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The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

4.0 star property
Inn in Clacton-on-Sea with a restaurant and a bar

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

Daily full breakfast (GBP 8.75 per person)
Exterior detail
Property entrance
Garden
Double or Twin Room, Accessible | 1 bedroom, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Bar

Explore the area

View in a map
Brook Park, Valley Road, Clacton-on-Sea, England, CO15 3TP
  • Place, Princes Theatre
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Clacton-on-Sea Beach
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Jaywick Martello Tower
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Airport, London (SEN-Southend)
    ‪72 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Double or Twin Room

Double or Twin Room | 1 bedroom, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Double or Twin Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(22 reviews)
  • 215 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for Double Room

Double Room | 1 bedroom, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Double Room

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(59 reviews)
  • 215 sq ft
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Double or Twin Room, Accessible

Double or Twin Room, Accessible | 1 bedroom, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Double or Twin Room, Accessible

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(14 reviews)
  • 215 sq ft
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Family Room

1 bedroom, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi

Family Room

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(18 reviews)
  • 215 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Double Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Clacton-on-Sea

Located within 2 miles (3 km) of Princes Theatre, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns places you within a few miles (5 km) of West Cliff Theatre. This 38-room, 4-star inn welcomes guests with a restaurant, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.
View more Inns in Clacton-on-SeaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Princes Theatre - 4 min drive - 1.7 miles
  • Clacton-on-Sea Beach - 4 min drive - 2.1 miles
  • St. Osyth Beach - 9 min drive - 4.9 miles
  • Jaywick Martello Tower - 9 min drive - 4.9 miles
  • Ipswich Waterfront - 38 min drive - 34.0 miles

Getting around

  • Clacton-on-Sea Station - 3 min drive
  • London (SEN-Southend) - 78 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Smugglers Cove - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Skinners Fish and Chips - ‬17 min walk
  • ‪Costa Coffee - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Subway - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

Inn in Clacton-on-Sea with a restaurant and a bar
The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns features free WiFi in public areas and a garden. A stay here includes free parking.
Guests can expect free WiFi and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Bathrooms offer hair dryers and free toiletries. Coffee makers and desks are also standard.

Similar properties

View from property
Esplanade Hotel - Clacton On Sea (Beachfront Hotel) by OYO
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Restaurant
7.6 out of 10, Good, 264 reviews
$54 nightly
The price is $64
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Total with taxes and fees
Esplanade Hotel - Clacton On Sea (Beachfront Hotel) by OYO

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Daily full breakfast available 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM for a fee: GBP 8.75 per person
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Garden

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with digital channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Iron/ironing board on request

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2:00 PM; Check-in end time: 10:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
The host will greet guests on arrival
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Fee for full breakfast: approximately GBP 8.75 per person

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 2:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Smugglers Cove Marston's Inns Inn Clacton-on-Sea
Smugglers Cove Marston's Inns Inn
Smugglers Cove Marston's Inns Clacton-on-Sea
Smugglers Cove Marston's Inns
Inn Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns Clacton-on-Sea
Clacton-on-Sea Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns Inn
Inn Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns
Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns Clacton-on-Sea
Smugglers Cove Marston's Inns
Smugglers Cove by Marston's Inns
Smugglers Cove Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns provides free cancellation on some room rates. To learn more, look at the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

As of Feb 9, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns on Feb 15, 2026 start from $56.72, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What can I see around The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

Based on positive ratings, guests enjoy the inn's location in Clacton-on-Sea, which is close to Princes Theatre, West Cliff Theatre, and Clacton Pier. You'll also find Clacton-on-Sea Beach and Jaywick Sands within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the inn.

Does The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns include a casino at the property?

No, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

No, there is no indoor pool at this inn.

Is The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns good for couples?

Couples will appreciate amenities like a bar, a restaurant, and a garden at this inn.

Does The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns have a hot tub?

No, this inn doesn't have a spa tub.

Does The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns serves a full breakfast each morning for a surcharge from its restaurant.

Does The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns.

Does The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this inn.

Where is the closest airport to The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

The closest major airport to The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns is London (SEN-Southend), which is about 25.5 mi away.

Can I book a room with a balcony at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns?

No, at The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns, there aren't any guestrooms that list a balcony.

The Aviator, formerly Smugglers Cove, Clacton On Sea by Marston's Inns Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 471 out of 799 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 210 out of 799 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 83 out of 799 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 18 out of 799 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 17 out of 799 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.6/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Jonathan

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Nice room clean and everything you need. My only complaint was the mattress it was awful just how I imagine that a prison mattress would be.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Rafina

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Holes in the walls , mold in the toilet not clean at all the bed was so uncomfortable as they pushed two singles together
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tracey

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jake

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chanell

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Russell

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Andrew

Traveled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Not a good experience

Check in staff were helpful, but apart from that not a very good experience. The room was not well maintained. There was a big brown mark in the bottom of the toilet, towel rail was broken, cobwebs throughout, walls all scratched, hair in the plug hole, kettle scaled up, lightbulbs not working.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Michael

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Room was clean and newly decorated. Bed was very comfy. Quiet area, but good sound insulation anyway. Safe car-park visible from window. Reasonable menu for breakfast and evening meal. Maybe benefit from a small magnifying mirror in bathroom for ladies makeup?
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rooms are fantastic, the pub serves amazing food and staff are super. Cant recommend enough
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jo-Ann

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was very comfortable and clean. Tea & Coffee was ample. Just got a snack from the restaurant and the food was excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joyce

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property was very clean, comfy beds, short walk to the Aviator but the bathroom could do with updating as it was very smelly and tired looking.. I would definitely stay again though and recommend it to family and friends.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Sarah

Traveled with group
Disliked: Cleanliness
The room was comfortable but the cleanliness was very poor. We were kept awake by people running back and forth outside the room. Next morning there were drug/gas bottles in the car park.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Paul

Liked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Jayesh

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Georgina

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Lovely staff, the bed was really comfortable and the breakfast was freshly cooked - so much better than the usual heat tray types.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

James

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Bibi Mariam

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Thomas

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Simply cannot complain at this pricepoint for 2 adults and 2 children (double and 2 single beds). Large, well lit carpark immediately outside and check in is in the pub/restaurant. Room was quiet, bathroom was fine, beds were ok. Cant complain and would stay again. (Note:Aviator pub/restaurant has bad reviews which put us off and so we ate elsewhere but... it was absolutely heaving all evening so the locals cant be wrong. Would try eating there next time)
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Mariella

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Clean Room, Helpful Receptionist, Aircon worked, Shops nearby
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Terry

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

steve

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
A regular stay for us Lovely as always Room could do the some TLC
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

GERALD

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jean

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy to find, separate from pub so nice and quiet, very safe
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

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