Former Londoners and now Kent adoptees, Robert Stone and Alistair Dixon will be revealing a new look for The Bay Tree Hotel in Broadstairs, when they reopen this June following a major refurbishment and extension.
The seafront hotel, which they bought in April 2015, has been extended to include ten en-suite bedrooms, eight of which have sea views, and one room that is accessible to wheelchair users and is dog-friendly.
The couple both had successful careers in London before they took the decision to leave their capital-based homes and jobs to set up a new life in Kent. Since then their natural instinct for hospitality, previous career experience and shared passion for the beautiful local surrounding area has earned The Bay Tree an excellent reputation.
Ben enjoying Westgate-on-Sea. Margate can be seen in the distance #Broadstairs #Thanet pic.twitter.com/lB5Q15MJHE
— Bay Tree Broadstairs (@baytreehotel) April 3, 2017
The decision to introduce a dog-friendly room was based on positive guest comments about their own dog, a Bedlington Terrier called Ben, and the attraction of Broadstairs and Thanet to dog owners from the UK and beyond, with its 32-mile Viking Coastal Trail of sandy beaches, spectacular cliffs and pretty villages.
Our Juliet balcony window frames are now in place. We love the view and the extra light they bring in #Broadstairs #Kent pic.twitter.com/ISkO3AYAoq
— Bay Tree Broadstairs (@baytreehotel) March 30, 2017
Suzy Nina Interiors was brought in to create a distinctive look that mixes unique items from the UK and abroad, upcycled furniture and limited edition artworks. The new look hotel will be influenced by the couple’s travels in India and Europe and the original period features of the 1895 building.
The top floor of our rear extension is now going on #Broadstairs #Kent pic.twitter.com/JqnL6tz7al
— Bay Tree Broadstairs (@baytreehotel) March 23, 2017
Robert said: “Taking over The Bay Tree was a huge lifestyle change for us both and we’ve loved the challenge. Since we took over, we’ve wanted to introduce a style that reflects our own personal tastes. The refurbishment will transform what was a wonderfully located guesthouse into a modern, boutique hotel, with all mod cons and some unique and memorable touches. Guests can expect the same great service they’ve always enjoyed, but in even more comfort.”
Ben has been enjoying the sunny weather in nearby St Margaret's Bay this weekend #Broadstairs #Kent pic.twitter.com/vWViOXTLyn
— Bay Tree Broadstairs (@baytreehotel) March 27, 2017
The refurbishment of the Eastern Esplanade property also extends to a library, bar and a lounge, which overlooks Broadstairs beach and cliffs and the dog-friendly ground floor room.
Another of our newly reupholstered chairs for our sea-facing restaurant #Broadstairs #Kent pic.twitter.com/LtZb7WGnjO
— Bay Tree Broadstairs (@baytreehotel) March 12, 2017
Alistair also plans to open an all-day restaurant offering a bar and a seasonal menu using the very best of Kent’s produce.
Follow the progress
Twitter: @baytreehotel
Bay Tree blog: http://www.baytreebroadstairs.co.uk/blog/