Helen, I've always liked the Imperial, on Van Iseghemlaan, a slightly old fashioned, but comfortable, hotel, easily walkable from the train station

I've been a couple of times to Ostend with National Holidays. We stayed each time in the Royal Astor :- http://www.royal-astor.be/website%20uk.htm

Here are our reviews (the other review is my friends ) http://www.holidaytruths.co.uk/reviews/belgium/ostend/royal-astor-hotel/

It's nothing fancy but is very central both for the bars/restaurants at one end of the small side street the hotel is on, and the beach is at the other end within a minutes walk.

Sorry both - I didn't mean to be rude. I don't know how I missed these posts. Thanks for the recommendations