The company running the Grand Burstin in Folkestone has been rated the UK’s worst hotel chain for the eighth year running.

Britannia received a one star rating in most categories, including cleanliness and value for money, in a survey about guest experiences.

It was carried out by consumer group Which? after quizzing 4,000 customers.

Britannia also received only one star for its communal areas, and two stars for customer service.

The budget brand - which costs an average of £58 per room a night - was described as a ‘dirty hovel’ by one guest.

Overall it received a customer score of 37%, compared to Sofitel, which received 86% earning it top place knocking Premier Inn out of first.

It comes after undercover inspectors from Which? found stained towels, stray hairs and pillows ‘flimsier than bookmarks’ when visiting Folkestone's Grand Burstin over the summer.

WATCH the inspection of the hotel room

A germ simulation experiment also demonstrated worrying lapses in cleaning between guests.

The investigation was caught on camera.

Following the release of the video, a spokesman for Britannia told Which?: "We are totally committed to providing a safe environment for visitors.

"We have so far spent around £2 million on Covid-19 precautions, but we accept there is more to do."

The Grand Burstin has a 2.5 rating on Tripadvisor and mixed reviews from guests.

One review from earlier this years reads: "Nice welcome from the receptionist, lovely big clean room with a nice view of the harbour.

"Good shower, ample tea and coffee in the room, reasonable breakfast although could’ve been hotter.

"The hotel itself is a little rough around the edges but it has bags of character, is very well situated in the harbour and the staff are generally pleasant and friendly."

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone