An unexpected hotel chain has just been crowned the best in the United Kingdom, according to a major consumer survey. The Coaching Inn Group, which operates 36 individual hotels across the country, secured the top spot after a panel of 4,631 customers shared their verdicts earlier this month.
Intrigued by the result, I embarked on a journey to experience it for myself. My trip involved a train ride to Sheringham, followed by a cycle through the stunning North Norfolk countryside, culminating at the Manor Coastal Hotel and Inn in the picturesque village of Blakeney.
A Stay Full of Character
My first evening at the Manor was anything but dull. The hotel's lights abruptly cut out, prompting a swift response from the staff. After a brief restoration, the darkness returned, and the flickering continued until the team conceded defeat, opting for the warm, atmospheric glow of candles. Combined with the sound of a howling wind battering the windows, the effect was surprisingly cosy, a testament to the unpredictable charm of a rural retreat.
This minor incident pales in comparison to the hardship the Manor endured in December 2013. A devastating storm surge forced thousands in Norfolk and Suffolk to evacuate their homes, causing riverbanks to burst and houses to collapse into the water. The damage was estimated at a staggering £1 billion.
"It happened so quickly," recalled Sophie, a member of the Hill family who has worked at the Manor for years. She showed me the high-water mark left as floodwaters rushed through the bar. "We weren't fully open again until the following summer." The hotel's remarkable recovery from this disaster set the stage for its current success.
Location and Unforgettable Staff
Today, the Manor Hotel sprawls across a generous plot, featuring tranquil stone arches, a trickling fountain, and enchanting walled gardens dotted with ancient mulberry trees. It offers 36 rooms, with the most affordable starting from £99 for a classic, clean, and comfortable budget option. For a more luxurious experience, The Mulberry Suite provides the space of a small flat, complete with a living room, kitchenette, and two bathrooms.
However, the rooms are not the primary reason for the Manor's award-winning status. The two standout features are its idyllic location and its exceptional staff.
Blakeney is a truly lovely village. The River Glaven flows just metres from the hotel's front door, winding its way through a National Nature Reserve. A word to the wise: borrow a pair of wellies from the front desk before exploring, or risk soggy shoes and muddy trousers. The area is famous for its seal colonies at Blakeney Point, and for history enthusiasts, the nearby Langham Dome offers a unique glimpse into its WWII past as a training ground for anti-aircraft gunners.
For me, the real magic of the Manor lies with its people. This is the true secret behind its high score and loyal clientele. Many staff members have been there for over a decade, with a significant portion belonging to the Hill clan, including Tore, Karen, Sophie, and Wayne. Their personal touch and deep knowledge of the local area were evident throughout my stay. This genuine warmth transforms the hotel from a simple place to sleep into a homely destination you actively want to return to.
The Final Verdict
With an average room rate of £128, the Manor isn't the cheapest option. Yet, in the Which? survey, it was one of only two hotels to score four out of five stars for value for money—the other being Wetherspoons. Having recently visited a Spoons hotel in Canterbury, where rooms can be as little as £55, I noted a distinct difference.
While Wetherspoons offers vibrant energy and incredible value, the Manor delivers something different: a stay that feels premium without the luxury price tag. From the tasteful interiors and spacious rooms to the breathtaking natural surroundings and wonderfully attentive staff, every element feels meticulously considered. It is a hotel that has not just survived adversity but has thrived, fully earning its title as the UK's best.
