Felixstowe: Seafront hotel restored to former glory – with a modern twist

A computer-generated image of how the new Fludyer Arms wil look at night when it is completed. (Image: Archant)

Contractors have been working on all aspects of the new boutique hotel, bar and restaurant being created at The Fludyer Arms Hotel, including the addition of an impressive modern-design three-storey extension at the side and rear of the property.

But everyone has been waiting for the front of the property to be unveiled – with the demolition of the much-criticised 1960s wood-clad front extension.

Now this has been removed, the hotel’s frontage has been restored to its former glory and how the stunning Edwardian building would have appeared when it opened in 1903.

New windows have been put in and the whole building re-pointed, and the interior remodelled to create the 14 letting rooms, kitchens, bar and restaurant areas.

A first-floor balcony will run all the way round the outside, and the lighter brickwork where the front extension was removed should rapidly weather and darken and look the same as the rest of the building.

Phil Hadwen, acting chairman of the Felixstowe Society, said: “The developers have done an absolutely wonderful job. It makes you realise what superb architecture we have in Felixstowe and we should fight like mad to protect it.”

The project is being developed by husband and wife entrepreneurs Tim and Julie Yeo, who already run the Café Bencotto and The Alex in Felixstowe, in a joint venture partnership with a local development company.

The couple have a reputation for upmarket restaurants with excellent food and a knack of knowing exactly what is required with great insight.

The Yeo Group said the new Fludyer Arms is set to open in the spring and staff recruitment is already taking place, including chefs, kitchen porters, night porters, housekeeping staff, duty manager, front of house supervisor, and bar and waiting staff.