The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns Exterior photoThe Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns Room photoThe Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns Restaurant photo
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Check-in
20Apr2026Select date
Check-out
21Apr2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

Hartley Brook Road Clacton On Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, United Kingdom, CO15 3TP
-
Close to Clacton Pier
Great
8.4
/10
4.1
/5

Rooms

The Aviator offers 38 well-appointed rooms, including family accommodations for 2 adults and 2 children. Each room features a king-size Hypnos bed fitted with a Beaumont mattress, crafted to regulate body temperature. Twin rooms are also available for guests seeking additional options.

Location

Located a 7-minute drive from the Marine Parade, the hotel allows easy access to seaside attractions. The Essex Wildlife Trust Great Holland Pits is within walking distance, offering nature trails for guests. The area provides an abundance of local activities for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Dining

The Aviator boasts a renowned pub dining experience, featuring a delicious breakfast range from continental options to a full English breakfast cooked to order. Guests can avail of a 20% discount on food, offering great value on the main and takeaway menus. The hospitality ensures a satisfying dining experience after a long day.

Parking & Connectivity

Free parking is available for guests traveling by car, ensuring convenient access to local attractions. Each room includes high-speed Wi-Fi, allowing for seamless connectivity during any stay. Air conditioning is also provided throughout the hotel for a comfortable visit.

Family Amenities

The family rooms accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children, making it an excellent choice for families. Some rooms come equipped with a sofa bed for added flexibility. This setup is designed to cater to children's needs, ensuring a relaxing family getaway.

Highlights

Location: 7-minute drive from Marine Parade

Rooms: 38 well-appointed rooms available

Dining: 20% on food

Family: Family rooms for 2 adults & 2 children

“This spot impressed me with its cozy, family-friendly vibe near the seaside, especially the hearty breakfast options. The staff's dedication shines through, and the well-kept facilities and outdoor dining areas would suit families well. Its location works nicely, set a short distance from dining spots and local attractions.”
Hotel logo
Anna BlackEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel
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Select your room type

The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Double or Twin Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Bathtub
Twin Room Disability Access
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
2 Single beds
Shower
Family Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub
Double Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Bathtub
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Facilities

The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences
Facilities: Great
8.5/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Free parking
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Wheelchair access
  • Security
  • Smoke detectors
  • Electric vehicle charging station
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Guest Parking

  • Electric kettle

Services

  • Housekeeping

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Bar/ Lounge area

Children

  • Children's menu

Facilities for people with disabilities

  • Toilet for disabled
  • Bathroom for disabled

Spa & Leisure

  • Garden area

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Sink

Self-catering

  • Electric kettle

Media

  • Flat-screen TV

Room decor

  • Carpeted floor
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Dining Onsite

At The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, guests are invited to indulge in hearty British fare that caters to all dietary preferences. The welcoming atmosphere is perfect for families and anyone seeking a relaxing meal after a day of exploration at Clacton-on-Sea.
The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns Restaurant photo

Smugglers Cove

British
Ambiance
Family-friendly, cozy dining experience
Key Offerings
A diverse menu featuring vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Daily full breakfasts are served from 7:00 AM, making it a delightful start to any day.
Reservation
Not needed
Open for lunch and dinner, daily from 11:30 AM until 11:00 PM, and until 10:30 PM on Sundays.

The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns Location

Hartley Brook Road Clacton On Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, United Kingdom, CO15 3TP
Map view
Hartley Brook Road Clacton On Sea, Clacton-on-Sea, United Kingdom, CO15 3TP
Nearby
Store
Tesco Superstore
700 ft
Restaurants
Kfc
3400 ft
London Road 1 Brook Retail Park
Great Chicken
5000 ft
55 Ravensdale
Explore Clacton-on-Sea
Explore Clacton-on-Sea
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Clacton Pier
Clacton Pier
30 minutes' walk
Clacton Pier features amusement rides, arcades, and scenic views, perfect for family fun at the seaside.
Church Of St John The Baptist
Church Of St John The Baptist
10 minutes' walk
A historic church known for its beautiful architecture, hosting regular services and community events.
Saint Osyth Priory
15 minutes' walk
A picturesque priory with lovely grounds, offering insights into local history and serene walking paths.
Martello Children's Zoo
30 minutes' drive
This small zoo features various animals and petting areas, making it a delightful outing for families.
Beach Activities
30 minutes' walk
Clacton Pier Beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports, ideal for thrill-seekers and families.
Walking & Cycling Trails
15 minutes' drive
Regenerate in the lush surroundings with scenic walking and cycling routes available near the seafront.
KFC
13 minutes' walk
Famous fast-food chain serving fried chicken, perfect for a quick meal with casual indoor seating.
Great Chicken
Great Chicken
19 minutes' walk
Casual eatery known for its flavorful chicken dishes, offering a friendly atmosphere suitable for all.
Century Cinema
Century Cinema
25 minutes' walk
This local cinema shows the latest movies in a cozy setting, making it a great spot for family outings.
Princes Theatre
25 minutes' walk
A charming venue hosting various shows, from musicals to comedy acts, catering to a broad audience.
Getting around
City Centre
Clacton-on-Sea29 min  ·  1.5 mi
Airports
London Stansted (STN)116 min  ·  47.7 mi
London Southend (SEN)134 min  ·  55.4 mi
Train
Clacton-on-Sea Railway Station24 min  ·  1.2 mi
Bus
Bus stop6 min  ·  1700 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 14:00-23:00
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site for free.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Breakfast
You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs GBP8.75 per person per day. 
Children & extra beds
There are no cots provided in a room. 
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Number of rooms:
38

