HISTORIC waterfront hotel and restaurant business The Pier at Harwich has been awarded its fourth AA star.

The new rating for The Pier, which is part of Milsom Hotels and Restaurants, identifies it as one of the best performing hotels in the region in terms of professionalism, high standards and consistency.

Paul Milsom, chairman and managing director of Milsom Hotels and Restaurants, said: “We are all delighted that The Pier at Harwich has received a fourth AA star.

“The fourth star is a testament to all the hard work, drive and enthusiasm exhibited by every single member of staff at the hotel. We are really pleased that The Pier has been recognised by such an established and well respected guide.”

The Pier at Harwich, located on the town’s historic quayside, became part of the Milsom family’s collection of hotels and restaurants in 1978 and has become a popular venue both locals and visitors to Harwich.

It now features two restaurants, The Harbourside Restaurant and the Ha’penny Brasserie.

The Harbourside Restaurant, located on the first floor with fine views of the Stour and Orwell estuaries, specialises in seafood while the Ha’penny Brasserie (named after the nearby Ha’penny Pier which, in turn, takes its name from the toll of half a penny originally charged to users) provides everything from breakfasts and morning coffee to lunches, afternoon tea and dinners.

The hotel has 14 individually furnished guest bedrooms, some in the main building which dates dates from the 1850s, when the pier was also built, and others in Angel public house next door which dates from the 18th Century and was acquired by the hotel in 2000.

Milsom Hotels and Restaurants is this year celebrating the 60th anniversary of its formation with the acquisition of Le Talbooth in Dedham in 1952.

The group also now includes Milsoms and the Maison Talbooth, also in Dedham, and Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, near Ipswich, together with Talbooth Catering.