A tranquil yet trendy stay by the Essex coastline, Sophie Rocks drops her anchor at the Roslin Beach Hotel for a night of gourmet reclining in Costa del Southend
The Only Way is Essex. Or so they say. After getting stuck in immobile traffic for almost four hours, I can safely say that I’d have preferred any other route than the way to Essex.
But once I’ve navigated my way to Southend-on-Sea and manoeuvred through its BMW-brimming streets, I finally make it to the cloudless Thorpe Bay seafront. And, shortly after, the busy carpark of the Roslin Beach Hotel.
From the offset, it’s a tidy, well-manicured building – housing 59 rooms and a trio of opulent suites. I step over the threshold and into the stylish reception, and it’s here that a first impression is really made.
Recently furbished, an extensive makeover has turned this luxury Essex hotel into a true oasis.
The downstairs hallways are covered in flamboyant wallpaper, with cool, inviting wicker chairs. Everywhere I look, there’s some sort of foliage – it’s like walking through a trendy botanical garden.
I adore it immediately, and with the added bustle of guests arriving for a Friday night getaway or dinner, it has the vaguely vibrant feel of a Miami hotspot.
The Room
A quick walk up the staircase leads me to my room for the night, a large, airy space flooded with light thanks to high ceilings and large double doors.
These open out to a small but scenically-pleasing balcony, with views that stretch across the sea horizon. When the doors are wide open, the sound of laughter filters upstairs from the below restaurant and terrace.
A chic coastal theme can be found in every nook and cranny. Duck blue bespoke furniture, teal walls and relaxing design details create a room that prompts you to put your bag down, exhale and forget about the daily madness for a while.
As always, the minute details count the most. Fresh flowers, a gentle breeze and luxury pillows will have you avoiding the alarm and choosing a long, blissful snooze instead.
The bathroom’s fully equipped with powerful rain showers and pampering toiletries. Don your robe (and a face mask) for a night of soothing self-care.
The Food & Drink
If you’re a foodie, The Roslin Beach Hotel restaurant is bound to impress. As well as an AA Rosette, it’s one of only 100 restaurants to win a Visit England Rose Award – an accolade that recognises venues going above and beyond for their customers.
The staff are friendly, and helpful too – expect plenty of dish recommendation and tips, especially if you’re a seafood fan.
Guests can either dine inside the elegant space or when it’s warmer, sit outside on the terrace to bask in the sun.
On the main stage, expect headline culinary acts in the form of Essex Lamb Sirloin, Beer-Battered Cod and Seared Sea Scallops.
Throw caution to the wind (or waist) and make sure to try a dessert – the Eton Mess with locally-grown strawberries is especially good.
There’s also an additional vegan menu with a three-course selection of artistic plant-based bites – but avoid disappointment by warning them ahead of time to make sure they’ve ordered the ingredients in.
Breakfast is served in a separate beautiful room decked out like a bride in delicate white flowers (which is hardly surprising as weddings are a frequent fixture here).
They cover the walls like Instagrammable ivy, hanging from the ceiling and climbing up the corners of the pretty space.
Wander down to the sight of tables topped with awaiting coffee cups and a buffet filled with classical English fare – pastries, hot options, and plenty of fresh fruit.
Another table offers different types of fresh bread to cut, as well as another with granola bowls and nuts.
A la carte plates can be ordered for an additional cost – but there’s plenty to whet your appetite without them.
What to do
1 Stroll along Thorpe Bay’s seafront to admire Southend’s Pier (you might even spot neon-clad joggers along the way). Extending 1.34 miles (2.16 km) into the Thames Estuary, it’s also the world’s longest pleasure pier.
3 Master the art of paddle boarding and don your wetsuit for a morning of standup yoga or a beginner’s crash course. wetndrysup.com
The Wordrobe Verdict
With beautiful decor that’ll have you relaxing in no time, this seafront stay is worth shelling out for. Make the most of the Roslin Beach Hotel’s coastal ambience and dine the night away at this glamorous Southend hideaway.
Make it happen
Where: Thorpe Esplanade, Thorpe Bay, Essex SS1 3BG
Wallet: Rooms from £99 per night, based on two people sharing.
How: Click here or phone to make a booking.
Words by Sophie Ritchie, editor
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