Reviews and Ratings

Feedback about The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns from previous guests about their experience.
Review summary
Based on recent reviews
Powered by AI
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, is conveniently located near shopping and retail parks, making it a practical base for exploring the area or visiting family. Guests often praise the modern decor, cleanliness, and comfortable, spacious rooms, some of which include USB charging ports and ample wardrobe space. The breakfast is frequently described as lovely. Some guests have mentioned occasional noise disturbances, but overall, many find it to be amazing value for money, especially considering its proximity to Harwich for early ferry departures.
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Review score
Based on 774 verified reviews
8.4/10
Great
88%
Recommend
Staff
8.9/10
Comfort
8.8/10
Free Wi-Fi
7.9/10
Facilities
8.5/10
Pros
Welcoming staff
Clean rooms
Free parking
Cons
Unanswered buzzer
Guest reviews
based on 774 reviews
8.4/10
based on 2183 reviews
8.4/10
Marc from Germany
Single
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 23, 2026
8.5/10

modern room and convenient location

comfortable bedfree wifiexcellent foodfree parking
the bed was very comfortable. free tea and coffee were provided, a great bonus. i found freeview tv and free wifi. i appreciated the free parking available to guests. the pub across the street had excellent food at a good price.
check-in occurred at the pub. it felt expensive for the location and breakfast was an extra cost.
Facilities
9/10
the hotel offers complimentary parking. guests benefit from reliable wireless internet access throughout the premises. i found the facilities to be well-kept and easily accessible at all times here.
Location
8/10
the hotel is located conveniently near a bus stop. i noticed this offered simple transport options. the area was quiet overnight. it was an advantage
Dining
8/10
the pub opposite the hotel provides dining. i found it easy to get a meal, the food was good. it was also good value. i found a pleasant atmosphere there.
Rooms
9/10
the room included tea and coffee making facilities. it also included a freeview tv. i found the bed very comfortable. i had a very restful night in the clean room
0 Helpful
|
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Matthew from United Kingdom
Family with children
Double Room
3 nights in November 2025
|
Reviewed:January 08, 2026
5/10
nice fooddirty wallsingle beds
the food WAS nice.
i had to find someone in the restaurant to even check in. i didn't get the single beds i asked for either.
0 Helpful
John from United Kingdom
Family with children
Double Room
1 night in November 2025
|
Reviewed:December 29, 2025
8/10

convenient stay

free carparkingcomfortable bed
I appreciated the free car parking upon arrival. The big bed in my room was really comfortable. It was a great place for a night and also to have dinner.
There was noise outside all night. It sounded like pipes.
0 Helpful
Questions of the users
About The Aviator, Formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea By Marston'S Inns
Are there accessible rooms on the ground floor available for guests with limited mobility?
12 November 2024
Yes, there are accessible rooms located on the ground floor.
Is parking available at the location, and is there a fee for it?
4 December 2024
Free parking is available on-site, and there is no extra charge for it.
Can I request a cot for my baby during my stay?
20 January 2025
Cot beds can be provided upon request for guests traveling with infants.
What are the breakfast hours at the hotel?
15 February 2025
Breakfast is served from 7 AM to 11 AM on weekdays and from 8 AM to 11 AM on weekends.
Are the rooms equipped with air conditioning?
25 January 2025
All rooms feature air conditioning for a comfortable stay.
Is there a discount available for NHS workers?
30 March 2025
Discounts are available for customers with a Marston's Card or a Blue Light Card.
Is it possible to check in earlier than the standard time?
22 February 2025
While early check-in cannot be guaranteed, guests may be checked in earlier if the room is ready upon arrival.
Are pets allowed in the hotel?
10 April 2025
Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on the premises.
How far is the hotel from the beach?
5 May 2025
The hotel is located approximately 4.5 kilometers from the beachfront.
Is public transportation accessible nearby for visiting the town center?
18 June 2025
Yes, there is a bus stop located close to the hotel that provides services into the town center.
Does the hotel provide towels in the guest rooms?
12 July 2024
Guests will find that towels are provided in all rooms.
Are there facilities for securely locking up bicycles?
3 August 2025
There are bicycle lock-up facilities available next to the restaurant in the car park.

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