to make your own Tea/coffee…tables not cleared till everyone had gone? My bedroom was a small double, but for 3 nights I had no room attendances, bin full, basin, toilet not cleaned, no clean cup replacements (done that myself, along with top ups) I was only thankful that it was agreed I paid price by previous owner. I wish them well, but after many years, I’ll be seeking out something new!

Beware! This hotel is going to become an express hotel. The following is an extract from an email I received from them. “Starting August 1st, we're transitioning to an express hotel that won't provide breakfast” I was due to arrive August 10th for three nights. I booked this in March and my booking included breakfast. Now, to give someone three weeks notice is absolutely unacceptable. Single accommodation in Eastbourne is mostly booked up now or the ones available, not to my liking or beyond budget, with just three weeks notice. They should have honoured the booking, arranged another hotel or an alternative nearby location, for breakfast. They did offer me 10% off the booking, which I declined as I specifically wanted breakfast each morning, of my three night stay. Consequently, I’ve cancelled my stay and booked another seaside location outside of Eastbourne. My new accommodation includes breakfast! Not only have they lost my business, Eastbourne has as well, on this occasion. The final bit. I purchased advance return train tickets for this trip. Combined total was only £11.82. I asked Devonia would they refund me if I cancelled my booking, prior to actually cancelling it. They went all quiet on me and didn’t reply. In fact, I didn’t get a reply to either of the two emails I sent them. Fortunately, my booking agent who arranged my accommodation refund, also refunded my train fare, even apologising for the poor experience. Next time I’m in Eastbourne, which is 2-3 times a year, I’ll be sure to avoid this place.

Had a fabulous stay at the Devonia. I was very late arriving and the staff kindly waited for me. Nothing was too much trouble. I will definitely stay there again 😊

Hotel was clean and very friendly and helpful.Have only run hotel for 3 weeks so the breakfast wasn’t what I expected would of liked a cooked breakfast as detailed but was basic cold food and toast.

I spent a lovely Easter weekend at this guesthouse, and was given a lovely spacious room on the first floor, having been upgraded as there were few guests staying there. Carolyn, the host, was lovely, and couldn't do enough for me. I came down each morning to a fantastic breakfast with lots of fruit on offer, to set me up for the day, and on Easter morning she came in with an Easter egg for everybody. I will definitely stay there again!

A very convenient place to stay to explore the area. 10 min walk to the pier, just across the road to the beach. The host was very polite and friendly, the room was very clean and plenty of room and had a sea view. Breakfast was excellent with a good choice.

I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Devonia. The hosts Terry and Carolyn Jane were so warm and welcoming. Spotlessly clean with excellent food and a real comfy room, I highly recommend this B&B if you are thinking of visiting Eastbourne. The location could not be better, overlooking the seafront but within easy reach of all that you would require. More than happy. Thank You!!!