On arriving at the Hotel we was greeted by very friendly reception staff, who offered all the help and assistance we required without asking. We had gone to Bournemouth to meet up with a friend at the nearby Wessex Hotel 50 metres away, but I felt the tarrif was too high so booked the Connaught instead through Booking.com at £45 for the night. We was so pleased we had done so, the connaught was a period property and had been refurbished to a good standard retaining it character. the room was of a high standard and so was the on-suite.
We did visit the Wessex in the evening but found it a pretty clinical establishment without any redeeming features. The only thing I felt lacking was the fact of no tea or coffee making facility in the room.

I can't understand the negative reviews for this hotel (every one has an opinion) as my wife and I found every aspect of the hotel excellent - From walking through the door on the Red Carpet to a very warm and effecient welcome from the reception - check in was very quick and all in order with everything explained. We stayed in the Lodge and as its location was explained on the website, we expected the short walk from the main hotel. Room was very clean and comfortable. Gym and Swimming pool were an unexpected addition and added to the visit. The food in the resteraunt and bar were top class. the New Year's Eve Ball very well presented with excellent food and entertainment. We found all the staff friendly, helpful and a credit to the hotel

This was our second Christmas at the Connaught under new management. During a period of eight Christmases at the Connaught we saw it go from good to bad. Returning after a long break it is certainly on the up once again and the best we have ever found it. A few compliments would not go amiss. Our room was kept spotless during our stay - the restaurant is exceptionally well run; the food top rate. The bar staff work pleasantly and tirelessly. Not forgetting front of house - nothing is too much trouble and everything is done with a smile. The management and general staff had control of the whole Christmas. Seeing the same staff again this year is a credit to management. The only flies in the ointment - no coffee following dinner and such a shame the young DJ on two nights played the most inappropriate music for a room full of guests - average age 60. It was so loud it was impossible to talk. The DJ was such a lovely lad and when he did eventually pull out of the bag some golden oldies at 11.15pm on his first night the floor was full. Unfortunately he was playing to an almost empty room. Please sort this out for next year David. Can't wait to return next Christmas and meet up with old friends. S & B Croydon

I spent Christmas here at the Connaught with my whole family, the youngest being my 4 year old daughter, and the eldest, my Grandad who is a grand old 92... there was so much thought put into making it a special place for each and every one of us. Whether it was Father Christmas and his grotto on Christmas morning for my daughter, or the excellent food that was never ending over the 4 days; the Wii competition on Christmas eve for the younger adults or the nightly entertainment in the lounge for those of us who still had a little energy left in us at the end of the day.... But what made it really special were the amazing team of staff, led by Paul. Nothing was overlooked, everyone was incredibly friendly and welcoming, they made it a Christmas to remember. I will be returning as I am sure many others will be too.