The Royal Hotel

The Royal Hotel was originally built as a coaching house back in 1832 and -- after receiving visitors for almost two centuries -- remains one of the oldest hotels on the island. A driveway leads through well maintained sub-tropical gardens featuring exotic plants not commonly native to the British Isles to an ornate wrought iron veranda typical of the early Victorian era. Stepping inside, the reception is a wonderfully roomy space blending old-time glamour with traditional British touches. A swathe of polished herringbone parquet flooring, a baby grand piano, and red velvet drapery complete the lovely scene. The ground floor bar and lounge decor follow a similarly light touch while plenty of black-and-white photographs and a real coal fire add some welcome homey elements. Even from the best vantage points, sea views are only partial from the main building, however just across the quiet road the hotel's Riviera Terrace is an extension of the gardens and provides a wonderful place to relax with a drink or picnic overlooking the English Channel.  

The hotel is located on a relatively quiet road in the Victorian seaside resort of Ventnor on the southwest coast of the Isle of Wight. The town center with its bric-a-brac shops, tea rooms, and restaurants is just five minutes away on foot, while the fine stretch of sandy beach of Ventnor Bay is around the same distance away. It's just over a half-hour drive to Ventnor from East Cowes -- the island's northern ferry terminal with connections from Southampton. Alternatively bus services connect via Newport and take around an hour.

The hotel's 52 rooms are decorated with a contemporary take on the English country house with plush toile de jouy fabrics, antique-style or smart modern furnishings, and fresh light tones -- all illuminated with chandelier lighting and classically styled sconces. Rooms are relatively spacious and some of those on higher-levels have partial views of Ventor Bay. Free Wi-Fi is available in the rooms, while flat-screen TVs and tea and coffee facilities also come as standard. Traditionally styled bathrooms are generally well-maintained with some superior rooms including roll-top, claw-footed tubs and bathrobes. While decor is largely well-finished, a few spots are showing signs of wear.

Food is a particular highlight at the Royal Hotel -- starting with an excellent buffet and cooked-to-order breakfast that includes smoked fish and poached eggs (it's often, but not always, included in the rate). The hotel's Appuldurcombe Room is considered one of the town's finest places to dine and usually in the form of a tasting or table d’hôte menu and an extensive wine list. Al fresco hamper picnics are available to be enjoyed on the Riviera Terrace overlooking the sea. There is also a small heated pool in the garden and a range of spa treatment are available in the hotel or a private cedar cabin with sea views a few minutes walk away. Wi-Fi is free throughout, though patchy in places, and while on-site parking is also free of charge, it can get full quickly.