The Isle of Wight is no longer overlooked for being the preserve of the family bucket and spade holiday. Sure, the sailors always knew about this fantastic island with its incredible varied coastline, and the family campers with their buckets and spades certainly knew about its reliable weather, and local foodies knew about it too, but for ages it flew under the radar. But then the music festival came to the island, and suddenly it started to get hip. Campsites got yurts and vintage camper vans, the foodie scene really hotted up, and seaside kitsch got cool. So now the best places to stay on the island are as eclectic a bunch as the visitors, from traditional old-fashioned B&Bs to chic guesthouses and elegant coastal hotels.
The best places to stay in the Isle of Wight are incredibly busy during the peak summer months, and almost impossible to book during the festival. So if you're planning a visit during July or August, do yourself a favour and plan well ahead.
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The Isle of Wight (Ventnor )
Entirely charming, quaint Saxon B&B offers a stay of total seclusion completely off the 'beaten-track'. Rooms boast a delicate, rustic French-style decor, featuring plush beds. Surrounding gardens and countryside make this a gentle and beautiful stay. Plus 3 self-catering barns.
The Isle of Wight (West Cowes)
Set in a 19th-century Grade II listed property, the quaint North House is situated on the coast of Cowes. Featuring many original features such as period fireplaces, the hotel also offers chic boutique accommodation with elegant furnishings. Sublime seafood served up. A lovely and intimate spot.
The Isle of Wight (Isle Of Wight)
A delightful rural inn set in a sleepy coastal village in the southern part of the island. Traditionally dressed rooms are both elegant and cosy with soft hues, sink into beds and plenty of light. Excellent pub food is served and there is endless beautiful countryside to be explored.
Seaview
An eccentric family run hotel in a fabulous setting - the 1930s with a ‘60s twist. Forget en suite bathrooms, but for families wanting a very relaxed seaside atmosphere at reasonable rates, with lots of friends to make, it's an experience. The antithesis of boutique.
The Isle of Wight (Fishbourne )
An atmospheric pub topped with a handful of light and airy rooms located in a peaceful spot right next to the Wightlink ferry port. The restaurant serves innovative British fare with an emphasis on local produce and seafood. A tranquil spot from which to explore the island.
Cowes
Albert Cottage Hotel is an excellent establishment on the outskirts of East Cowes. Each room has been individually decorated with aplomb and features ornate beds and antique furniture. The restaurant is superb. A great launchpad from which to explore the Isle of Wight.
Seaview
Just a short way from the centre of Seaview on the Isle of Wight and directly by Apply Beach, The Boathouse is a charming seaside hotel. The bedrooms are comfortable and airy, decorated with a pale palette. The pub is popular and the restaurant serves excellent seafood. A delightful place.
Yarmouth
Handsome, relaxed Georgian hotel in charming Yarmouth with great Solent views. Popular food, lovely bedrooms, some with antique panelling and private decks. Family friendly, a great base for sailing or exploring the Island.
Seaview
Friendly, stylish hub in the centre of charming Seaview, popular with locals. Boasting a busy terrace, two restaurants and a mix contemporary or chintzy bedrooms in various sizes, some with views. Great base for sailing or local exploring, 50 yards from the sea.
Ventnor
An enchanting clifftop villa with spectacular seaviews, in charming Ventnor. Lovely light and modern bedrooms with pampering bathrooms. Nearly all bedrooms have views, some with balconies.The fine dining restaurant uses local produce and experimental cooking. A chic stay.
The Isle of Wight (Ventnor)
An elegant hill top property boasting glorious sea views. Bright rooms mix contemporary and traditional styles with steel grey and white hues, heavily draped sash windows and luxurious bathrooms. A smart restaurant offers well executed British classics and there's a buzzy bar too.
Cowes (Isle of Wight)
A sophisticated hotel in Cowes old town where rooms are divided between the main house, lodge and poolside garden suites. The interiors are elegantly cosy with Chesterfield sofas and working fireplaces. There's a chic restaurant, plus a garden with firepit. A wonderful mix of modern and traditional.
The Isle of Wight (South East Coast)
Perched on the cliffs, this boutique retreat boasts sweeping sea views and a serene, secluded atmosphere. The interiors are elegant with vintage chandeliers, original fireplaces, and plush velvet furniture. Guests can enjoy landscaped gardens, a heated pool, and a tennis court. A picturesque escape.
