This is a 3 star hotel which should be 4 star. Extremely clean throughout with friendly and helpful staff. Our double room was spacious and had a balcony overlooking Freshwater Bay. It had a large and very comfortable bed, new and attractive carpeting and had been decorated recently. The bathroom was spotless, fully tiled with plenty of hot water, a bath and a separate shower cubicle. The food was good with plenty of choice, reasonably priced, generous portions, healthy and locally sourced with friendly waiting staff. The Restaurant is well-appointed with sea views and a table is allocated throughout your stay. The only fault was being asked to pay up front for drinks each evening just as we had begun eating our starters, and having the bottle plonked down on the table with a cork screw. It is quite demeaning having everyone hearing not only what you have chosen but how much it cost, and grappling with cutlery, wallets and card machines when you've already paid in advance for all accommodation and the meal. It would be far more normal to settle up discreetly in the bar afterwards or at Reception upon departure. It does make one wonder what type of guests they normally host. We are in our 70's, we had signed a disclaimer and the hotel had our personal and credit card details, our car registration and we only live just across Christchurch Bay, 10 miles away as the crow flies ( but a 50 mile journey by road and Red Funnel Ferry). There was also an immaculately clean square indoor pool with whirlpool, and ladies and gentlemens changing rooms. Free parking is available with a voucher provided by the Hotel in a pay and display area, and there is a discount booking direct with the Albion Hotel for the Southampton Ferry service.