Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Hua Hin

Afternoon tea at the Centara Grand in Hua Hin was a real treat. The building itself is magnificent. Freshly painted white walls gleaming in the afternoon sun, set against dark polished mahogany doors and staircases. Walking up the sweeping drive you already feel you’re somewhere special, and inside it’s just as elegant. Although my online booking hadn’t filtered through, it wasn’t an issue. Staff were welcoming and unflustered and we were shown to a shaded patio overlooking the pool, watched over by a line of rather splendid grey elephant statues. We chose to share the set afternoon tea as it looked generous and it certainly was. It arrived in an unusual dark wooden presentation box with drawers at either end, each neatly filled with savouries and dainty handmade cakes. A clever touch and nicely done. Everything was fresh and well prepared, and we rounded it off properly with scones, strawberry jam and whipped cream, plus a glass of Prosecco for good measure. We lingered for a couple of hours, sipping tea in the sunshine and enjoying the calm, refined atmosphere. It felt indulgent without being stuffy. If you’re in Hua Hin and fancy a civilised couple of hours in elegant surroundings, this is a very good way to spend them.

We only did a day pass. We have guest in town and it was perfect. Incredible service at the pool, and a wonderful pool. Beautiful grounds, great lounge chairs, good food and all employees were extremely kind and helpful.

Be aware that the hotel is undergoing major building works on either side of the main building which is scheduled not to finish until 2027 which means aotvof noise during the day. They're doing their best to keep things as normal as possible but one of the pools is closed and they have high fencing round a lot of the grounds which spoils it. One of our favourite hotels in Thailand but we won't be back till they've finished all the building work.