THIS IS NO 1

Number One
South Beach
4 Harrowside West
Blackpool
FY4 1NW
01253 343900

Blackpool’s No 1 place to stay proclaimed the advertising. I travel to the North-West regularly on business and normally stay in a large hotel. It is comfortable but impersonal.
A chance remark and a walk along the prom between meetings on the same bracing day took me past Number One. I called in for a peek and was bowled over. The homely lounge, individually designed bedrooms and a genuine welcome were vital sparks. This is five star with extras. Example, watching TV while having a Jacuzzi in your en-suite bathroom.
Stylish bedrooms and service – even down to the smallest dietary detail – add to the experience. There is even an extensive range of books and a library of DVDs to borrow.
The food is delicious. Breakfast boasts a huge choice, all freshly cooked and served with squeezed orange juice and a selection of herbal tea, if required. There are also five special selections. My favourite is smoked fish with poached egg. Evening meals are also a delight. Devilled kidneys, with a rich sauce, are superb. So is the sea bass. The meat fell off the bones.
Number One South Beach is a superb boutique guest house with a quality modern British restaurant. Give it a try.