Paskins Town House

Review

'A positive, fun experience,' says an endorsement this year. Holders of a gold award from the Green Business Tourism Scheme, Susan and Roger Marlowe run their B&B in two Grade II listed buildings in a conservation area near the sea. Proud of their 'quirky' style, they and their staff 'genuinely care for their guests'. A visitor in 2009 was 'warmly greeted by a young Hungarian receptionist who carried my luggage to a very small room dominated by overpowering black-and-white wallpaper which made me feel dizzy. Quiet at night, it had comfortable bed, excellent information folder.' The bedrooms, all different, include a spacious family room. They have a modern Japanese-style decor; bathrooms have synthetic-free, animal produce-free soap and shampoo. There is an Art Nouveau theme in Reception, the 'comfortable small sitting room with a splendid 1920s/30s gramophone', and the breakfast room (this year's visitors had no complaints about the Rennie Mackintosh chairs). 'The interesting breakfast menu, generous, thoughtfully presented, caters for all tastes.' There are organic muesli, jams and peanut butter, bread from a local independent baker, and the host's cooked dishes include 'full Sussex', 'Hove' ('quieter and more refined'); and a special of mushrooms, chorizo, walnuts and blue cheese. His wife is a 'friendly presence, waiting at table'. Tea and coffee are Fairtrade. Sandwiches and local beers are served in the lounge or bedroom. (Rosemary Reeves, A and VG)